1685 Weekly Services. Shibuya Sky will get the heart pounding in a different way with a rooftop thats open to the sky and glass walls. Well, as I alluded above, it opened in the 1950s, during which it was built as a broadcasting tower. Fuji on a clear day. It makes for fantastic views, but this means its not the best choice for people who dont do well with heights see more on that below. Difference Between Shibuya Sky vs. Tokyo Tower vs. Tokyo Skytree It's been years since I've been to Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree, but the main difference is that these two are enclosed observation decks, while Shibuya Sky is completely outside. Formerly known as Sky Circus, this observation deck on the 60th floor of Ikebukuros Sunshine City underwent a major revamp and reopened in early 2023 as Tembo Park. In my personal opinion as someone who doesnt like heights, the answer is unequivocally Tokyo Tower. -. Dj vu! Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. With its walls of glass, you can take in the beautiful cityscape from high above. Located the middle of a modern commercial center, Tokyo Skytrees primary function is that of a television and radio broadcast site for the Kanto region. Here are some observation decks that beat both, in my opinion: If this article about the Tokyo Skytree vs Tokyo Tower debate has interested you, youll probably also find my broader article about the best view of Tokyo fascinating. Do you need to book in advance to visit Shibuya Sky? The rooftop also features hammocks for cloud watching and an observation compass to help you identify major landmarks in the distance such as Tokyo Tower, Japan NationalStadiumand even Mt Fuji (on a clear day). The reviews making mention of booking tickets ahead of time are very true. Luckily, this must happen enough because they can loan you a temporary neck strap thats pretty much a red rope that you tie onto your camera. These tickets can also be bought at the 14th-floor ticket counter on the day of your visit: SHIBUYA SKY entrance ticket Shibuya Sky: nice city views, not too high, good views of Mt. Its free to take in both of these structures from ground level. There are a couple of other options with views available. Sky Bridge: A glass-bottomed walkway that connects the indoor Sky Gallery to the outdoor Sky Stage. Thats me up there with my slightly nervous smile. Located on the rooftop of the shiny new Shibuya Scramble Square tower building right beside Shibuya Station, Shibuya Sky is Japan's highest rooftop observatory deck and offers a sweeping 360-degree panoramic view over Tokyo as far as the eye can see. Overall, Shibuya Sky is a fantastic place to visit for anyone who wants to see Tokyo from a different perspective. I'd do the free one at the city building if you want to do 2. I bought my ticket online and paid 1800 which at that time was around $13 USD which is crazy cheap for an observation deck! Make planning your Japan trip that little bit easier. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Japlanease is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program designed to provide a way for websites to earn advertising revenue by linking to Amazon sites worldwide. Standing 229 meter above sea-level, it offers an exciting new panorama on the surroundings and especially on the famous Shibuya Crossing. If you want to take a picture on this corner, especially during sunset, you might want to get there even earlier. (You do need to wait to take pix at the popular corners.) In an ideal world, youd be able to visit both as each has its own unique features. The tower has a three-story observatory at 350 metres. You could also spend the afternoon at Tokyos acclaimed sights after your visit to Tokyo Skytree. Emily Wilson. Immediately below the outdoor observation deck is an indoor observation deck. The observation deck is situated 229 meters above sea level and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Tokyo. 90% of travelers recommend this experience. The other towers were built with a utilitarian purpose (broadcasting, telecoms, and offices), tourist areas were an add on and so they arent actually that good for pictures. Mori Tower: best night views of tokyo tower (before you go, check online if the open air sky deck is opened that day though) Skytree: too high, details are getting lost I wont leave a single stone unturned! 91% of travelers recommend this experience. Tokyos skyline might be Japans most sprawling and famous, but its not the only impressive one in the country. Skytree also offers stamps and has the benefit of a huge mall downstairs which includes some fantastic character shops. There are exhibitions on popular programmes and character goods shops, but most people come here for the large orb-shaped observation deck. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Tokyo Metro. Which offers the best view of Tokyo? Certain times of the day do sell out so if that time slot is gone for the day, you will not be able to purchase it over the counter. Photo Courtesy: https://www.shibuya-scramble-square.com/en/ (Screenshot by Author). Youll see more detail from the top of Tokyo Tower. Taxi from Tokyo Skytree to Shibuya Crossing. While Tokyo Tower opened to the public long ago in 1958, Tokyo Skytree is much newer, having been completed in 2012. If youre reading this section, youve probably also seen a picture on Instagram or TikTok taken of people posing on some steps with Tokyo Tower above them and wondered where it was. You can buy tickets online or at the entrance (You may have to queue up) Book via the Shibuya Sky website or easily with Klook (which has some great reviews and photos) Entrance is 2,000 yen or 1,800 if you purchase online If the sky is clear enough you can see Mount Fuji from all three viewpoints but that can be a big if. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Tokyo Skytree is taller than Tokyo Tower, but Tokyo Tower is probably more iconic than Tokyo Skytree. Shibuya Sky is a place that I think only became popular on social media during the pandemic and so it was a natural place to put on our itinerary when we came to visit Tokyo. For those who want to learn more about Tokyo, there is a digital art display called Sky Canvas. 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Spacious observatory space and a nice roof bar are excellent for soaking in the expansive view of Tokyo city. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Rome2Rio displays up to date schedules, route maps . The Shibuya Scramble Square building is directly connected to the Shibuya Station, one of Tokyos busiest transport hubs. If youre in Osaka, for example, ascend the Umeda Sky building at night to get an amazing view of that citys skyscrapers. If youre looking for the name of the structure some people call the Tokyo Eiffel Tower, its simply Tokyo Tower. 98% of travelers recommend this experience. Tokyo has a reputation for being a city full of tall buildings - the most famous of the lot being Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower. Worse than that, all the visitors were required to use the observation deck operator's photographer and pay a fee of JPY1,500 pp for a photo at the hottest photo spot. Tokyo Skytree has a pretty convenient location. })(document, 'script', '//cf.bstatic.com/static/affiliate_base/js/flexiproduct.js'); To make the most of your visit to the Shibuya area, consider exploring some of these popular attractions and activities nearby: Shibuya Sky is a great place to visit for those who want to see a panoramic view of Tokyo. Taken in the d, Temple of Edfu, Edfu, Egypt (5.21.2023) p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); It is important to note that Shibuya Sky can be very crowded, especially during peak hours. However, because it is so tall the details can you see with the naked eye are fairly limited. Surrounding Attractions of Tokyo Tower 5. Shibuya Sky Review: Tokyos Most Amazing Rooftop Observation Deck, Abu Simbel, Aswan, Egypt (5.20.23) To avoid crowds and enjoy a more leisurely experience, try visiting on weekdays and during off-peak hours. Japan trains High School Students (15-17 years old): 1,500 (approximately $13) Tokyo Skytree, on the other hand, is in Sumida, close to the Asakusa district and easily accessible by trains. The Shibuya Sky Observation Deck is easily accessible via public transportation. To avoid long lines, it is recommended to check the weather and plan your visit accordingly. 360-degree panoramic view of the city, including Tokyo Skytree, Mount Fuji, and the Shibuya Crossing. . The downside of this is that if youre trying to visit at sunset when its particularly pretty, youll need to book almost as soon as the tickets go on sale (a month in advance) and may have to queue for pictures in the best spot once youre up there! Experience Offered Inside Tokyo Tower 3. Again, its a good idea to book skip-the-line passes so youre not stuck in a queue for ages and to ensure that you do get in. Tokyo Skytree | Attractions in Oshiage, Tokyo Recommended option Bus, subway 36 min Take the bus from to 08T08 / . Its also the worlds second tallest structure after Dubais Burj Khalifa. Shibuya Sky() This bar offers breathtaking views which can be enjoyed from sofa seats or standing areas. 100% of travelers recommend this experience. For good reason, too: the TMG's observatories are completely free of charge. Thanks. The observation deck may close during bad weather, so its best to plan accordingly. I absolutely knew that you are required to have a neck strap for your camera if you want to bring it up to the roof. The address of the tower is 22-2, Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan. Pre booked our tickets and we still queued for 35 minutes to enter, only to be told that the rooftop was closed and only the indoor observation deck was available. One Day Highlights Tour of Tokyo including Shibuya Sky Tickets, Tokyo Full-Day Instagram Highlights Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide, Private Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 7 persons), Kart experience in Shinjuku drive metropolitan area **IDP must**, Tokyo Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide, Travel Tokyo with Your Own Personal Photographer, Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Food Walking Tour in Tokyo, Tokyo Private Chauffeur Driving Sightseeing Tour - English Speaking Driver, Tokyo Private Custom Walking Tour with Local Friendly Guide, Itasha trip to famous car meet up spot Daikoku Parking, Tokyo Skytree Admission Ticket (Floor 350 + 450), Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Culture Walking Tour. You can read more about the restrictions here. The Tokyo SkyTree stands at 634 metres, making it the tallest structure in Japan. Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information. I was only planning to stay for 30 minutes but I probably stayed over an hour. Tokyo Tower vs. Tokyo Skytree: Why Age Reigns Supreme - Japan Journeys The observation deck also features a roof bar where you can enjoy a drink while taking in the view. From clothing and accessories to stationery and home goods, youll find a diverse selection of items to commemorate your visit. Its a short train ride away from Asakusa and the temple Senso-ji which is definitely going to be on your must-see list and that makes it easier to combine with other sights than Tokyo Tower which is a bit out on its own. On days when the weather is good, you even get to see Mt Fuji in the distance! To help you make the most of your Shibuya Sky Observation Deck visit, weve compiled an in-depth look at each section and notable features, including the bar and other attractions. The deck is an outdoor space that offers a unique perspective on the city and its surroundings. The glass barriers on the Sky Stage are designed with small gaps to accommodate camera lenses, making it easy to snap clear, unobstructed photos. The second benefit is that theres a separate expedited line for people that have pre-purchased a ticket. 8 Best Observation Decks in Tokyo - The Tower Info On entry I was told that not only was the champagne package cancelled, I wasnt even able to access the normal sky experience along with everyone else. I found this strap that comes with my purse that I looped onto my camera and kind of used as a wrist strap praying that they will let me up with it. Booking.com HELLO! 1. (Or at least it does to memaybe it resembles something else to you.). The latest sightseeing spot in Tokyo. I also hated the way you transition from floor to floor at Skytree it was an escalator or stairs going down towards windows and, for me, thats an absolute no-no (Shibuya Sky is also pretty horrible for this.) I booked the Shibuya rooftop Sky champagne package and was aware that it might be closed in cases of bad weather. Children (4-5 years old): 300 (approximately $2.50) On the way out we walked through the Sky Gallery, which was interesting, but we didnt spend much time there. April 25, 2021. The obvious reason is that its just not as tall as Skytree but, it also has a smaller circumference which means you can see more without having to move too far away from the wall which makes me feel more secure than walking around a big wide building. My travel articles have appeared in publications including The Australian, RAC Horizons, Jetstar Magazine, Sainsburys Magazine and more. We spent a lot of time standing around. Shibuya Sky is a remarkable high-rise building that gives you a unique experience of exploring Tokyo from above. Im not really sure if what I did was allowed or not, but I brought my Sony A6600 camera with my 11mm, 35mm, and 55-210mm lenses. Yes! Visitors can enjoy the view from the deck during the day or at night, when the city lights up and creates a magical atmosphere. Tokyo Skytree is available from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. every night, with the final admission starting at 8 p.m. Overall - if I knew someone was going to Tokyo, I'd recommend they come to Shibuya Sky, whether during the day or at night. We recommend booking Shibuya Sky tours ahead of time to secure your spot. For that Shibuya Sky wins because of its location right in the middle of the city, youll see more sights you might recognize plus you see Skytree and Tokyo Tower which are two of the most iconic buildings in Tokyo not seeing either of them makes the skyline feel kind of empty. Abu Simbel was such a trek to get to! There are lockers to keep your bags and umbrellas. 55 comments Top Eswyft 3 yr. ago I also love city views, I wouldn't do both. The downside is that it can get incredibly busy. Hew Lee Yee Klook Travel Curator Which of the two landmark towers in Japan to visit? It was fun, not too terrifying as its not that high, and I loved all the little touches like the shrine inside. Subscribe to email updates. Located on the 52nd floor of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, this observatory provides an impressive 360-degree birds-eye view of Tokyo, including landmarks like Shinjuku Gyoen, the National Diet Building, Tokyo Tower and the Skytree. All photos (291) Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology, this interactive exhibit allows visitors to engage with a virtual representation of Shibuya. I could not stand anywhere near as close to the window at Skytree. The challenger, Tokyo Skytree, holds dominion over the East. It has personality and they make the most of that with cute icons and other kid-friendly stuff. Entrance is on the ground floor of Shibuya Scramble Square mall and you just need to present your qr code at the entrance if tickets were purchased in advance. Since its located in the middle of the business district, your view will consist mainly of the surrounding metropolitan district. Of course, if thats not an option (or you simply dont want to do it), the reasons Ive provided within this article will help you make a decision between these two icons. Many teenagers though are going to want to go to Shibuya Sky to get the iconic pictures from the stunning escalator in the sky (see picture in the Instagram section below) that theyve seen on TikTok! Visitors should also be aware that the observation deck can be quite windy, so its best to dress appropriately. 2-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya 150-0002 Tokyo Prefecture, $$ - $$$ Bar Pub Vegetarian Friendly, $$ - $$$ Brew Pub Cafe International, $$ - $$$ Barbecue Korean Gluten Free Options, $$ - $$$ Japanese Asian Vegetarian Friendly, Points of Interest & Landmarks Shopping Malls, This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. First, its a little bit cheaper. 5 2 Reviews Follow Share View photos (4) Shibuya Sky (Photo: Kakidai / CC BY-SA 4.0) Shibuya Sky is an important part of the Tokyo skyline and, with its 229 meters, leaves an unforgettable impression on its visitors. Experience Offered Inside Tokyo Skytree 2. Another feature is the Sky Edge, which is an outdoor terrace that provides visitors with an unobstructed view of Tokyo. Some of these photo spots include a giant Shibuya Sky logo and a replica of the Hachiko statue. Tokyo Skytree vs. Tokyo Tower: Which One Has A Better View? Tickets cost 220 - 250 and the journey takes 31 min. Thanks to its slanted windows designed to reduce light reflection, you can enjoy a close view over Shinjuku with Mt Fuji in the background on clear days. I dislike heights and yet, I make myself go up tall buildings as I dont like the fear to beat me. Around the base of Tokyo SkyTree is also a large shopping complex called Solamachi. 12 Oct 2017 Home What's The Difference Between Tokyo Tower And Tokyo Skytree? Words, images and design 2018-2023 Robert Schrader, All rights reserved. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The Sky Stage boasts a wooden deck with seating areas, glass barriers for unobstructed photo opportunities, and an open design that allows visitors to feel immersed in the cityscape. Thanks for subscribing! Top ways to experience Shibuya Sky and nearby attractions One Day Highlights Tour of Tokyo including Shibuya Sky Tickets 15 They have stamps that kids can collect if theyre using a stamp book. Shibuya Sky because its in the middle of all the bright lights it also allows you to see both Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree all lit up. Granted, it was a Monday so maybe it wasnt as busy as a weekend but I got the time slot that I wanted. Personally, Im not sure Id have got up to the roof and if I did, I may not have got back down! My name is Helen Foster and Im a journalist and author. To the right of that (on the screen at least) is a marker for Tokyo Tower Station Parking thats the steps. Very disappointed! Having finally got up Tokyo Tower and Skytree on our latest trip, we realized they all have their selling points and so, weve decided to give suggestions for the type of traveler you might be. I was there opening day by fluke. So if you have a flexible schedule, I would continuously just check the weather in Tokyo and near Mt. Tokyo Tower is prettiest from the outside, but if youre going to shoot pics for the gram, go to Shibuya Sky. It made my knees sway a bit but, if you hold on to the railing and close your eyes or look at the floor, its fine. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. With this being said, there are other things to keep in mind, such as the fact that Tokyo SkyTree is higher and offers a better view. Resembling a giant spaceship, this free observation deck is located on the 25th floor of the Bunkyo Civic Center in central Tokyo. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Kinnotorikara Tokyo Shibuya Center Street, Umegaoka Sushi No Midori Sohonten Shibuya, Tokyu Tokyo Metro Shibuya Station Tourist Center. Its been years since Ive been to Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree, but the main difference is that these two are enclosed observation decks, while Shibuya Sky is completely outside. Should You Visit Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower? - Japan Starts Here As I mentioned in the introduction, an essential first step to beginning the Tokyo Tower vs Skytree is realizing that these are two different towers. Read our. Tokyo has a reputation for being a city full of tall buildings - the most famous of the lot being Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower. To put things in perspective, Tokyo Tower is 250 meters high at the tallest point you can visit. Hello, can I bring Mirrorless camera(with neck strap) to the observation deck? Shibuya Sky | Attractions in Shibuya, Tokyo - Time Out