Bunkyo Civic Center in Photos
The Bunkyo Civic Center is a weird-looking free observatory in Tokyo. Think of a flying saucer (half of one) atop a building. The views from twenty-five floors up are excellent. I never tire of them. Cityscape photographers love this place.
Why? Two views are stunning. One is the Shinjuku skyline. Tokyo Skytree is the other. Some might call them unforgettable.
The Shinjuku views are good during the day. On a fine day, Mount Fuji serves as its backdrop. Sunset makes things better. The sight is magnificent when the sun is behind the buildings. Photographers line the windows to get the shots.
Tokyo Skytree is to the east, offering good opportunities for photography. During the day, it’s impressive, towering above everything else in the area. At night, it is spectacular – like a lighthouse in an ocean of lights.
Walking around the viewing deck reveals much. Ikebukuro, Tokyo University’s famous clock tower, and Koishikawa-Korakuen are among the sights. Sadly, a new building nearby blocks the views to the north.
The observatory is spacious. People don’t bump into others. Tables, chairs, and drink machines are there if needed!
Bunkyo Civic Center reveals something about Tokyo. Most areas are flat. Skyscrapers cluster in places. Shinjuku is one, as is Ikebukuro. From Ikebukuro to Akihabara, there are hardly any. Much of the city is flat.
What to photograph from Bunkyo Civic Center Observatory
- Ikebukuro
- Mount Fuji
- Shinjuku (including Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building)
- Tokyo Skytree
- Night views
Photography tips
- Most windows have ledges. Use them as substitute tripods.
- The windows are large and angled out, allowing good downward views.
- Spot shadows on the buildings and roads during daytime.
Photography problems
- The view is about 270ᐤ, not 360.
- There is no view of Tokyo Tower.
- Tripods, bipods, and monopods are banned.
Where is the Civic Center?
Address: 1-16-21 Kasuga, Bunkyo City, Tokyo
Here it is on a Google map:
Closest train stations:
- Korakuen: Marunouchi Metro (Exit 4a and 5) and Namboku Lines (Exit 5). A one-minute walk from the observatory.
- Kasuga: Mita and Ōedo Lines.
- JR Suidoubashi: Sobu line. A ten-minute walk.
Opening hours
- 9 AM to 8:30 PM.
- It is closed for the New Year holidays (December 29-January 3) and the 3rd Sunday in May.
Admission costs
None
Conclusion
Bunkyo Civic Center observatory is great for cityscape photographers. Some might disagree with me. There are flaws, but the pros outweigh them. Remember, it’s free and rarely crowded! The sunset views are awesome. Leave questions and comments below.
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
Here are more observatories:
External related websites:
- Bunkyo Civic Center Observation Deck (official website)