Hachitama Observatory in Photos
Are you looking for a unique spot to capture Tokyo’s stunning skyline? Hachitama Observatory has great views of the bay, Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Tower, and more! It has a quiet deck, vibrant sunsets, and iconic landmarks. That makes it a dream location for photographers seeking a fresh perspective on the city. By the way, this is all atop a TV station! Let’s explore it.
Rainbow Bridge dominates the view. I love how it stretches over the water, joining Shinagawa to Odaiba. Whether it be day or night, it looks fantastic. Go during the colder months for the best views. At sunset, they will be amazing if the weather is fine. Mount Fuji will be visible on those days.
The observatory has a few quirks, but most photographers will be able to deal with them. But best of all, the deck is rarely crowded. Well, that has been my experience. It is a great Tokyo photo spot.
Things to see from Hachitama Observatory
- Hamarikyu Gardens
- Haneda airport
- Mount Fuji (just the summit area)
- Odaiba shoreline and islands
- Rainbow Bridge
- Shinagawa port area
- Tokyo Skytree
- Tokyo Tower
Photography tips for the observatory
- As with most other observatories in Tokyo, you can’t use tripods or monopods. Stabilization for cameras (i.e. IBIS) would be helpful when the sky darkens.
- In the evening, the interior lights come on, so reflections in the room come off the windows. But, you can’t use lens hoods or cloth to block them.
- The towers on both sides of the deck pose problems. This will be clear when you want to photograph Tokyo Skytree.
- It closes at 6 PM, so time visits to enjoy sunsets during the warmer months. The sun goes down around 7 PM during the longest parts of the year.
- The view from the observatory is 270°, so you can’t see in every direction.
Photo spots near the Hachitama Observatory
- Gundam Unicorn RX-0 Statue
- Rainbow Bridge
- Statue of Liberty
- Telecom Center Observatory
Where is Hachitama Observatory?
Address: 2-4-8 Daiba, Minato City, Tokyo
Here it is on a Google map:
Closest train station:
Odaiba-kaihinkōen on the Yurikamome Line.
Opening hours:
- 10 AM to 6 PM with final admission at 5:30 PM.
- Closed on Mondays. If it is a public holiday and will be open and closed the following day.
Admission costs:
¥800
Hachitama or Telecom Center?
Telecom Center is another Odaiba observatory and is not far away. I enjoy both, but the perspectives they offer are different. Check out both articles to compare. Draw your own answer.
Conclusion
There is much to see from Hachitama. But with Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower so prominent, they draw the most interest. Catch them in the early evening when the weather is clear (remember closing time is 5 PM). Your photo will be stunning.
Go there for that one shot. It’ll be the best cityscape photograph of Tokyo ever. Tell me if I’m wrong. 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.
More observatory articles:
External related websites:
- Hachitama Observatory (official website)