Tokyo, a city of dazzling modernity intertwined with traces of tradition, never ceases to surprise its visitors. The newest attraction that captures this essence is the Sky Observatory, located atop the Shibuya Scramble Square Tower.
Towering above the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, this observation deck offers an unparalleled view of Tokyo’s vast expanse. Before you set foot on your next Tokyo adventure, here’s everything you need to know about this modern marvel.
How to get there
Located in Shibuya City, the Shibuya Scramble Square and Sky Observatory is relatively easy to access given Shibuya’s position as a major transportation hub.
You can get there:
- Via the Shonan Shinjuku line, JR Yamanote Line, or the Narita Express (ideal if you’re coming to or from the airport): Get off at Shibuya Station. The Scramble Square Tower is a short walk from the station’s Hachiko exit.
- Via Tokyo Metro: Multiple lines such as the Ginza, Hanzomon, and Fukutoshin stop at Shibuya. From the metro station, signs will guide you to the tower.
The Shonan Shinjuku, Yamanote, and Narita Express lines are covered by your Japan Rail Pass, making the trip cost-efficient and convenient.
Features and what to see
Shibuya Sky Observatory is located on the 47h floor of the Scramble Square Tower, the highest skyscraper in the Shibuya district. The tower, which was completed in 2019 and boasts a giant screen on the facade, is directly connected to Shibuya Station in its lower floors.
First, take an elevator to Sky Gate on the 14th floor. Here, you’ll find the ticket booths as well as a transparent glass floor where you can watch trains departing from Shibuya Station.
Next, ascend to the Sky Gallery on escalators encased in a futuristic tunnel lined with atmospheric lighting and video screens. Once on the 46th floor, you have to leave all belongings, except cameras and jackets, in a locker room (for a 100 yen fee). You can then step out onto the 2,500m² observation deck.
From up high at 229 meters above sea-level, you can take in incredible 360-degree unobstructed vistas of Tokyo. One of the observatory’s highlights is the Sky Edge, a circular walkway that lights up in different colors, providing excellent photo opportunities.
You’ll also find a synthetic lawn that doubles as a helicopter airstrip, and net hammocks on the western side. There’s also a stylishly furnished corridor that provides exceptional views over the Tokyo Olympic Stadium and other major attractions.
The Roof Shibuya Sky Bar
A stunning rooftop bar, Roof Shibuya Sky Bar is located opposite the Sky Edge and behind the helipad. It’s open to anyone who has a ticket for the observation deck.
However, we advise making a reservation in advance to avoid disappointment. You can book a 50-minute maximum time slot for at least 2 people, with 2 kinds of experience available:
- Roof seat and 2 drinks set: 4,900 per person (including Sky Observatory admission fee) for a sofa reservation, a snack, and 2 drinks (excluding champagne).
- Roof seat and champagne set: 5,900 per person (including Sky Observatory admission fee) for a sofa reservation, a snack, and a bottle of champagne.
However, even if you don’t have a reservation, you can still sit at the bar counter and order a drink ‘à la carte’. The Sky Bar opening hours are usually 4 pm to 10 pm (with last orders at 9:30 pm), but it may close without notice if there are bad weather conditions.
Opening times and admission fees
The Shibuya Sky observation deck opening hours are from 9am to 11pm. It’s open every day, except for January 1.
You should give yourself 45 to 90 minutes for your visit to Shibuya Sky. The last admission is at 10pm.
You can buy tickets at the admissions counter in the tower (according to availability) at the following prices at the time of publication:
- Adults: 2,500 yen
- Middle and high school students: 2,000 yen
- Elementary school pupils: 1,200 yen
- Children (3 to 5-year-old): 700 yen
However, you can save up to 200 yen if you buy your tickets online in advance at the Shibuya Scramble Square website: The online discounted prices are as follows:
- Adults: 2,200 yen
- Middle and high school students: 1,700 yen
- Elementary school pupils: 1,000 yen
- Children aged 3-5: 600 yen
Children under 3 enter free of charge. Half-price tickets are available to visitors with disabilities.
Please be aware that if you buy your tickets online, you are allocated a specific date and time slot. You can only visit the deck at this designated moment.