Tokyu Kabukicho Tower Observation Deck Photography Guide
For photographers seeking a fresh perspective on Shinjuku’s cityscape, the free observation deck on the 17th floor of the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower offers a new vantage point. Opened in April 2023, this modern entertainment complex provides a unique westerly and southerly panorama. It encompasses iconic skyscrapers and the bustling railway lines of Shinjuku Station. This guide will equip you with the information to plan your photographic excursion to this rising star among Tokyo’s observatories.
Essential Info: Access, admission, and hours
The observation deck is located on the 17th floor of the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, within the public area of the JAM17 restaurant and bar.
- Admission: Free
- Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily (following JAM17’s hours)
- Access:
- Seibu-Shinjuku Station: 1-minute walk
- Shinjuku-Nishiguchi Station (Toei Oedo Line): 6-minute walk
- JR Shinjuku Station: 7-minute walk
Click the image below to see the tower on Google Maps:
What to expect: Shinjuku’s "Coruscant" cityscape
The observation area shows you how congested the buildings of Tokyo can be. They are so packed together, and there seems to be no space between them. Go to the outdoor terrace and look west. For me, it reminds me of Star Wars’ Coruscant; the concrete jungle seems to extend forever.
It also provides stunning views of Shinjuku’s impressive skyline. Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower and the Sompo Japan Building feature prominently. Photographers can also capture some of the train tracks at JR Shinjuku and Seibu-Shinjuku Stations from a unique elevated perspective. The space has an indoor viewing gallery decorated with Disk Union record art, and an outdoor terrace. Both offer distinct photographic opportunities.
Best times for photography: The blue hour
For those seeking to capture the magic of the city at night, the “blue hour”—the period shortly after sunset. It will yield dramatic images with a deep blue sky and glowing city lights. While the public areas on the 17th floor are accessible, it is best to plan your visit during the operating hours of the adjacent dining and bar, JAM17.
Photography gear and technical tips
Tripod policy at Tokyu Kabukicho Tower
There is nothing written about them in the public area, but I asked a security guard, and he confirmed they aren’t allowed. This is no different from many other observatories in Tokyo.
How to manage glass reflections
These pose a major challenge for the unprepared, especially when the sun starts to set and the lights go on. As they are right behind you, reflections in the glass can’t be avoided. Don’t forget a lens hood or skirt like I did because you’ll regret it. If you don’t have one, ask someone to stand behind you to block the light. Of course, you can take care of them in Photoshop.
Recommended lenses for cityscapes
A versatile zoom lens, such as my Canon RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM, is recommended to capture a variety of compositions. Wide-angle lenses are useful for encompassing the vastness of the cityscape. Telephoto lenses can isolate and compress distant landmarks.
Handheld night settings (no tripod setup)
Since tripods are a no-go, you shoot handheld. Start with these settings and adjust as needed:
- Mode: Manual (M) or Aperture Priority (A/Av).
- Aperture: Set your aperture between f/8 and f/11. This range typically gives you the sharpest results for cityscape shots and keeps everything in focus.
- ISO: Start your ISO around 800 and be prepared to go up to 3200 or even 6400, depending on your camera’s capabilities. A higher ISO will let you use a faster shutter speed to avoid blur, but it will also introduce more digital noise.
- Shutter Speed: Aim for a shutter speed that is fast enough to prevent camera shake. A good rule of thumb is to use a speed that is at least 1 divided by your lens’s focal length (e.g., for a 50mm lens, use 1/50s or faster).
- Image stabilization in your lens or camera body will be a huge help here.
- Focus: Don’t rely on autofocus in the dark. Switch to manual focus and use your camera’s screen to zoom in on a distant, bright point of light (like a building’s antenna) to nail your focus. If you have focus peaking, that will be a huge help.
The outdoor terrace: An open-air perspective
The 17th floor boasts an open-air terrace with two-meter-high windows.
Comparing Tokyu Kabukicho Tower vs. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Kabukicho Tower offers a fresh and more intimate perspective of the Shinjuku skyscraper district. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building provides a higher vantage point with the potential for wider, more expansive shots. You also have the chance of seeing Mount Fuji on a clear day.
So which is best? The Metropolitan Government Building has one key advantage. Its south observatory is the more favorable orientation for capturing sunset views over the city and Mount Fuji. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the photographer’s desired composition and perspective. Of course, you could visit both as they are free!
Other amenities in Tokyu Kabukicho Tower
While the main purpose of my visit was the fantastic free view, the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower is a multifaceted entertainment complex. Should you wish to extend your stay, the adjacent JAM17 dining and bar on the 17th floor provides an option for a meal or a drink with the same great perspective. But, it’s worth repeating that entrance to the viewing gallery and terrace where I took my photos is free.
Beyond the 17th floor, the tower also contains a variety of restaurants, a cinema, a theater, and live music venues, allowing you to combine your cityscape shoot with other leisure activities.
Shinjuku Kabuki Hall – Kabuki Yokocho
On the second floor of the tower is Shinjuku Kabuki Hall – Kabuki Yokocho. It’s a cross between a gaming arcade and an izakaya-filled alley. Lanterns and retro neon are everywhere. It’s open daily from 6 a.m. to 5 a.m., which is perfect for a late-night hangout.
Tokyu Kabukicho Tower FAQ
Is the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower observation deck free?
Yes, access to the 17th-floor viewing gallery and terrace is completely free.
Can I use a tripod on the observation deck?
No, you cannot.
What are the opening hours?
The viewing area is accessible during the operating hours of the 17th-floor dining and bar, JAM17. It’s best to check their official website for the most current hours.
What is the best time to visit for photography?
For night shots, arriving before sunset to capture the “blue hour” is ideal. For fewer crowds, a weekday afternoon is your best bet.
Is the view behind glass?
Yes. The indoor gallery is behind glass, and the outdoor terrace has two-meter-high glass panels. You will be shooting through glass in both areas.
How high is the observation deck?
It is located on the 17th floor of the tower.
Is it free?
Yes, it is.
Is this view better than the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building?
It’s not better, just different. Kabukicho Tower offers a closer, more intimate view of the main Shinjuku skyscraper group. The Metropolitan Government Building is much higher and offers a more panoramic view, including a chance to see Mt. Fuji.
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has photographed Tokyo since 2011. He shoots it with his Canon EOS R5. The project will take more than one lifetime to complete.
