We finally went to Shibuya Sky in December after planning it for almost 2 years. We planned to go there several times in the past but our schedules did not match and it was mostly sold-out. Sometimes, the weather also had a way of interrupting our plans so we had to cancel twice. The stars aligned this time around so we finally got to booking 2 tickets for the 5:40 PM slot, which is already pretty dark, enough to see the glimmering lights of Shibuya at night.
Booking and cost
We made a reservation in advance through KLOOK. I only had good experiences in the past booking through this platform and their agents are very helpful with whatever we needed in the past. The evening ticket was around 3,400 yen per person, and for two people we paid roughly 7,000 yen in total. Booking ahead is important because walk-in slots are limited, especially in the evening. I actually consider us very lucky to be able to get tickets at that time as those hours get booked very quickly. I was really looking forward to going there with my husband, despite having been to multiple observation decks not just in Japan but other countries as well.
Arrival time and crowd level
Since it was winter, it was already dark by the time we got to the top. We were worried it might feel gloomy or cloudy, but the weather turned out to be perfect and the sky cleared up pretty quickly as soon as we got there. It also was not overly crowded and there was a very efficient system for visitors who are coming specifically for the observation deck experience.
Entering Shibuya Sky
We went around 4:40 to 5:40 PM and there was a separate entrance leading to the elevator going up to the observation deck on the first floor of the Shibuya Sky Building. There is a clear flow once you arrive. You line up, wait your turn, and then ride a sleek elevator with light effects on the ceiling that gives you the illusion of being on a spaceship. Before going up to the rooftop, you stop at a locker area. This part is strict but understandable because they want to make sure you don’t end up losing your items or dropping them from the top by accident.
You are only allowed to bring your phone. No bags, no tripods, no earphones, no chargers, and nothing that could fall. Everything else goes into a locker, including your backpacks or bags. This keeps the rooftop safe and clutter-free and ensures everyone’s safety. On top of that, there is a stylish restaurant, a merchandise and souvenir shop, clean and modern bathrooms, and a comfortable waiting space if you need an area to relax after or before going to the deck area.
Inside the building
Before heading outside, there is an indoor area that is fully enclosed but with glass walls which allow you to see the view in almost all angles. That is also where the famous escalator view is located, it is usually where people film themselves going up to the open area and can be seen in a lot of social media clips of Shibuya Sky.
When you get to the top, you will be greeted by the night sky or the warm sun depending on what time of the day you decide to go. There is also a helipad in the center of the view deck which is also free for guests to walk on, take pictures together or film.
The observation decks
There are two main areas. One is an enclosed observation space where you can enjoy the view behind reinforced glass walls and at the same time, staying warm. The other is the open rooftop area, which is considered the highlight and where a majority of visitors spend most of their time in. Even in winter, it was packed but still felt cozy enough to stay and enjoy the scenery, and surprisingly, it wasn’t as cold as you would expect being hundreds of feet above the ground, provided that you are appropriately dressed and have a down jacket on.
On the top deck, you will also find the famous netted hammocks where you can lie down and look up at the sky with your friends or partner. It can be hard to secure a spot as the hammocks are extremely popular and are rarely vacant, so you may have to wait a bit for your turn if it seems pretty crowded. There is also a well-lit corner designed for photos where a staff can take professional photos of you, and you can purchase them for around 1,500 yen. You can also take your own photos using your phone for about half a minute or so. There is also a huge line for this, so you can take pictures of the view while you wait, but make sure not to extend your phone over the rails as this is strictly prohibited.
Of course, what can I say. The view was stunning. You can see Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Skytree in the distance, and the city lights stretching endlessly in all directions. At night, the city looks calm but alive at the same time. People crossing the street, colorful billboards scattered across your line of sight, cars can be seen in almost every corner. My husband loves to take panoramic shots and time lapse videos and this was the perfect time and place to do it!
Time limit and staying longer
Officially, the stay is limited, and our tickets indicated we only had around 20 minutes. In reality, no one rushed us and most people who were there stayed as long as they wanted to. We stayed close to an hour because we were enjoying the view and taking our time, so that definitely was a plus in our book.
In the open area, there is also a rooftop bar, and a VIP seating area where you can sit comfortably and have the full view of the Tokyo Tower if you don’t mind paying extra to sit and relax with a drink in one hand.
Overall impression
Shibuya Sky felt well-organized, comfortable, and certainly worth the price. It did not feel rushed, overly touristy, or stressful so we actually got to enjoy our time there. Going in the evening during winter worked surprisingly well, especially if you want a clear view of the night sky and city lights without the usual heavy crowds.
If you are looking for an observation deck in the Tokyo area that feels modern and thoughtfully designed, Shibuya Sky is a great choice, even if you have already been to other viewpoints in Tokyo. Make sure to book a reservation online ahead of time and save yourself the hassle of buying the tickets in person without guaranteed slots. Don’t miss this chance to make your own memories in one of Shibuya’s most popular destinations!
