Shibuya Sky: Tokyo's Rooftop Observatory Ultimate Guide 2025

Soaring 229m above the world's busiest scramble crossing, Shibuya Sky must be a popular destination you cannot miss when traveling to Tokyo, offering a sweeping panorama of Tokyo and the Shibuya crossing view. Discover 360° city views, golden hour photography secrets, and essential visitor tips for Japan's most Instagrammable attraction.

Experience Tokyo from 229m at Shibuya Sky! Book sunset tickets, avoid crowds & capture iconic Shibuya Scramble views. Opening hours, photo spots, and booking hacks are included.

Shibuya Sky Highlights

1. Sky Stage (Roof Top): Iconic Views

Standing at 47 above Shibuya, visitors can enjoy a 750m² open-air platform with transparent walkways and helicopter landing pad views of Shinjuku skyscrapers. With a wide vista, Sky Stage is seen as the best spot for golden hour photography.

At the glass corners, "Edge of the Sky", photographers can get a magnificent cityscape of Tokyo (no tripods allowed). Aside from that, people can lie in Cloud Hammocks for aerial lounging. And let Geo Compass give you directions to some landmarks in Tokyo.

2. Sky Gallery (46F)

On the 46th, tourists can interact with digital art installations in the Sky Gallery, where they can also appreciate the city views by walking through panoramic windows. For tech enthusiasts, you can venture into its digital art space, and some souvenir shops with exclusive Shibuya Sky merchandise provide alternatives for your gifts.

3. Sky Gate (45F)

Glass elevator with LED light show offers access to observation decks from the 14th floor to the 45th floor. Some ingenuity used in the transition pod elevators brings an exhilarating ascending experience for passengers. Before entering the observatory, remember to store your luggage in lockers. Only phones and cameras are allowed to be brought.

Best Time to Visit Shibuya Sky

Golden Hour (16:30-18:30)

Shibuya Sky Sunset offers an enchanting time for visitors to take an amazing shot. Sunset views over Tokyo Tower prepare a stunning treat for your eyes, and the whole city presents a canvas dyed in warm tones. When sunset fades away, do not miss blue-hour photography opportunities!

Nighttime (19:00-23:00)

When night falls, there may be fewer crowds. The twinkling starry night offers the backdrop for the illuminated city skyline. The anticipated "Crossing Light" synchronized light show promises you a magical urban view. At this time, enjoying a romantic dinner, dotted by city lights, to have an incredible night will be one of the best things to do in Tokyo.

Seasonal Highlights

Various seasonal events are hosted on the deck, and the themes and ornaments vary accordingly. During the time for cherry blossoms (late March-April), you can capture this pink romance. In November, the Autumn foliage will dot the Shibuya Sky with vibrant colors. From December to January, winter illuminations offer the highlight in the pure white snowscape.

How to Get to Shibuya Sky

From Tokyo Station

Take a ride on the JR Yamanote Line to Shibuya Station (30 mins) and follow the signs to Shibuya Scramble Square.

A 9-minute ride on the Chiyoda Line and transfer at Omotesando Station to the Ginza Line and get off at Shibuya Station after 2 minutes. Exit B6 and walk a minute.

Local Transport Options

Shibuya Tower is directly connected to Shibuya Station and easily accessible by Tokyo Metro Ginza, Chiyoda Lines, and Keio Inokashira Line.

Shibuya Scramble Tower is connected by many streets and avenues, so you can also choose to reach the tower via taxi. There are parking lots for visitors and some dedicated parking spots for the disabled.

Walking Directions

Walk out of Exit B6 from Shibuya Station and take about 10-15 minutes to the main entrance of Shibuya Sky Tower.

Practical Guide for Visiting Shibuya Sky

For your better exploration, here we are preparing some Shibuya Sky tips for your reference.

Shibuya Sky Ticket Information

Type Admission at or before 2:59 pm Admission after 3:00 pm Adults (12 and older) 2,700 yen 3,400 yen Children 1,200 yen

Tip:
Check the Shibuya Sky official website for more details on tickets

Shibuya Sky Opening Hours

Business hours of admission (last admission at 9:20 pm), Business hours of the ticket counter (14th floor): 10:00 am-10:30 pm , 10:00 am-9:20 pm

Photography Guide

Shibuya Sky provides the best spots for rooftop photography so that shutterbugs can gain an incredible shot!

Lying on the Cloud Hammock under a clear and wide sky, after you are tired of strolling around, can be the most relaxing thing during your time in Tokyo. Even when visiting Shibuya at night, tourists appreciate the starry night.

Ascending via the glass escalator to the Sky Stage presents you with a panoramic view of Tokyo, which has recently become a hot photo spot.

Standing at the Sky edge, a glass corner, you will gain a sweeping cityscape of Tokyo, which is definitely an unparalleled experience during your Tokyo tour.

Noted that some prohibited items, including selfie sticks, and large bags (store them in advance in adjacent lockers). There are lockers on the rooftop and 46th floor for storing items (size: 320*375*430). In addition, drones are only allowed in restricted airspace.

Dress Code Recommendations

Check the weather forecast before heading to Shibuya Sky Tower. Dress according to the weather on that day. Notably, it will be colder and windier at 230m height in winter. Take a coat or a windbreaker if you ascend to the Shibuya Sky. Wearing comfortable walking shoes and preparing yourself in formal attire for dining areas are recommended.

Shibuya Sky vs Tokyo Skytree

The same as Shibuya Sky, one of the most popular Tokyo attractions, Tokyo Skytree has an observation deck and provides a 360-degree view of Tokyo as well. Here we list some disparities between these two popular destinations.

Feature Shibuya Sky Tokyo Skytree Height 229m 634m Views Shibuya Crossing Mt Fuji Best Time Sunset/night Daytime Entrance Fee ¥2,700 ¥3,100 Unique Feature Helicopter pad World's tallest tower

Attractions Nearby

Shibuya Crossing & Shibuya Center Street

Shibuya Crossing is seen as the most crowded and busiest intersection in the world. When the traffic light turns green, thousands of people go across the street, and the crossing is overwhelmed by crowds. Approximately 3,000 pedestrians go to and fro in two minutes during its peak time, which is so spectacular that many shutterbugs come to capture the moment.

Through the Shibuya Crossing, what heave in sight is Shibuya Center Street, also known as Shibuya Center Shopping Street, lined with an array of department stores, eateries, karaoke, as well as some amusement parks. Noted for chic culture for youth, clothing in the window display leads the way in fashion style, which is also regarded as one of the most iconic landmarks of Shibuya.

Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho

In the alleyway next to the Shibuya Station train line, there are about 40 cozy and nostalgic izakayas and gastropubs. From home cooking to traditional soju, people can sip a drink after feasting on Japanese food, even for lone customers. Restaurants and hubs’ opening hours vary by every store, but they generally run from 6:00 pm to 12:00 pm, and some of them will operate after midnight.

Miyashita Park

Not only is Miyashita Park a cultural site, but it is also a commercial complex, with a top-floor park and hotel. About 90 stores with a unique Shibuya style can fill your shopping bag at one time. From shopping to sports and from gourmet to accommodation, tourists can gain full enjoyment.

Hachiko Statue

Near the Shibuya Scramble Crossing lies the Hachiko Dog Statue, famous as the most loyal dog in Japan. This statue unveils a nationally known story like this. An Akita dog waited for its owner from work in Shibuya Station every day. However, the owner later passed away, which did not stop him from waiting at the station. And the dog still kept doing this for 9 years until he died. The statue was erected and served as a popular meeting point.

Cat Street Tokyo

Between Shibuya and Harajuku is the Cat Street (Kyu-Shibuyagawa Yuho-Doro). A diversity of boutique shops, exclusive brands, and vintage shops are lined up in this promenade, which is the reason why it is recognized as the cradle of fashion. In addition to satisfying your shopping demands, a variety of cafes and food stalls can also fill your belly.

FAQs about Shibuya Sky

1. Can I enter Shibuya Sky later than my ticket hours?

Enter according to the designated time on your ticket. If you are late, you need to wait for the admission time, or your admission may be refused.

2. Can you eat in Shibuya Sky?

Neither food nor drink is allowed to be taken into Shibuya Sky. But you can have a meal in restaurants inside Shibuya Sky.

3. When do Shibuya Sky tickets go on sale?

The Shibuya Sky tickets are sold at midnight in Japan time, and tickets are available two weeks earlier than the admission date.

4. Is Shibuya Sky worth it?

As one of the most popular Tokyo attractions, with a breathtaking vista of Tokyo’s cityscape and thrilling tech experience, Shibuya Sky definitely deserves your visit.

5. How long does it take to get inside Shibuya Sky?

15-30 minutes are needed to get inside Shibuya Sky.

6. Can I enter Shibuya Sky without a reservation?

Tourists need to purchase an entrance ticket to access Shibuya Sky. Booking online is advised; in this way, you can also enjoy a discount. If you don't want to Shibuya Sky reservation, you can choose to line up at the counter with limited walk-ups with 90+ min queues.

7. Is Shibuya Sky better at night or day?

Viewing Shibuya Sky at night will be better than during the day, presenting a lovely night view of Tokyo.

8. Are backpacks allowed?

No. Bags, hats, food, drinks, etc., are not allowed to be taken in. Visitors can put them in lockers in advance.

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