Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building | Tokyo

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (東京都庁舎, Tōkyō Tochōsha), often referred to as Tochō or simply the Tokyo Government Building, is one of Tokyo's most iconic and futuristic landmarks. It serves as the administrative center for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG), the governing body of Tokyo. The building is a significant part of the city's skyline and a symbol of modernity, architecture, and governance in Tokyo.

Overview:

• Opened: 1991
• Location: Shinjuku, Tokyo (near Shinjuku Station)
• Architectural Style: Neo-futurism / High-tech architecture
• Height: The building stands at 243 meters (797 feet) tall, making it one of the tallest buildings in Tokyo.
• Floors: It has 48 floors above ground, with a total of 2 underground levels.

Architectural Design:

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building was designed by the renowned Japanese architect Kenzo Tange, who is known for his bold, futuristic designs that blend modernism with traditional Japanese elements. The building’s structure is designed with an innovative, high-tech aesthetic that reflects Tokyo’s dynamic and modern character.

• Main Features:
  • The building consists of two main towers (the North and South Towers) connected by lower levels.
  • The North Tower is taller, reaching a height of 243 meters, while the South Tower is slightly shorter at 163 meters.
  • The design of the towers is often compared to the image of futuristic Gothic architecture, with a somewhat "spaceship" or mechanical look.
  • The top of the North Tower features an observation deck that is one of the most popular spots for panoramic views of Tokyo.

Notable Features and Functions:

1. Government Offices:

• The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building serves as the headquarters for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. It houses various government departments and offices, including:
  • The Governor of Tokyo’s office.
  • The Tokyo Assembly.
  • Various public service departments, including those focused on urban planning, disaster management, and public services.

2. Observation Decks:

The most famous feature of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is its free observation decks, located on the 45th floor of both the North Tower and the South Tower. These decks provide breathtaking views of the city and beyond, making the building a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

• North Tower Observation Deck:
  • Offers a 360-degree view of Tokyo and even extends as far as Mount Fuji on clear days. Visitors can also see iconic landmarks such as Tokyo Tower, Shibuya, Odaiba, and Roppongi Hills.
• South Tower Observation Deck:
  • Provides views of Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Shrine, and other parts of the city. It's a great spot for photography, especially during sunset when the sky over the city turns beautiful colors.

Both decks are free of charge and equipped with telescopes and informational displays about Tokyo's landmarks and urban layout.

3. Public Access and Facilities:

The building is open to the public, allowing visitors to access its observation decks, explore the lower levels, and attend events or exhibitions. The ground floor and basement levels contain:

• Shops and restaurants offering a variety of local and international foods, as well as souvenirs.
• Tourist Information Center for those looking to explore Tokyo and learn about its attractions and services.
• Art exhibitions and cultural events are occasionally held within the building, highlighting local artists or themes related to Tokyo’s history and culture.

4. Special Features:

• Lighting: The building is often illuminated at night with dramatic lighting, which makes it stand out as a landmark in the Shinjuku skyline.
• Cultural Exhibitions: From time to time, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building hosts exhibitions, particularly in its lower levels, showcasing Tokyo's culture, history, and developments.

How to Get There:

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is centrally located in the Shinjuku district, easily accessible by various public transportation options:

• By Train:
  • The Toei Oedo Line’s Tochomae Station is the closest station (directly underneath the building). It’s just a 1-minute walk from the station to the entrance.
  • JR Shinjuku Station is about a 10-minute walk from the building and is a major transport hub connecting various JR lines.
• By Bus: Numerous buses stop near the building, including routes that connect various parts of Tokyo.

Best Time to Visit:

The observation decks are a major draw for visitors, and they’re open every day except Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday). The best time to visit depends on what you're looking for:

• Daytime: The clear skies during daylight hours offer the best views of the city, including landmarks like Tokyo Skytree and Mount Fuji.
• Sunset: Catching the sunset from the observation deck provides stunning views as the sun sets behind Tokyo’s skyline, turning the city into a dazzling array of lights.
• Nighttime: The night views are equally spectacular, with Tokyo's vast urban landscape lit up by neon signs and city lights.

Conclusion:

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is not only a functional government hub but also an architectural marvel and a major tourist attraction. Its futuristic design, free observation decks, and proximity to other major attractions in Shinjuku make it a must-visit landmark in Tokyo. Whether you're interested in the city's governance, its architecture, or simply want to enjoy panoramic views of the bustling metropolis, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is the perfect spot to explore.