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Architecture Archive

The Vertical
Grid. 🏙️

West Shinjuku is a canyon of glass and steel. From free observation decks to hidden architectural marvels, explore the city from above.

The People's Palace

Metropolitan Gov. 🏛️

Often called "Tocho" by locals, this twin-towered giant designed by Kenzo Tange offers the best free views in Tokyo. It dominates the West Shinjuku skyline and looks like a futuristic cathedral.

South Deck

Best for night views. Open until 22:00 (10 PM). Features a "Memory Piano" anyone can play.

North Deck

Usually closes at 17:30. Best for daytime views of Mount Fuji if the air is clear.

🔭
FREE Entry Fee
Lost in Translation

Park Hyatt Tokyo. 🍸

The legend returns. After a major renovation, the Park Hyatt reopened in **December 2025**. The iconic New York Bar on the 52nd floor remains the ultimate spot for a jazz-fueled sunset drink.

The New York Bar

Famous for *Lost in Translation*. There is a cover charge (approx. ¥2,500) after 8 PM, but the live jazz and floor-to-ceiling views are worth every yen.

The Peak Lounge

Located on the 41st floor bamboo garden atrium. Perfect for a high-end "Afternoon Tea" if you want the views without the late-night bar vibe.

🕰️

World's Largest

Pendulum Clock

Architecture Secret

The Hollow Atrium. 🌉

Most tourists walk right past the **Shinjuku NS Building**, but inside is a stunning 30-story hollow atrium. It features a massive 29-meter pendulum clock and a terrifying "Sky Bridge" near the roof that you can walk across for free.

Why Visit?

It’s quiet, free, and offers a unique "internal" view of a skyscraper. Take the see-through elevator to the 29th floor for the bridge walk!

LOVE

Robert Indiana

Shinjuku i-Land

Street Level Icon

The Urban Heart. ❤️

At the base of the Shinjuku i-Land Tower stands the famous red "LOVE" sculpture by Robert Indiana. It is a striking splash of pop-art color against the grey steel of the financial district and a mandatory photo stop.

Myth & Legend:

Urban legend says if you can pass between the "V" and "E" without your body touching the sculpture, your romantic relationship will succeed!

Urban Design

Mode Gakuen Cocoon. 🕸️

You can't miss this building—it looks like a giant, woven alien cocoon. It is actually a fashion school! While you can't go up to the top, it is the most photogenic structure in West Shinjuku.

📸 Best Photo Spot

Stand at the pedestrian crosswalk near the Shinjuku Eye (underground entrance) for the best angle looking up at the criss-cross web structure.

The Best Perspective

The Green Base. 🌳

To truly appreciate the scale of the Vertical Grid, you need to step outside of it. **Shinjuku Central Park** sits directly behind the Metropolitan Government Building. It offers the best vantage point to photograph the skyline rising out of the forest.

Kumano Shrine

A traditional Shinto shrine hidden in the corner of the park. The contrast between the ancient wooden torii gates and the massive skyscrapers behind them is incredible.

Shuknova

A modern complex inside the park with a Starbucks and terrace dining. Sit here with a coffee and watch the Government Building change colors at sunset.