The Best Free View in Tokyo? A Guide to Tower Hall Funabori

Tokyo Skytree towers over the glittering city skyline and river bridge at night, illuminated in rainbow colors.

Are you looking for a fresh perspective on Tokyo’s skyline, away from the crowds? Discover Tower Hall Funabori, a hidden gem in the city’s eastern Edogawa ward. While it doesn’t soar to the heights of the Skytree, this 115-meter observatory delivers different and free panoramic views. To the west, the glittering Shinjuku skyscrapers create a classic silhouette, with the majestic Mount Fuji visible on a clear day. It’s the perfect spot to escape the crowds and capture Tokyo in a new light.

Sunset view of Mt. Fuji and Tokyo skyline captured from the observation deck at Tower Hall Funabori.
The perfect pair - Mt. Fuji and Tokyo Tower at sunset.

The western view: A classic Tokyo panorama

From its location in the east, the observatory’s prime view is looking west across the vast Tokyo metropolis. Two of Japan’s most famous icons dominate the scene. The modern form of the Tokyo Skytree stands nearby, while on clear days, the snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji rises above the distant cityscape. This direction is especially stunning during sunset.

Soft-focus view of Tokyo Skytree and the cityscape framed by a dark window silhouette at sunset.

Under you, two rivers, the enormous Ara and the smaller Naka meander from the northwest. They flow next to each other, separated by a narrow divide with an elevated freeway. The added benefit is they provide a welcome break in the endless sea of houses and other buildings in the area.

Twilight cityscape overlooking Tokyo Bay featuring the illuminated Kasai Rinkai Park Ferris wheel.
Can you see the Ferris Wheel in distant Kasai?

South, East, and North: The immensity of the city

The other directions reveal the sheer, staggering scale of the Tokyo area. To the south, you can spot Tokyo Bay and the Ferris Wheel at Kasai Rinkai Park. The views looking east and north showcase a seemingly endless urban landscape stretching to the horizon, with the lone peak of Mt. Tsukuba visible in the distance. While these scenes are more subtle by day, they transform into a glittering carpet of lights after dark, offering a sense of the city’s size.

Twilight cityscape of dense Tokyo sprawl featuring elevated train tracks and illuminated streets.
The houses go forever.

What you can photograph from Tower Hall Funabori

  • Disneyland/Sea
  • The Ferris Wheel at Kasai Rinkai Park
  • Mount Fuji
  • Mount Tsukuba
  • Rainbow Bridge
  • Shinjuku skyscrapers
  • Tokyo Skytree
  • Tokyo Tower
Twilight view of Tokyo Skytree and a glowing green golf driving range amidst the city lights.
Golf anyone?

Photography tips

  • Manage Window Glare: You’ll be shooting through glass. Press your lens against the window (a rubber lens hood helps) or use a jacket to block interior reflections.
  • Use the Ledge: If you don’t have a tripod, a convenient ledge around the windows is perfect for placing your camera for steady long exposures.
  • Bring a Tripod (with a Permit): For ultimate stability, you can use a tripod. First, visit the reception on the 5th floor to fill out a simple form for a free photo permit. This often grants you access to a dedicated photographer’s deck.
  • Pack a Longer Lens: Most major subjects are kilometers away. A telephoto or zoom lens is highly recommended to capture details of the skyline and mountains.
  • Avoid Peak Times: The deck is small. To avoid crowds, try to visit on a weekday. Public holidays and Sunday afternoons can get very busy.
Sunset view of the Arakawa River and highway bridge set against the glowing Tokyo skyline.
The heart of the city over the Ara River.

Nearby photo spots

After your visit, explore the nearby Ojima Komatsugawa Park, a spacious green area along the Arakawa River that’s beautiful during cherry blossom season. Or, head south to Kasai Rinkai Park for its iconic Ferris wheel, waterfront views, and birdspotting.

Golden hour view of Tokyo Skytree towering over the Arakawa River and highway bridges.
A beautiful Tokyo Skytree in the late afternoon.

Plan your visit

Where is Tower Hall Funabori?

Address: 4-1-1 Funabori, Edogawa City, Tokyo

Here it is on a Google map:

Closest train station

Funabori Station on the Toei Shinjuku Line.

Opening hours

9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Admission Costs

None

For the most up-to-date information, consult the official Tower Hall Funabori website.

Twilight view of a glowing Ferris wheel rising above the city and Tokyo Bay.

Conclusion

While the westward view at sunset will capture most photographers’ attention, Tower Hall Funabori’s true appeal lies in the unique perspective it offers on the entire city. It may not have the fame of the Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower, but it provides a rewarding and refreshingly different view of the metropolis that visitors are sure to appreciate—especially without the crowds and the price tag.

Picture of Rohan Gillett
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.

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