Is Shibuya Sky Worth Visiting?

Yes, I think Shibuya Sky is an affordable viewpoint that you can visit in Tokyo. I think it’s an experience for first time visitors in Tokyo, and gives great views but there isn’t a huge amount to do beyond the view and the escalators.

However I would only go back again if I could get the sunset timeslot. And the weather has a big impact on how enjoyable the experience is.

Arriving at Shibuya Sky

My tickets were allocated for 10:20am, so I didn’t feel the pressure to wake up too early. But it was my final morning and I wanted to make the most of my time left. I spent an hour or so exploring Shibuya, and visiting the famous street crossing (which felt a little underwhelming). 

I arrived on time to find a queue, but it moved relatively quickly. Our tickets were digital and I had it open in advance so the process was seamless. 

The Sky Gate Experience

The Sky Gate was our entrance to the experience, and we would be ascending by lift. Japan loves thematic lifts. A few days prior I had been going up Osaka Tower and the ceiling had a screen showing the tower taking off like a rocket or blowing up, I’m still not entirely sure which. 

It was similar here, but much  more comforting. Showing you ascend through what seemed like space. The doors would open into a dark corridor, with an escalator at the end. This was a cool feature, as you would literally ascend from darkness into the light. At the top of which was the entrance to the Sky Stage. 

There were also lockers, the gift shop and the Sky Gallery, but the first thing you saw was the doors outside so this did have the biggest impact.

Visiting the Sky Stage

This was the first of the areas I explored, and it’s the main reason everyone comes. You do have to put bags and cameras into lockers before being allowed outside. Rather frustratingly I wasn’t allowed to bring my DJI for video, but I was allowed my Sony as it was on a neck strap. 

You step out the doors to a view of the city. The corner was already busy with people taking family photos or selfies. Either side though you have two escalators, which was what I was excited for. I had seen so many videos on social media of people riding them up to staggering views, I couldn’t wait. 

This selfie spot was directly above Shibuya Square, but you’re so high up you don’t have the best view of it. You actually get a better angle from the floor below which I would explore later.

Unfortunately as I wasn’t able to secure a time slot, the views weren’t as good. But still beautiful. We did have a little bit of cloud, and you could see the weather was about to take a turn. 

Selfie Points

One thing I love about attractions in Japan, is that many have selfie points for solo travelling. Tripods are not allowed here, but they understand people will be travelling solo and will want photos of themselves. So they have a dedicated selfie station, designed to prop your phone whilst you set it to the timer.

Views Over Shibuya Crossing

After enjoying the Sky Stage, I went downstairs to check out the Sky Gallery. The rain was still holding off at this point, but it was nice to take a step inside. Here I found artwork all designed around Shibuya. 

But my main focus again was on the views. Here I found the perfect spot to sit down against the glass, and could overlook Shibuya Crossing without disturbing anyone. Allowing me the opportunity to capture the overhead shots I desperately wanted. 

Exploring the Sky Gallery more, I found a cosy little bar and restaurant. It was quiet, with most people above me on the stage. Unfortunately because of time constraints I didn’t get to eat here, but it was a nice surprise.

Of course like every attraction, there has to be a gift shop, and I found this one to be surprising. I have been to so many that are filled with tat that will break before you get it home. But this one actually seemed good for once. Everything felt high quality, and there were items beyond what you would expect to find. I just got a postcard, but it was refreshing to shop in.

Visiting Shibuya Sky at 10am

My time slot at 10:20am was great for numerous reasons. Shibuya Sky will always be busy, but coming far from Sunset did give me a little bit more space. I was able to record a video on the escalator without anyone else being shot and not disturbing anyone either. 

The lighting was great at times, as it wouldn’t have been as intense as midday. My only issue was we had cloudy skies and rain was on its way, with specks of rain occasionally gracing my forehead. Still the weather was cool and comfortable, and I found the experience enjoyable.