The Battle of the Views: Shibuya Sky vs. Tokyo Skytree vs. Tokyo Tower
Tokyo is endless. To truly understand its scale, you need to see it from above. But Tokyo has too many observation decks. If you only have time for one, which should you choose?
- Tokyo Skytree: The tallest?
- Tokyo Tower: The classic icon?
- Shibuya Sky: The Instagram king?
As your friend, I have visited all of them. Here is my honest breakdown to help you decide.
1. The Trendy Winner: “SHIBUYA SKY”
If you want the best photo for your Instagram, stop reading and book this. Located on top of the “Shibuya Scramble Square” building, this is the newest major deck.
- The Good: It is Open Air. No glass reflection ruining your photos (mostly). Standing on the roof with the wind in your hair, looking down at the famous Scramble Crossing, is exhilarating. The “Glass Corner” photo spot is legendary.
- The Bad: It is incredibly popular. You MUST book tickets online weeks in advance, especially for the sunset slot. If it rains, the roof closes.
- Friend’s Verdict: #1 Choice for young travelers and couples. Aim for 4:30 PM to see the sunset.
2. The Classic Romance: “TOKYO TOWER”
Before Skytree, this was the symbol of Tokyo. It looks like the Eiffel Tower, but red and white.
- The Good: It has a warm, retro, romantic vibe. Because it is in the center of the city, the view feels “closer” to the buildings.
- The Best Part: Looking at Tokyo Tower is actually better than looking from it. But standing on the “Top Deck” (250m) still feels special.
- Friend’s Verdict: Go here for the “Vibes.” It is iconic. Afterward, walk to Zojo-ji Temple right next door for a stunning photo of the temple and tower together.
3. The Gentle Giant: “TOKYO SKYTREE”
It is the tallest tower in the world (634m). It is massive.
- The Good: You are SO high up that Tokyo looks like a toy city (SimCity). On a clear day, the view of Mt. Fuji is fantastic. It also has a huge shopping mall (Solamachi) and aquarium at the base.
- The Bad: It is a bit far from the city center (Asakusa area). It is always crowded. And because it is so high, you feel a bit detached from the city energy.
- Friend’s Verdict: Great for families (combine it with the aquarium) or if you want to say “I climbed the tallest tower.”
4. The Budget Hero: “Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building”
Want to save money for sushi? Go to Shinjuku. The government building (Tocho) has observatories on the 45th floor.
- The Price: FREE. (Yes, $0).
- The Good: It’s free. Did I mention it’s free? It also has a cool piano and a souvenir shop.
- The Bad: There is often a line for the elevator. It’s not as high or open as the others.
- Friend’s Verdict: If you are in Shinjuku anyway, go. It’s the best free view in the city.
Summary: Which one is for you?
- “I want the coolest photo:” -> Shibuya Sky (Book in advance!).
- “I want the classic Tokyo feeling:” -> Tokyo Tower.
- “I want to go as high as possible / Family Trip:” -> Skytree.
- “I spent all my money on Wagyu:” -> Metropolitan Govt Building.
No matter which one you choose, seeing this neon ocean stretching to the horizon is a moment you will never forget.
Want to capture the perfect Tokyo skyline photo but don’t have a professional camera? Our Walking Tours often include secret spots where you can get amazing views of the towers without paying for a ticket! Let us show you the angles.
