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If you’re planning your first trip to Tokyo, make sure you don’t miss Shibuya Sky.
Perched 229 meters above the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing, it’s easily one of the most instagrammed spots in the city. But is it overrated?
I’m happy to report that it definitely isn’t! Even though it was busy (as expected), the experience was incredibly organized, and the views were some of the best I’ve ever seen. Here is my full guide and everything you need to know to make your visit seamless!
Tips for Visiting Shibuya Sky
The most important thing to know is that tickets sell out fast for the good timeslots. If you show up on the day of, you will likely be turned away.
- When to Book: Currently, bookings open 14 days in advance at midnight Japan time. I highly recommend being on the site a few minutes before the release because there is often a queue. Check their website during your planning, just in case this timeline changes.
- Pro Tip: Do a “test run” on the website a day or two before your actual booking date just to get used to the interface.
- Keep in mind: If the weather is bad, the enclosed second-top floor will be open, but the popular top floor (rooftop) will be closed.
- How to Book: You can book directly on the Shibuya Sky website, but if you’d prefer to use Klook, you can click here and use my code ROADSANDROAMSKLOOK for a discount!
When is the Best Timeslot to Visit Shibuya Sky?
The most sought-after slots are around sunset, and for good reason! Watching the sun dip behind the Tokyo skyline (and catching a glimpse of Mt. Fuji if you’re lucky) is magical.
I recommend booking a slot about 30 to 45 minutes before sunset. This allows you to:
- See the city in the daylight.
- Watch the golden hour/sunset.
- Enjoy the “sparkle” of the Tokyo night lights.
They usually start letting people into the building about 15 to 30 minutes before your actual time slot, so it’s okay if you arrive a little early.
What Can You Bring to Shibuya Sky?
They are very strict about safety because the rooftop is open-air and can get quite windy. Before you head to the roof, they will guide you to a floor with lockers.
- Not Allowed: Bags, food, drinks, tripods, or hats.
- Allowed: Your phone and a camera (as long as it has a neck strap or can fit into your pocket). We asked the security guard if our GoPro Hero 12 was allowed (we didn’t bring the tripod), and they said it was fine.
Locker Tip: You will need a 100 yen coin for the locker. Don’t worry, you’ll get it back once you return your key! We only took our phones and a GoPro to the top and felt that was plenty.
What to Expect Inside Shibuya Sky
Once you’ve stowed your belongings, you’ll head up the “Transition Pod” elevator to the Sky Stage (the rooftop). It has neat effects during the ascent (similar to “Top of the Rock” in New York City if you’ve ever been there).
While you’ll see queues sometimes for the “best” photo spots, like the glass corners of the viewing area, the space is actually quite large. You shouldn’t have a problem finding a spot for great photos without waiting in a massive line.
One of my favourite parts was the amount of seating available. It’s a great place to take a break from the chaos of Shibuya, sit down, and just relax while you watch the world go by. Since the area includes a working, accessible helipad for emergencies, there’s also a large amount of “green” space (astroturf) right in the middle. Not crowded at all!
What Can You See From Shibuya Sky?
Be on the lookout for these points of interest (some are only visible in clear weather):
- Mt. Fuji: On a clear day (especially in the morning or during a crisp winter sunset), you can see the snow-capped peak of Japan’s most famous mountain to the southwest.
- Tokyo Tower: Look for the iconic red and white lattice tower to the east. It looks particularly cool once it’s lit up at night. This is the one that’s shaped like the Eiffel Tower in France.
- Tokyo Skytree: Further in the distance to the northeast, you’ll see the tallest structure in Japan poking through the skyline.
- Shibuya Scramble Crossing: Look straight down from the “Sky Edge” corner to see the world’s busiest intersection. It looks like a colony of ants moving in perfect sync!
- Yoyogi Park & Meiji Jingu: To the north, you’ll see a massive “green lung” in the middle of the concrete jungle. This is where the famous Meiji Shrine is hidden among the trees. This reminded us of seeing Central Park from above in NYC.
- Shinjuku Skyline: You can’t miss the cluster of massive skyscrapers to the north, including the “Docomo Tower” which looks a bit like the Empire State Building.
- Japan National Stadium: Look for the stunning wood-slatted stadium used for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
- Tokyo Bay: On very clear days, you can even see the water and the cranes of the Tokyo port in the distance.
Our Experience: Is Shibuya Sky Worth It?
I was a bit worried this would feel like a “tourist trap,” but it was actually a very organized and peaceful experience.
After you’ve had your fill of the roof, there are escalators that take you down to a second level called the Sky Gallery. This is an enclosed viewing space that also features a bar and some food, like hot dogs. This second floor wasn’t busy at all when we went, and it was a fantastic, quiet place to watch the Shibuya Scramble Crossing from above several times.
How Much Time Do You Need at Shibuya Sky?
I would recommend budgeting about 1.5 to 2 hours. This gives you enough time to get through the locker process, enjoy the outdoor views, take plenty of photos, and grab a drink without feeling rushed.
Shibuya Sky was such a highlight of our trip! If you’re heading to Tokyo, I definitely recommend making this a priority. I’ll be posting my full Japan itinerary soon, so make sure to keep an eye on my blog!
Are you adding Shibuya Sky to your Tokyo list? Leave a comment below if you have any questions!
Watch my TikTok on Shibuya Sky here:
@roadsandroams Here’s everything you need to know about booking and visiting Shibuya Sky in Tokyo, Japan! #shibuyasky #shibuya #tokyo #japantips #shibuyacrossing ♬ original sound - Taylor | travel creator
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