Shinjuku West Exit is lined with high-rise buildings, offering 5 free observation decks for night views. From the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building's 45th floor to New Hilton's 50th floor, we've organized the views, hours, and peak times.
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Shinjuku West Exit is a cluster of high-rise buildings in Tokyo's western half. **Fortunately, all 5 observation decks are free**——you just need to know the hours.
5 Free Observation Decks
01｜Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building North-South Observation Deck｜45th Floor
The most famous free observation deck. **45th floor, 202m above sea level**. Both north and south observation rooms are open (on alternating schedules). On clear days, you can see Mount Fuji.
Open 09:00-22:30. Peak hours 18:30-20:00 with approximately 30-minute wait times.
02｜Keio Plaza｜45F Observation Restaurant
The 45th floor features an observation bar (minimum charge ¥1,500 for drinks), where **you can enjoy unlimited time admiring the night view from the window seats**.
A leisurely option to enjoy a drink while taking in the night views.
03 | SOMPO Museum | 42nd Floor
The museum itself requires an admission fee, but **the 42nd-floor observation lobby is free**. The views are comparable to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, with far fewer crowds.
Open 10:00-18:00. The hour before closing in the evening is most beautiful.
04｜Shinjuku Nomura Building｜49th Floor
A free observation lobby inside a commercial building. Open during business hours (weekdays 09:00-17:00), with almost no crowds in the afternoon on weekdays.
Not open on weekends — available on weekdays only.
05｜Shinjuku Mitsui Building｜55F
55th-floor soaring atrium, **Tokyo's highest free viewing experience**. Views encompassing the Ikebukuro direction.
Open weekdays 09:00-21:00, with café starting from ¥500.
All 5 observation decks are free — pick 1 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building + 1 other combination = **a complete night view evening for free**.
A 15-minute walk from IGO HOTEL to the Metropolitan Government Building.
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