Roppongi Mori Tower | Tokyo

Roppongi Mori Tower (六本木ヒルズ森タワー, Roppongi Hiruzu Mori Tawā) is one of Tokyo's most iconic skyscrapers, located in the upscale Roppongi district. It is part of the Roppongi Hills development, a sprawling complex that blends office buildings, luxury apartments, shops, restaurants, cultural institutions, and more. The Mori Tower itself is known for its modern architecture, stunning views, and its role as a key landmark in Tokyo's skyline.

Overview:

• Location: Roppongi, Minato Ward, Tokyo
• Height: 238 meters (781 feet)
• Floors: 54 floors above ground
• Opened: 2003
• Developer: Mori Building Company (the developer of the entire Roppongi Hills project)
• Primary Use: Office spaces, retail, dining, residential apartments, and entertainment.

Key Features of Roppongi Mori Tower:

1. Observation Deck (Tokyo City View):

One of the main attractions of Roppongi Mori Tower is its Tokyo City View observation deck, which offers some of the best panoramic views of the Tokyo skyline.

• Location: The observation deck is located on the 52nd floor of the Mori Tower.
• Views: Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and even Mount Fuji on clear days.
• Night Views: The observation deck is especially popular at night, offering breathtaking views of the city lit up.
• Sky Deck: A part of the Tokyo City View is an open-air observation deck (on the rooftop), where visitors can feel the breeze and enjoy a 360-degree view of the city. It's especially popular during sunset.

2. Art and Culture:

Mori Tower is also home to various cultural facilities, including museums and art galleries.

• Mori Art Museum: Located on the 53rd floor of the tower, the Mori Art Museum is one of Japan's leading contemporary art museums. It features rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary art, focusing on both Japanese and international artists.
• Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts cutting-edge exhibitions, ranging from visual arts and sculpture to multimedia installations and fashion design.
• The museum is closely integrated with the Roppongi Hills complex, and many of its events are designed to appeal to a global audience.

3. Restaurants and Dining:

Roppongi Mori Tower offers a variety of restaurants and cafes with different cuisines and atmospheres, including some with amazing views of the city.

• High-End Dining: The upper floors of the tower have several luxurious restaurants that serve Japanese, French, Italian, and international cuisines.
• Casual Dining: There are also more casual dining options and cafes scattered throughout the complex.
• Some of the restaurants are situated on the 52nd floor, offering panoramic views of the city while you enjoy your meal.

4. Office and Residential Spaces:

The tower is primarily a business hub, housing office spaces for many international corporations, especially in the finance, media, and technology sectors.

• Residential: The building also features luxury apartments, offering spectacular views of Tokyo from the heart of the city. These are part of the integrated mixed-use development that combines residential, office, and commercial spaces.

5. Roppongi Hills Complex:

Roppongi Mori Tower is the centerpiece of the larger Roppongi Hills development, which includes a wide range of facilities such as:

• Shopping and Retail: The surrounding area includes a shopping mall with a variety of high-end brands, boutiques, and specialty shops.
• Cinemas: The Roppongi Hills Mori Tower complex has cinemas that screen the latest international and Japanese films.
• Hotels: The Grand Hyatt Tokyo, located near the tower, is a luxurious hotel within Roppongi Hills.

6. Roppongi Hills Mori Garden:

The Mori Garden is a beautifully landscaped park located next to the Mori Tower. It provides a peaceful green space amidst the urban environment, with ponds, waterfalls, and walking paths, offering a contrast to the surrounding concrete and glass of the skyscraper. It's a lovely spot for a stroll, especially during the spring when cherry blossoms bloom or in autumn when the leaves change colors.

Accessibility and Transportation:

By Train:

• Roppongi Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
• Azabu-Juban Station (Tokyo Metro Namboku Line and Oedo Line)
• Nogizaka Station (Chiyoda Line)

By Bus: Several bus routes pass through the Roppongi area, making it easy to access from other parts of Tokyo.

By Car: There are parking facilities available within Roppongi Hills, though the area is known for heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours.

Best Time to Visit:

• Daytime: The observation deck offers excellent views of Tokyo’s skyline, and it's an ideal place to appreciate the city's layout, landmarks, and surrounding areas.
• Evening: The city lights and the evening ambiance are spectacular. The night views from the observation deck are some of the most famous in Tokyo.
• Special Events: Keep an eye out for special art exhibits or seasonal events at the Mori Art Museum or during festivals in the Roppongi Hills complex.

Conclusion:

Roppongi Mori Tower is not just a skyscraper; it’s a multifaceted destination that combines culture, dining, shopping, and stunning views. Whether you're visiting for its panoramic observation deck, contemporary art exhibitions, or simply to enjoy the vibrant Roppongi district, the tower provides a unique perspective of Tokyo. Its central location within the Roppongi Hills development makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a modern, upscale side of the city.