Shinjuku travel guide
Best Selfie & Photo Spots in Shinjuku
The best free view in Shinjuku is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observatory, 202 metres up on the 45th floor. On clear winter days Mount Fuji is visible; sunsets over the skyscraper district are spectacular. Both towers are free, open until 10pm.
Photographing Shinjuku
Shinjuku is the Tokyo of the movies — and it photographs like it. Neon canyons, a free 45th-floor observatory and alleys that look unchanged since 1950.
The best photo & selfie spots in Shinjuku
-
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Free 202m observatory with Fuji on clear days.
Best time to shoot: Clear winter mornings or sunset
Pro tip: South tower is usually quieter; check visibility forecasts
Coordinates: 35.6896, 139.6917
-
Kabukicho Ichibangai gate
The red neon gateway to Tokyo’s nightlife district.
Best time to shoot: After dark, rain adds reflections
Pro tip: Shoot from across the street for the full gate and crowds
Coordinates: 35.6951, 139.7028
-
Golden Gai
Six alleys of 200 tiny bars, pure atmosphere.
Best time to shoot: Blue hour as lanterns light
Pro tip: Many bars welcome photos outside; always ask before shooting inside
Coordinates: 35.6938, 139.7048
-
Shinjuku Gyoen
Cherry blossoms and skyline framed by lawns.
Best time to shoot: Late March–April, or autumn colour
Pro tip: The Taiwanese Pavilion bridges garden and skyscraper shots
Coordinates: 35.6852, 139.7100
Also in tokyo
best selfie spots in Shinjuku — FAQs
What is the best free view in Shinjuku?
The best free view in Shinjuku is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observatory, 202 metres up on the 45th floor. On clear winter days Mount Fuji is visible; sunsets over the skyscraper district are spectacular. Both towers are free, open until 10pm.
Last reviewed and updated: by the AmazingAsia editorial team. See our editorial policy.