We bought tickets for 4:20- 4:40 entrance to be there for the sunset but when we got up there wasn’t any seats left & people were all sitting at every window waiting for sunset (which wasn’t until 5:55) The top floor was closed due to high winds. You were supposed to have a drink to sit in the bar area but most people were nursing empty glasses. Once it got close to sunset there was a scramble to see it. Once it gets dark taking photos is difficult as there’s video displays opposite the glass with reflections.
I was thinking of going during sunset as well. Thanks for sharing your experience. If you buy tickets for 4:20 to 4:40 does that mean you have to show up at that time or can you be late or early? Is there a line before check-in that may cause you to be late? My fear is if it's a 4:20 to 4:40 ticket the line may be long so I'll miss it or if I line up early I'm too early and just have to keep waving people by.
@@quidamsj we were on time so there wasn’t any issues with long lines, if I remember correctly it wasn’t that busy going up & it was a shock as to how many people were already up there. If you have plenty of time to waste I’d go up much earlier & claim your space next to a window & if in a group have some seats in the bar area & sit in the window facing west for the sunset.🌅
Hi Cakes with Faces. Me and my wife visited Shibuya SKY in January. We bought tickets online with time of entrance at 10AM. It was quite windy at the top level, but it was open so all good. The view was fantastic and we could see Fuji-san easily, and the rest of the very large city of Tokyo. We spent a lot of time at the next floor down from the observation deck, had a snack and a beer and enjoyed the great view. Later my wife enjoyed the many floors with shops 🙂 Before we left we had dinner at a restaurant with view down at the Scramble Square Crossing. We had a great time in Shibuya, and will go back there next time we visit Tokyo.
Hi I just wanted to ask if were allowed to go the cafe in the indoor section even if we already went to the outdoor section then go up again to the outdoor section or is it once we go down one floor we can't go back up? Thankssssss :)
There's also the Bunkyo Civic Center, also totally free :) Observation deck 25 floors up. Not as high up as Shibuya Sky but it has a very nice view of the highrise silhouette of Shinjuku.
we where this past fall and shibuya sky and tokyo sky tree are my favorites, we did tokyo tower also but i found it to small for the amount of people that went, awsome memories when watching this video thank you for the update
This is an absolutely must. At night is so amazing. We went up last November and we got online tickets the same day. When we arrived we discovered that it was lunar eclipse. Crazy. Of course there were many people and the bar was open but booked.
Hi I just wanted to ask if were allowed to go the cafe in the indoor section even if we already went to the outdoor section then go up again to the outdoor section or is it once we go down one floor we can't go back up? Thankssssss :)
Yes!I visited Shibuya sky in June the views where absolutely amazing! I plan on visiting japan again in march 2024 as i was unable to fit everything in on my first trip and of course it was a very wet month to travel!
Hi I just wanted to ask if were allowed to go the cafe in the indoor section even if we already went to the outdoor section then go up again to the outdoor section or is it once we go down one floor we can't go back up? Thankssssss :)
Was just there a couple weeks ago and it was a clear sky and just beautiful. Made me truly realize how massive Tokyo is and could even see Fuji-san since the sky was clear as well as what I assume was Yokohama. And with it being very inexpensive for an observation deck (at least compared to the ones in America) and easy to book online, it’s definitely a must if you’re in Shibuya which you most likely will. There’s also amazing restaurants on the 13th floor as well as other floors in the building
That sounds fantastic - you're lucky to get such a clear view of Mount Fuji. There's something about going to an observation deck that really makes you feel like you're in Tokyo. I can never believe how huge Tokyo is too!
@@cakeswithfaces It was a main reason why I went in mid to late November since I wanted to take a clear picture of Mount Fuji in Fujiyoshida! I'm from Chicago and I'm used to being in a very populated area but the scale of Tokyo really blew me away
I really enjoyed it!You can tell it's purpose-built as an observation deck. It's good being a lot closer to the city than the where the SkyTree is out on the edge.
Thanks for nice video. Great views from Shibuya Sky and this is now my favourite observation deck in Tokyo. I booked my ticket 4 weeks in advance and took a chance the weather was going to be good 😊
The roof top bar is also open during some other times of the year. I was there in November 2022 and it was open. An American tourist got thrown out because he was drunk and extremely inappropriate. I won't lie, it was good fun to watch. 🙃 As far as which observation deck is the best in Tokyo, I'd say this one or the Government building if you're after a free one. This one is the best in my opinion though. Part of the experience is being able to see all the major buildings and attractions like Skytree and Tokyo Tower, which you can't do if you're in their own observatories.
Hi I just wanted to ask if were allowed to go the cafe in the indoor section even if we already went to the outdoor section then go up again to the outdoor section or is it once we go down one floor we can't go back up? Thankssssss :)
Excellent video ... great for those of us planning to come back to visit! A plus that you are vegan ... I just found you, but will be checking in often.
Thanks so much! It's exciting to visit new things that have opened since your last trip! Here's my list of restaurants in Tokyo with veggie options (I travel with meat eaters so need places that cater for us both, which is the hardest!) cakeswithfaces.co.uk/japan/vegetarian-restaurants-in-japan/
I thought the line to the ticket counter would be more inherently obvious than when I went there as I got lost in the square building that had different elevators and escalators and thought maybe one of them went up to the viewing. But to my surprised I kept passing it by as it was just right next to the automatic glass doors coming from scramble crossing. So I still never went up.
Ah, I know what you mean - Shibuya Scramble Square's a whole department store! I found Shibuya quite tricky to navigate too (it's where my hotel was this time) - lots of lifts and escalators and you keep getting sucked into a department store! Hoping it'll be less confusing once all the building work's finished.
The daytime view's still stunning - no twinkly lights but you can see all the buildings more clearly, and there's a chance of a Mount Fuji view! You could always go to the Metropolitan Government Building (free) at sunset or night time as well.
Here are the busiest times of year: - Cherry blossom season, particularly the last 2 weeks of March, which are also the holidays in Japan, and the first week of April. - Golden Week: End of April/start of May. Most people in Japan have the week off and travel domestically, so it's very busy. - Autumn leaves time in November. In general, the winter months when it's colder are the off-season and will always be quieter - except for Hokkaido at snow festival time when lots of people want to go there.
@@cakeswithfaces Thank you for the detailed reply, very helpful. My first trip to Tokyo is in a couple of weeks so looks like it’s outside the busiest times which is good. I’m loving your videos they have been really helpful, so much to think about!!
Hehe, it's good to have a tradition - especially when it's a fluffy pancake tradition! Most of Shibuya is a LOT of shopping - and of course the famous scramble crossing.
Hi I just wanted to ask if were allowed to go the cafe in the indoor section even if we already went to the outdoor section then go up again to the outdoor section or is it once we go down one floor we can't go back up? Thankssssss :)
Defo book well in advance we visited for a week in late April and then came back in June and there were no tickets both times. I think tourism really started to pick back up. We did get up Tokyo Tower and the Metro building though. Both were really good and good value (metro being free!).
I went in early April, I did get in but I had to book a couple of days in advance. I tried going there in the morning one day and there was no chance. I did Tokyo Tower the same time and I could have got in there without a ticket, but it was a lot faster with one than without. I arrived about 40 minutes early and I was told I could come back, which was weird advice as it took ages to get in via the lift. I just waited and so did everyone else
@@cakeswithfaces yeah I think you just made it in the sweet spot as the tourists are back now! The Metro is cool - but you have to watch out for it being closed - we made the trip over there to find it was closed for the day so had to go back another day.
@cakeswithfaces bought a copy of your Japan guide and loving it so far. I’ve got Shibuya Sky, Skytree and the Government Metropolitan building on my itinerary. Is it worth doing all three or is that overkill?
So glad you're enjoying my book! I'd say make your own rules - if you want to do all three, there's no reason why not! The SkyTree's (literally) on another level so it's different. The other two are more centrally located, while the SkyTree's on the edge of the city. I always think it's nice to do one during the day and another at night - which is why the Government Building makes a nice free extra! Shibuya Sky is better than the Government Building though, because there are no window frames, and it's a much clearer view, especially at night when there are a lot of reflections in the Government Building, from the shop and cafe that's in the middle of the floor. But it's free so you can't complain! Maybe do your favourite first, then go to the others as well if you feel like you want to take in more views!
Hi! I'll be traveling to Japan next year from April 23 to May 4 (yes, during golden week 😅) its my second time there but my first time experiencing golden week. Just wondering if tokyo is as bad as people say it is in terms of crowds? Or is it fairly manageable if I would be starting my days early?
I've always avoided Golden Week so I can't say from experience! My 2020 trip was going to be during Golden Week (the flights used to be cheaper then) but obv it got cancelled. Some say that Tokyo isn't too bad because people tend to leave the city for out of town breaks. But I've also heard that touristy places can be very busy eg the SkyTree and Tokyo Disney, so maybe plan to visit anywhere like that before it gets going. It's also very busy on the shinkansen and long distance trains. You'll have to let me know how it is - the bonus is you'll get to enjoy the festivals during Golden Week and see all the beautiful carp streamers for Children's Day.
I find Shibuya quite tricky to navigate sometimes, especially around the station, and with all the construction work going on. When you arrive at the station, the easiest way is to follow signs for Shibuya Scramble Square. That's the name of the building that Shibuya Sky's in. (I mistakenly thought Scramble Square = Hachiko Square with the famous crosswalks at first, but that's not the case!). Shibuya Sky's at the top of Shibuya Scramble Square. Be aware that sometimes not all elevators will go up to that level, some may belong to a department store or mall within the building and only serve those floors, but just keep going up and keep a look-out for signs! There are also instructions on their official site from the various train lines. You want to head to exit B6: www.shibuya-scramble-square.com.e.apy.hp.transer.com/access/
Is it possible to return to the locker after you've had a look at the view? The reason is, I like taking different types of photos with different lenses. I would like to shoot a wide angle to get as much of the view as possible, then go down and switch lenses to a telephoto so I can zoom in and capture specific details and buildings.
I thiiiink you can. Not absolutely 100% sure, but as I remember, the entrance to the lockers is in the same area as the door to go outside and up to the roof deck, and the entrance to the indoor observation deck, shop, etc, and I think you can walk freely between them once you've gone through the ticket gates and up to that level.
Hello thank you very much! The video is very informative. Could you tell me the name of the restaurant where you saw this super cool Shibuya Crossing visa, please? Thank you in advance!
I thiiiiink so - the ticket gates are on the lower floor before you go up in the lift. I *think* once you're up there you're free to roam around the locker room, go up to the top deck and the inside floor.
Hi, thanks so much for making this video! Looks like you got some really nice weather and daytime views. I got to go a few months ago in June, and so glad it was a clear evening at sunset. And the nighttime views omg! I got the couch with drinks & snacks package, which was amazing. My only regret is not having the ticket QR code to hand, so I lost some time trying to find it in my emails (the time in the couch section is limited). Other than that, I absolutely loved the experience!
That sounds fantastic! You're lucky to have got a spot at sunset, they sell out the quickest! I love how warm and summery it is in Japan in June - the start of June's one of my fav times to go! Although I was surprised how nice it was at the end of Feb.
Looks nice now there. Last time I went they had construction work everywhere. Looks like they finished all of that. Awesome view. Not sure my fear of heights would play well with open air roof section. xD You can go to the indoor section without having to pass through the roof area right? A bit on the pricy side but offering a nice view is also the bar at the Park Hyatt hotel. Not the cheapest place for a drink, but I love the blinking red lights at night. :)
Yes they must have finished the construction! Still lots of work going on around Shibuya and the station though, lots of construction walls. The indoors part is on the same level as the lockers, so yes, I think you could just go straight into that if you don't want to go on the open air deck. It is quite intense tbh! I'd love to try the Park Hyatt bar! They say the high price of drinks somewhere like that is the equivalent of your admission fee at an observation deck.
@@cakeswithfaces That's good to know. It looked intense yes, especially with the wind. Depending on the drink yes. A beer is "only" about 8 Euros, whisky, wine, cocktail in the region of the observation deck price depending on how fancy they are. The exchange rate helps a lot because that's not far off from what a drink costs here in a normal bar where a beer is 6-7 Euros. :D For Japanese prices it is pricy yes where I usually paid for a beer half that price.
@@cidiracing7481 That makes sense - it's not surprising you'd pay more somewhere like that. But the same here in the UK - prices can often be that high anyway, especially in London!
I'm not sure - it said no tripods, and they have guidelines that cameras must have a neck strap or be pocket sized, and you're allowed to take your phone, but it didn't say anything about gimbals. If it's not too big, you might be able to get away with it - and if not you'd easily be able to turn back and put it in the lockers. Basically they don't let you take anything that could possibly fly off the edge, for safety!
I thiiiiink so. When you go in, there's a small hallway with the entrance to the locker room, the door to outside to go up to the rooftop and the entrance to the inside level. I thiiiink you can walk freely around them - you'd be able to easily see when you arrive if there are any barriers that would stop you doing that.
Hi I just wanted to ask if were allowed to go the cafe in the indoor section even if we already went to the outdoor section then go up again to the outdoor section or is it once we go down one floor we can't go back up? Thankssssss :)
I'm not sure... the ticket gates are before the lift (on the same level as the counter where you buy tickets) so they wouldn't stop you. But it might just be escalators that take you up and down between in the level with the indoor deck and the top outdoor deck, which would stop you going back between them. Tbh I'm not sure if there's another way, or if you'd be able to go back round in the hallway where the lockers are. Sorry to not be more helpful!
Tripods aren't allowed on the rooftop I'm afraid. You might be able to take one into the indoors level below - I think the rules were just for safety on the rooftop deck. I'm sure you'd be able to ask other people to take photos of you there - everyone would understand you want photos as a souvenir. :-) There's also one corner where the glass walls are slightly lower, where they were taking professional photos, which I think you have to pay for.
Thank you for yet another useful guide video. I purchased my Shibuya Sky ticket a while agon online for sunset time. Although I read the homepage I was not aware selfie sticks and tripods are not allowed. What a bummer.
Phil's cap's from Tokidoki (my fav designer, so that's a compliment!), it's a collab with Aggretsuko. Enjoy Shibuya Sky - sounds like your hotel's in a great location! :-)
Sunset is the most popular time to go, so I think you'd need to book in advance. Even when I went at the end of Feb (a quiet time of year), sunset was sold out, but other times of day were available. You can book tickets in english on their official website.
As long as you like! Well, until it closes, I guess...! The entry time is set by your ticket but there are no rules about how long you can stay once you're in.
I would add to the list of not to do : screaming like gojira , use a the laser attack of gojira , no fly zone for supman , no Ultraman transformation.....
I bought a ticket on the day, but if you're going at a busy time of year you may want to get a ticket in advance. If you want to go at sunset, you'll need to buy a ticket in advance as that's the most popular time and sells out first. You can check availability on the official website, if you go through the booking process.
@@cakeswithfaces I think maybe the location is better. I do love Shibuya sky as well. There’s something about being on the roof of the Mori with no glass between you and the view a bit more special. The museum always has pretty amazing exhibitions on as well. Shibuya Sky is a lot larger though. I didn’t like the glass because it made it hard to take photos
Thanks for the video and especially for the tips about whether or not buying them in advance! Do You know the availability for the "champagne couch" and how far in advance do You need to book for it?
The couches are along one side of the rooftop deck (you can see them in the video thumbnail!). There aren't that many, so you'd need to book them early. You can check availability if you follow the link to book tickets on the official site - right now they're fully booked until the first week of September, and only the earliest time's still available for that week.
Hi I just wanted to ask if were allowed to go the cafe in the indoor section even if we already went to the outdoor section then go up again to the outdoor section or is it once we go down one floor we can't go back up? Thankssssss :)
Shibuya is a little far from Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Toranomon and Azabu district, so the skyscrapers in those areas appear smaller than they really are. That's how big Tokyo is. Also, the Tokyo Torch Tower is scheduled to be completed in front of Tokyo Station in fite years.
The scale of Tokyo really is amazing - and how it goes on for as far as you can see in every direction. Looking forward to seeing Tokyo Torch Tower completed.
hmmm,... these places seem so artificial to me,... kind of just meant for foreign tourists,.... even Japanese directors when they want to film real " low town " Tokyo will go to Yanaka Ginza ...
@towada1066 It is true that modern buildings and their surrounding environments may seem artificial. The human relationships and emotional streets of Tokyo's downtown area are enough to make people happy. Tokyo is a city that values tradition and elegance, but also evolves day by day, blending old and new.
@@真季野口 Actually it's kind of interesting,.... many of the people in Tokyo never grew up there. Low town wards are probably what's left of " tradition " but they're definitely not elegant. So much of tradition was destroyed during Meiji Era so I guess if you're looking for this kind of stuff maybe Kyoto is best,... but then, people in Kyoto look down on the rest of Japan. Anyway, I think Tokyo is just a hot mess of a city with too much prostitution (especially in Kamata ... )
@towada1066 Your thoughts are prejudice. Tokyo is not full of prostitution. It is held only on some streets. The cultures of Kyoto and Tokyo (Edo) are fundamentally different in terms of their origins, forms of prosperity, status and class of the people surrounding them, and urban environments. The original form of today's large-scale commercial facilities in Tokyo evolved from the merchant culture of the Edo period. Although their eras and scales are vastly different, Asakusa, Togoshi Ginza, and Yanaka etc...are towns that still overflow with the essence of the townspeople " Iki" that have been passed down since the Edo period. I call that style elegant, and it is still evolving in modern Tokyo.
By far the most comprehensive video I've found on Sh. Sky, thank you!!!
Thanks! Hope it helps - enjoy Shibuya Sky!
I love how clean all the glass looked for the perfect view.
They must get through a lot of Windowlene! 😂
We bought tickets for 4:20- 4:40 entrance to be there for the sunset but when we got up there wasn’t any seats left & people were all sitting at every window waiting for sunset (which wasn’t until 5:55) The top floor was closed due to high winds. You were supposed to have a drink to sit in the bar area but most people were nursing empty glasses. Once it got close to sunset there was a scramble to see it. Once it gets dark taking photos is difficult as there’s video displays opposite the glass with reflections.
Thanks for sharing your experiences - sunset is the most popular time to go, understandably, as it must be beautiful (if you can get a good view!).
I was thinking of going during sunset as well. Thanks for sharing your experience. If you buy tickets for 4:20 to 4:40 does that mean you have to show up at that time or can you be late or early? Is there a line before check-in that may cause you to be late? My fear is if it's a 4:20 to 4:40 ticket the line may be long so I'll miss it or if I line up early I'm too early and just have to keep waving people by.
@@quidamsj we were on time so there wasn’t any issues with long lines, if I remember correctly it wasn’t that busy going up & it was a shock as to how many people were already up there. If you have plenty of time to waste I’d go up much earlier & claim your space next to a window & if in a group have some seats in the bar area & sit in the window facing west for the sunset.🌅
One of my favorite observation deck
I think it might be mine too, in Tokyo.
Hi Cakes with Faces. Me and my wife visited Shibuya SKY in January. We bought tickets online with time of entrance at 10AM. It was quite windy at the top level, but it was open so all good. The view was fantastic and we could see Fuji-san easily, and the rest of the very large city of Tokyo. We spent a lot of time at the next floor down from the observation deck, had a snack and a beer and enjoyed the great view. Later my wife enjoyed the many floors with shops 🙂 Before we left we had dinner at a restaurant with view down at the Scramble Square Crossing. We had a great time in Shibuya, and will go back there next time we visit Tokyo.
Sounds good! Glad you enjoyed the benefits of visiting in the off-season in January: Fuji views and low crowds!
Hi I just wanted to ask if were allowed to go the cafe in the indoor section even if we already went to the outdoor section then go up again to the outdoor section or is it once we go down one floor we can't go back up? Thankssssss :)
Nice "overview" Amy! We're glad you included the options, because it is amazing what you can experience for free.
It's fantastic there's a free option when there are so many observation decks in Tokyo!
There's also the Bunkyo Civic Center, also totally free :) Observation deck 25 floors up. Not as high up as Shibuya Sky but it has a very nice view of the highrise silhouette of Shinjuku.
Thanks for the recommendation, that's a great tip!
Thanks, Amy! :)
Enjoy!! 🎶
Definitely worth a visit. Nice presentation.
Thanks so much! Such a clear view!
we where this past fall and shibuya sky and tokyo sky tree are my favorites, we did tokyo tower also but i found it to small for the amount of people that went, awsome memories when watching this video thank you for the update
That's a good point about the newer observation decks being so much more spacious, and built for more people. Glad it brought back happy memories! :-)
Thanks for the video - really helpful!
Thanks, glad you liked it!
This is an absolutely must. At night is so amazing. We went up last November and we got online tickets the same day. When we arrived we discovered that it was lunar eclipse. Crazy. Of course there were many people and the bar was open but booked.
Wow that's really lucky timing! That sounds like an amazing experience!
Hi I just wanted to ask if were allowed to go the cafe in the indoor section even if we already went to the outdoor section then go up again to the outdoor section or is it once we go down one floor we can't go back up? Thankssssss :)
Yes!I visited Shibuya sky in June the views where absolutely amazing! I plan on visiting japan again in march 2024 as i was unable to fit everything in on my first trip and of course it was a very wet month to travel!
Oh no, you got the rainy season! I know that feeling - there's always more to see, to keep me coming back!
Hi I just wanted to ask if were allowed to go the cafe in the indoor section even if we already went to the outdoor section then go up again to the outdoor section or is it once we go down one floor we can't go back up? Thankssssss :)
Was just there a couple weeks ago and it was a clear sky and just beautiful. Made me truly realize how massive Tokyo is and could even see Fuji-san since the sky was clear as well as what I assume was Yokohama. And with it being very inexpensive for an observation deck (at least compared to the ones in America) and easy to book online, it’s definitely a must if you’re in Shibuya which you most likely will. There’s also amazing restaurants on the 13th floor as well as other floors in the building
That sounds fantastic - you're lucky to get such a clear view of Mount Fuji. There's something about going to an observation deck that really makes you feel like you're in Tokyo. I can never believe how huge Tokyo is too!
@@cakeswithfaces It was a main reason why I went in mid to late November since I wanted to take a clear picture of Mount Fuji in Fujiyoshida! I'm from Chicago and I'm used to being in a very populated area but the scale of Tokyo really blew me away
@@emssasukeisunderrated7946 Oh that's a fantastic view from Fujiyoshida! 😍 I'd love to visit Chicago one day!
that's breathtakingly beautiful... I'll enjoy it from the lens of a camera though. :}
Enjoy the vicarious travel & views!
Oh sweet Kami the food! I am amazed you were able to film up there as the wind and all but you got it done.
I had to give Phil the camera so I could keep hold of my dress! 🙈🙈
👀💖✨👍👍👍👍👍
It was good to see Mount Fuji. 🤗
It was very lucky it was so clear!
Thanks for the tip. This is by far our favorite lookout spot in Tokyo now. So much better than Sky Tree!
I really enjoyed it!You can tell it's purpose-built as an observation deck. It's good being a lot closer to the city than the where the SkyTree is out on the edge.
Awesome job Amy thumb up
Thank you 🤗
Thanks for nice video. Great views from Shibuya Sky and this is now my favourite observation deck in Tokyo. I booked my ticket 4 weeks in advance and took a chance the weather was going to be good 😊
Glad you enjoyed it too! I think it's my fav so far too!
The roof top bar is also open during some other times of the year. I was there in November 2022 and it was open. An American tourist got thrown out because he was drunk and extremely inappropriate. I won't lie, it was good fun to watch. 🙃
As far as which observation deck is the best in Tokyo, I'd say this one or the Government building if you're after a free one. This one is the best in my opinion though. Part of the experience is being able to see all the major buildings and attractions like Skytree and Tokyo Tower, which you can't do if you're in their own observatories.
That does sound amusing, if you're not involved...!! Glad you enjoyed Shibuya Sky too! (and not just because of the extra entertainment..!)
Hi I just wanted to ask if were allowed to go the cafe in the indoor section even if we already went to the outdoor section then go up again to the outdoor section or is it once we go down one floor we can't go back up? Thankssssss :)
Excellent video ... great for those of us planning to come back to visit! A plus that you are vegan ... I just found you, but will be checking in often.
Thanks so much! It's exciting to visit new things that have opened since your last trip!
Here's my list of restaurants in Tokyo with veggie options (I travel with meat eaters so need places that cater for us both, which is the hardest!) cakeswithfaces.co.uk/japan/vegetarian-restaurants-in-japan/
I thought the line to the ticket counter would be more inherently obvious than when I went there as I got lost in the square building that had different elevators and escalators and thought maybe one of them went up to the viewing. But to my surprised I kept passing it by as it was just right next to the automatic glass doors coming from scramble crossing. So I still never went up.
Ah, I know what you mean - Shibuya Scramble Square's a whole department store! I found Shibuya quite tricky to navigate too (it's where my hotel was this time) - lots of lifts and escalators and you keep getting sucked into a department store! Hoping it'll be less confusing once all the building work's finished.
Good timings are all taken. Wondering if I should bother to go in the afternoon.
The daytime view's still stunning - no twinkly lights but you can see all the buildings more clearly, and there's a chance of a Mount Fuji view! You could always go to the Metropolitan Government Building (free) at sunset or night time as well.
you are my specialz.
When you mention about the ‘off season’ can you elaborate on when in the year the busiest seasons are in Tokyo? Thanks
Here are the busiest times of year:
- Cherry blossom season, particularly the last 2 weeks of March, which are also the holidays in Japan, and the first week of April.
- Golden Week: End of April/start of May. Most people in Japan have the week off and travel domestically, so it's very busy.
- Autumn leaves time in November.
In general, the winter months when it's colder are the off-season and will always be quieter - except for Hokkaido at snow festival time when lots of people want to go there.
@@cakeswithfaces Thank you for the detailed reply, very helpful.
My first trip to Tokyo is in a couple of weeks so looks like it’s outside the busiest times which is good.
I’m loving your videos they have been really helpful, so much to think about!!
@@BeatOfTheStreet Thanks so much! I've been at the very start of October and it's lovely and warm, and lots of cute Halloween stuff!
ive been here twice for fluffy pancakes only. always right before catching the flight home. but never explored this area of the city.
Hehe, it's good to have a tradition - especially when it's a fluffy pancake tradition! Most of Shibuya is a LOT of shopping - and of course the famous scramble crossing.
Hi I just wanted to ask if were allowed to go the cafe in the indoor section even if we already went to the outdoor section then go up again to the outdoor section or is it once we go down one floor we can't go back up? Thankssssss :)
All that food does look good ..ahwell of to lidl's bread section haha
Tbf Lidl's fresh bakery isn't bad for the UK! But in Japan there are always different options you haven't heard of before.
Defo book well in advance we visited for a week in late April and then came back in June and there were no tickets both times. I think tourism really started to pick back up. We did get up Tokyo Tower and the Metro building though. Both were really good and good value (metro being free!).
Oh wow, I must have been lucky in February! Can't get better value than the Metropolitan Government Building! 😝
I went in early April, I did get in but I had to book a couple of days in advance. I tried going there in the morning one day and there was no chance. I did Tokyo Tower the same time and I could have got in there without a ticket, but it was a lot faster with one than without.
I arrived about 40 minutes early and I was told I could come back, which was weird advice as it took ages to get in via the lift. I just waited and so did everyone else
@@cakeswithfaces yeah I think you just made it in the sweet spot as the tourists are back now! The Metro is cool - but you have to watch out for it being closed - we made the trip over there to find it was closed for the day so had to go back another day.
@@anthonymorgan2001 Things can be quite strict in Japan about times - it's not a place where things are usually flexible! Glad you got into both!
Can you go to the rooftop with an admission ticket?
Yes - the admission ticket includes the rooftop, outside deck and the floor below, which is the indoor deck with the cafe and shop.
@cakeswithfaces bought a copy of your Japan guide and loving it so far.
I’ve got Shibuya Sky, Skytree and the Government Metropolitan building on my itinerary. Is it worth doing all three or is that overkill?
So glad you're enjoying my book! I'd say make your own rules - if you want to do all three, there's no reason why not! The SkyTree's (literally) on another level so it's different. The other two are more centrally located, while the SkyTree's on the edge of the city. I always think it's nice to do one during the day and another at night - which is why the Government Building makes a nice free extra! Shibuya Sky is better than the Government Building though, because there are no window frames, and it's a much clearer view, especially at night when there are a lot of reflections in the Government Building, from the shop and cafe that's in the middle of the floor. But it's free so you can't complain! Maybe do your favourite first, then go to the others as well if you feel like you want to take in more views!
Hi! I'll be traveling to Japan next year from April 23 to May 4 (yes, during golden week 😅) its my second time there but my first time experiencing golden week. Just wondering if tokyo is as bad as people say it is in terms of crowds? Or is it fairly manageable if I would be starting my days early?
I've always avoided Golden Week so I can't say from experience! My 2020 trip was going to be during Golden Week (the flights used to be cheaper then) but obv it got cancelled. Some say that Tokyo isn't too bad because people tend to leave the city for out of town breaks. But I've also heard that touristy places can be very busy eg the SkyTree and Tokyo Disney, so maybe plan to visit anywhere like that before it gets going. It's also very busy on the shinkansen and long distance trains. You'll have to let me know how it is - the bonus is you'll get to enjoy the festivals during Golden Week and see all the beautiful carp streamers for Children's Day.
Fuji Television Observation Deck, which is cheap, not crowded, and has a panoramic view of the Tokyo skyline, is a hidden gem.😄
Is that the one in Odaiba? I love the name hachitama, it sounds so cute!
Yes! That is the one in Odaiba. Taking a monorail from Shimbashi to Odaiba at Fuji TV Media Building.
@@evicencio31863 I've been in the building but not been up to the observation deck. I can imagine it's a great view of Tokyo bay.
How do we get into the actual building? When researching on google maps it takes me to a random street.. the stress! I love how comprehensive this is!
I find Shibuya quite tricky to navigate sometimes, especially around the station, and with all the construction work going on. When you arrive at the station, the easiest way is to follow signs for Shibuya Scramble Square. That's the name of the building that Shibuya Sky's in. (I mistakenly thought Scramble Square = Hachiko Square with the famous crosswalks at first, but that's not the case!). Shibuya Sky's at the top of Shibuya Scramble Square. Be aware that sometimes not all elevators will go up to that level, some may belong to a department store or mall within the building and only serve those floors, but just keep going up and keep a look-out for signs!
There are also instructions on their official site from the various train lines. You want to head to exit B6: www.shibuya-scramble-square.com.e.apy.hp.transer.com/access/
Is it possible to return to the locker after you've had a look at the view? The reason is, I like taking different types of photos with different lenses. I would like to shoot a wide angle to get as much of the view as possible, then go down and switch lenses to a telephoto so I can zoom in and capture specific details and buildings.
I thiiiink you can. Not absolutely 100% sure, but as I remember, the entrance to the lockers is in the same area as the door to go outside and up to the roof deck, and the entrance to the indoor observation deck, shop, etc, and I think you can walk freely between them once you've gone through the ticket gates and up to that level.
Hello thank you very much! The video is very informative. Could you tell me the name of the restaurant where you saw this super cool Shibuya Crossing visa, please?
Thank you in advance!
The view's from a floor in the shopping mall below the entrance to Shibuya Sky. There's a gap in the restaurants with some benches and a large window.
@@cakeswithfaces thank you!!! 😊
If you go from the top floor to the enclosed floor are you allowed to go back up again?
I thiiiiink so - the ticket gates are on the lower floor before you go up in the lift. I *think* once you're up there you're free to roam around the locker room, go up to the top deck and the inside floor.
Awesome vid, somehow nobody likes to say what floor it's on lol 😅
It can be difficult to remember...! 😂😂
Hi, thanks so much for making this video! Looks like you got some really nice weather and daytime views. I got to go a few months ago in June, and so glad it was a clear evening at sunset. And the nighttime views omg! I got the couch with drinks & snacks package, which was amazing. My only regret is not having the ticket QR code to hand, so I lost some time trying to find it in my emails (the time in the couch section is limited). Other than that, I absolutely loved the experience!
That sounds fantastic! You're lucky to have got a spot at sunset, they sell out the quickest! I love how warm and summery it is in Japan in June - the start of June's one of my fav times to go! Although I was surprised how nice it was at the end of Feb.
Looks nice now there. Last time I went they had construction work everywhere. Looks like they finished all of that.
Awesome view. Not sure my fear of heights would play well with open air roof section. xD You can go to the indoor section without having to pass through the roof area right?
A bit on the pricy side but offering a nice view is also the bar at the Park Hyatt hotel. Not the cheapest place for a drink, but I love the blinking red lights at night. :)
Yes they must have finished the construction! Still lots of work going on around Shibuya and the station though, lots of construction walls.
The indoors part is on the same level as the lockers, so yes, I think you could just go straight into that if you don't want to go on the open air deck. It is quite intense tbh!
I'd love to try the Park Hyatt bar! They say the high price of drinks somewhere like that is the equivalent of your admission fee at an observation deck.
@@cakeswithfaces That's good to know. It looked intense yes, especially with the wind.
Depending on the drink yes. A beer is "only" about 8 Euros, whisky, wine, cocktail in the region of the observation deck price depending on how fancy they are. The exchange rate helps a lot because that's not far off from what a drink costs here in a normal bar where a beer is 6-7 Euros. :D For Japanese prices it is pricy yes where I usually paid for a beer half that price.
@@cidiracing7481 That makes sense - it's not surprising you'd pay more somewhere like that. But the same here in the UK - prices can often be that high anyway, especially in London!
Is there any time limit that you can stay on the deck?
No - entry is timed, but once you're up there you can stay as long as you like (until they close I guess!!). :-)
@@cakeswithfaces thank you 🌹
¥2,700 is the same administration price like 'Tokyo Sky Tree' because I have that.
Enjoy the SkyTree!
@@cakeswithfaces I did, and I purchased 'ice cream cone' only ¥💯.
Nice video! Quick question, can you bring a phone gimbal to Shibuya sky?
I'm not sure - it said no tripods, and they have guidelines that cameras must have a neck strap or be pocket sized, and you're allowed to take your phone, but it didn't say anything about gimbals. If it's not too big, you might be able to get away with it - and if not you'd easily be able to turn back and put it in the lockers. Basically they don't let you take anything that could possibly fly off the edge, for safety!
Hiya, once you've been to the rooftop, are you able to get back to the lockers (ie to change camera lens) and then walk back up to the rooftop?
I thiiiiink so. When you go in, there's a small hallway with the entrance to the locker room, the door to outside to go up to the rooftop and the entrance to the inside level. I thiiiink you can walk freely around them - you'd be able to easily see when you arrive if there are any barriers that would stop you doing that.
Hi I just wanted to ask if were allowed to go the cafe in the indoor section even if we already went to the outdoor section then go up again to the outdoor section or is it once we go down one floor we can't go back up? Thankssssss :)
I'm not sure... the ticket gates are before the lift (on the same level as the counter where you buy tickets) so they wouldn't stop you. But it might just be escalators that take you up and down between in the level with the indoor deck and the top outdoor deck, which would stop you going back between them. Tbh I'm not sure if there's another way, or if you'd be able to go back round in the hallway where the lockers are. Sorry to not be more helpful!
are there any areas where tripods are allowed? i would love to take some pics but i’m travelling alone
Tripods aren't allowed on the rooftop I'm afraid. You might be able to take one into the indoors level below - I think the rules were just for safety on the rooftop deck. I'm sure you'd be able to ask other people to take photos of you there - everyone would understand you want photos as a souvenir. :-) There's also one corner where the glass walls are slightly lower, where they were taking professional photos, which I think you have to pay for.
Thank you for yet another useful guide video. I purchased my Shibuya Sky ticket a while agon online for sunset time. Although I read the homepage I was not aware selfie sticks and tripods are not allowed. What a bummer.
Hopefully you can find a table or ledge to lean on to get some good photos! Enjoy the sunset from up there - it'll be stunning I'm sure!
I just be there
Amazing view to look at
Blow your mind
🏙🏯🇯🇵
Come to see Japan Every body
amazing People at Japan
🤩🧳✈️🛩🛫🛬 🌏🍜🍣
Glad you enjoyed it too! There's nothing like the view of Tokyo, as far as you can see in every direction.
Nice Video...BTW is it OK to visit Shibuya Sky on the 2nd week of December?
Yes it's open all year round! :-)
@@cakeswithfaces Thanks for the info...
1:09 His hat is so cute! Is that one of your products by any chance? 😅
Edit: It's only a 10 minute walk from my hotel! わくわく!
Phil's cap's from Tokidoki (my fav designer, so that's a compliment!), it's a collab with Aggretsuko. Enjoy Shibuya Sky - sounds like your hotel's in a great location! :-)
Hello! Is it possible If I bought tickets at sunset for Shibuya sky at the place itself?
Sunset is the most popular time to go, so I think you'd need to book in advance. Even when I went at the end of Feb (a quiet time of year), sunset was sold out, but other times of day were available. You can book tickets in english on their official website.
@@cakeswithfaces thank you!
Not convinced that those glass walls are high enough to prevent 6 foot plus long armers reaching the top.
It's a long way down...
How long are we allowed to stay on the roof?
As long as you like! Well, until it closes, I guess...! The entry time is set by your ticket but there are no rules about how long you can stay once you're in.
@@cakeswithfaces thank you so much
I would add to the list of not to do : screaming like gojira , use a the laser attack of gojira , no fly zone for supman , no Ultraman transformation.....
That would definitely be a faux pas!
do I need a ticket in advance?
I bought a ticket on the day, but if you're going at a busy time of year you may want to get a ticket in advance. If you want to go at sunset, you'll need to buy a ticket in advance as that's the most popular time and sells out first. You can check availability on the official website, if you go through the booking process.
trying to book a ticket for september. only availability is up to sept 15th?
You can only book a month in advance, so check back soon!
@@cakeswithfaces thanks for the info
How much was it? How long for?
Ticket prices are in the video. :-) Once you're in, you can stay as long as you want to.
@@cakeswithfaces Thanks! 2200 yen (£12?) for adults. I'm going there for my birthday (November 9th) so I wanna book it in advance for a group and I.
@@mariotaz You can book tickets on their official website. Great idea for a birthday trip! Have fun!
@@cakeswithfaces よし！
Wow 😮 Amy, it looks amazing 😍
I loved it! Nothing like seeing that view of Tokyo going on as far as you can see in every direction. 😍
@@cakeswithfaces I'll have to add it to my Japan bucket list (which is getting longer 😂).
@@MissiBoo Hehe I know that problem!! 😂
@@cakeswithfaces 😂😂😂
I have also for weekdays "Breakfast-Lunch" at APA Hotel 🏩 Asakusa-Kumarae worth ¥1,200 - ¥1,400.
Itadakimasu!
I think the observation deck at the Mori Tower is way better
Good to know! I'm going to have to do a proper comparison now and go to them all! Do you say that because of its location?
@@cakeswithfaces I think maybe the location is better. I do love Shibuya sky as well. There’s something about being on the roof of the Mori with no glass between you and the view a bit more special. The museum always has pretty amazing exhibitions on as well. Shibuya Sky is a lot larger though. I didn’t like the glass because it made it hard to take photos
@@timothycrespin6836 All good points, thank you! It's good that you can visit the exhibitions in Roppongi too.
no thank you
Not a fan of heights?
@@cakeswithfaces nah
Hii, do we have time limitations or can we stay as long as we want?
You can stay as long as you want, it's just the time you go in that's set by your ticket.
Thanks for the video and especially for the tips about whether or not buying them in advance! Do You know the availability for the "champagne couch" and how far in advance do You need to book for it?
The couches are along one side of the rooftop deck (you can see them in the video thumbnail!). There aren't that many, so you'd need to book them early. You can check availability if you follow the link to book tickets on the official site - right now they're fully booked until the first week of September, and only the earliest time's still available for that week.
@@cakeswithfaces I see: it seems You can only book one month in advance....
@@axios101 Yes, the same as for regular tickets. Mark the date on your calendar when you can book!
In August it’s very crowded. Took 30min to get down. 😢
Oh no, sorry to hear that. It'll be because it's Obon week, a major holiday in Japan.
Hi I just wanted to ask if were allowed to go the cafe in the indoor section even if we already went to the outdoor section then go up again to the outdoor section or is it once we go down one floor we can't go back up? Thankssssss :)
Been there today. You couldn’t walk around. Bar area and photo spot we’re reserved for paying customers. 😢
Right now it's the holidays in Japan for Obon, so that'll be why it's so busy. Hope you could enjoy it anyway!
Shibuya is a little far from Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Toranomon and Azabu district, so the skyscrapers in those areas appear smaller than they really are. That's how big Tokyo is.
Also, the Tokyo Torch Tower is scheduled to be completed in front of Tokyo Station in fite years.
The scale of Tokyo really is amazing - and how it goes on for as far as you can see in every direction. Looking forward to seeing Tokyo Torch Tower completed.
hmmm,... these places seem so artificial to me,... kind of just meant for foreign tourists,.... even Japanese directors when they want to film real " low town " Tokyo will go to Yanaka Ginza ...
@towada1066
It is true that modern buildings and their surrounding environments may seem artificial.
The human relationships and emotional streets of Tokyo's downtown area are enough to make people happy.
Tokyo is a city that values tradition and elegance, but also evolves day by day, blending old and new.
@@真季野口 Actually it's kind of interesting,.... many of the people in Tokyo never grew up there. Low town wards are probably what's left of " tradition " but they're definitely not elegant. So much of tradition was destroyed during Meiji Era so I guess if you're looking for this kind of stuff maybe Kyoto is best,... but then, people in Kyoto look down on the rest of Japan. Anyway, I think Tokyo is just a hot mess of a city with too much prostitution (especially in Kamata ... )
@towada1066
Your thoughts are prejudice.
Tokyo is not full of prostitution. It is held only on some streets.
The cultures of Kyoto and Tokyo (Edo) are fundamentally different in terms of their origins, forms of prosperity, status and class of the people surrounding them, and urban environments. The original form of today's large-scale commercial facilities in Tokyo evolved from the merchant culture of the Edo period. Although their eras and scales are vastly different, Asakusa, Togoshi Ginza, and Yanaka etc...are towns that still overflow with the essence of the townspeople " Iki" that have been passed down since the Edo period. I call that style elegant, and it is still evolving in modern Tokyo.