Shibuya Sky vs Tokyo Skytree: Which Observation Deck Should You Visit?

Planning your Tokyo trip and wondering which observation deck deserves a spot on your itinerary? You're not alone. Both Shibuya Sky and Tokyo Skytree offer amazing views of the city, but they provide completely different experiences. 

Let's break down everything you need to know to make the right choice for your visit.

Quick Overview

Shibuya Sky is the trendy newcomer that opened in 2019. Located on top of Shibuya Scramble Square, it sits 229 meters high and offers a modern, Instagram-worthy experience in the heart of Tokyo's busiest district.

Tokyo Skytree is the iconic giant that's been around since 2012. Standing at 634 meters, it's the tallest structure in Japan and offers two observation decks with traditional and futuristic elements combined.

Height and Views: Does Size Matter?

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree wins the height battle by a landslide. At 634 meters tall, it's nearly three times higher than Shibuya Sky. The main observation deck (Tembo Deck) sits at 350 meters, and the upper deck (Tembo Galleria) reaches 450 meters. From here, you can see Mount Fuji on clear days and get a bird's-eye view of the entire Kanto region.

Shibuya Sky sits at 229 meters, which is significantly lower. But here's the thing: the views are still spectacular. You get an up-close look at Tokyo's urban landscape, with the famous Shibuya Crossing directly below, skyscrapers all around, and Mount Fuji visible on clear days too.

The real difference? Tokyo Skytree gives you that "on top of the world" feeling, where the city looks tiny below. Shibuya Sky puts you right in the middle of the action, where you feel connected to the city's energy.

The Experience: Modern Cool vs Traditional Wonder

People Watching Sunset Over Tokyo from Shibuya Sky

Shibuya Sky's Experience:

The journey starts on the 14th floor, where you enter an immersive tunnel with moving lights and sounds. It's designed to get you excited before you even reach the top. The observation deck itself is split into three zones:

• Sky Stage (outdoor area): This is the star attraction. It's an open-air rooftop with minimal barriers, giving you unobstructed 360-degree views. The floor has special viewing spots, hammock-like nets you can lie on, and great photo opportunities. You can feel the wind and truly experience being up high.

• Sky Gallery (transition zone): This indoor space on the 46th floor has massive windows and art installations. It's quieter and more reflective.

• Sky Gate (indoor deck): The main indoor observation area with floor-to-ceiling windows.

The whole vibe is modern, sleek, and designed for social media. The lighting changes throughout the day, making sunset and night visits particularly magical.

Tokyo Skytree's Experience:

Tokyo Skytree Café

Tokyo Skytree feels more grand and traditional in its approach. The building itself is an architectural marvel inspired by traditional Japanese pagodas. Inside, you'll find:

• Tembo Deck (350m): This is the main observation floor with large windows, a restaurant, cafe, and souvenir shops. The deck has glass floor sections where you can look straight down. There's more space to walk around, and it never feels too crowded.

• Tembo Galleria (450m): This is an additional ticket and features a spiral ramp that takes you even higher. The walkway creates a unique experience as you ascend through the clouds (on a cloudy day, literally).

Tokyo Skytree also includes educational displays about the tower's construction and Tokyo's geography. The entire experience feels more comprehensive and family-friendly.

Location and Accessibility

Tokyo Skytree

Shibuya Sky sits right in Shibuya, one of Tokyo's most vibrant neighborhoods. After your visit, you can:

• Watch the famous Shibuya Crossing

• Shop at countless trendy stores

• Explore Shibuya's nightlife and restaurants

• Visit nearby Harajuku, Omotesando, or Yoyogi Park

Getting there: Shibuya Station is served by multiple train lines and is a major hub. Many Tokyo city tours include Shibuya as a key stop, making it easy to combine your observation deck visit with other activities in the area.

Tokyo Skytree is located in the Sumida district, which is less central but still well-connected. The area around Tokyo Skytree includes:

• Tokyo Solamachi shopping complex (300+ shops)

• Sumida Aquarium

• Traditional neighborhoods like Asakusa (just 20-minute walk)

• The historic Sensoji Temple nearby

You can easily combine a visit to Tokyo Skytree with Asakusa temple tours, as many visitors do both in one day. The Oshiage Station is right at the base of the tower.

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Unlock a day of wonders in Tokyo! Ascend the iconic Skytree for panoramic city views and explore the enchanting underwater world at Sumida Aquarium.

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Ticket Prices

Shibuya Sky:

• Adults: Around ¥2,000-2,500 ($14-17 USD)

• Advance booking recommended

• Sometimes offers sunset or nighttime special tickets at slightly higher prices

Tokyo Skytree:

• Tembo Deck only: Around ¥2,100-2,300 for adults on weekdays, ¥2,300-2,500 on weekends

• Tembo Deck + Tembo Galleria combo: Around ¥3,100-3,400 on weekdays, ¥3,400-3,700 on weekends

• Prices vary by date and time (dynamic pricing)

• Skip-the-line tickets available at premium prices

Tokyo Skytree is more expensive, especially if you want to visit both decks. However, the experience is more extensive with more to see and do.

Crowds and Wait Times

Shibuya Sky gets very busy, especially on weekends and during sunset hours. The rooftop space is limited, so even with timed tickets, it can feel crowded. The best strategy is to book the earliest morning slot or visit on a weekday afternoon.

Tokyo Skytree handles crowds better due to its larger size. Even on busy days, the observation decks don't feel as packed. However, you might wait in line at the ticket counter if you don't book in advance. Many guided Tokyo tours include skip-the-line access, which can save you 30-60 minutes of waiting.

Best Time to Visit Each

Tokyo Skytree Restaurant

For Shibuya Sky:

• Sunset time: The golden hour view is incredible, with the city transforming from day to night

• Early morning: Fewer crowds and crystal clear air

• Night visit: The Tokyo cityscape lit up is breathtaking, and the observation deck has special lighting

For Tokyo Skytree:

• Late afternoon to evening: You can see the city in daylight and stay for the illumination (the tower itself lights up beautifully)

• Clear winter days: Best visibility for Mount Fuji views

• Weekday mornings: Least crowded time

Weather Considerations

Both observation decks are weather-dependent for the best experience. On rainy or foggy days, visibility drops significantly, and you'll miss out on those iconic views.

Shibuya Sky's outdoor rooftop closes during heavy rain or strong winds, which is a major downside. You'll still have indoor viewing areas, but you'll lose the main attraction.

Tokyo Skytree stays open in most weather conditions since it's entirely indoors. On cloudy days, you might even get the surreal experience of being above the clouds. Check the weather forecast before booking, and consider flexible tickets if possible.

Photography Opportunities

Skytree Tembo Galleria 450m

Shibuya Sky is the winner for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts. The open-air rooftop means no glass reflections, and the modern design creates artistic photo opportunities. The viewing nets are especially popular. During special events, they sometimes have art installations or special lighting.

Tokyo Skytree offers stunning views but you're shooting through glass on all observation decks. While the glass is kept clean, you'll still deal with reflections. However, the height advantage means you can capture wider, more dramatic cityscape photos.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose Shibuya Sky if:

• You want a trendy, modern experience

• You prefer being outdoors and don't mind the wind

• You're staying in or exploring central Tokyo (Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku area)

• You have limited time and want to combine it with exploring Shibuya

• You want better photos without glass reflections

• You're looking for a more intimate, boutique experience

Choose Tokyo Skytree if:

• You want the classic Tokyo tower experience

• You prefer higher elevations and more dramatic views

• You're visiting Asakusa or eastern Tokyo

• You're traveling with family or kids

• You want an all-weather option

• You don't mind glass windows for photography

• You want more facilities (shops, restaurants, etc.)

Can You Visit Both?

Tokyo Skytree Ticket Booths

Absolutely! If you have time, visiting both gives you two completely different perspectives of Tokyo. A good strategy is to visit Tokyo Skytree during the day (perhaps combined with Asakusa temple tours) and Shibuya Sky at sunset or night. They're about 30-40 minutes apart by train.

Many visitors find that seeing Tokyo from both locations helps them understand the city's layout better. It's also a great way to see how different neighborhoods look from above.

Combining with Other Tokyo Attractions

Near Shibuya Sky:

• Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park (15 minutes away)

• Harajuku's Takeshita Street

• Omotesando shopping district

• Yoyogi Park

Many Tokyo sightseeing tours cover the Shibuya-Harajuku-Shinjuku circuit in one day, which is an efficient way to see multiple neighborhoods.

Near Tokyo Skytree:

• Asakusa and Sensoji Temple (20-minute walk)

• Sumida Park along the river

• Tokyo Solamachi shopping mall

• Edo-Tokyo Museum

The Asakusa area is rich in traditional culture, making it perfect for visitors interested in Japanese history. You can easily join walking tours of Asakusa that end or begin at Tokyo Skytree.

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Shibuya Sky vs Tokyo Skytree: The Verdict

There's no wrong choice here - both Shibuya Sky and Tokyo Skytree offer unforgettable experiences.

If I had to pick just one, I'd say Tokyo Skytree for first-time visitors who want the iconic, comprehensive Tokyo viewing experience. The height, the views, and the overall facility make it a complete attraction.

But Shibuya Sky wins for repeat visitors, photography enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to feel the pulse of modern Tokyo. The open-air experience simply can't be beaten.

Your best bet? Visit both if you can. Your second-best bet? Choose based on where else you're going in Tokyo that day. Either way, you'll get incredible views of one of the world's most fascinating cities.