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11/11 23:02 CST Top of Tokyo: Observation decks offer panoramic city views
Top of Tokyo: Observation decks offer panoramic city views
By JAE C. HONG
Associated Press
TOKYO (AP) --- Tokyo is a gigantic concrete jungle built on layers of tradition
and culture. It's difficult to grasp the enormity of Japan's capital in just a
few days.
One way to gain some perspective on the complex city is to get above it --- way
above it.
Skip the sidewalks and subways and take an elevator to any one of the
observation decks that dot the cityscape for a stunning vista. No two perches
offer the same view, but they are all spectacular.
Greeted with a bow by the elevator operator, take a ride up to the top of some
structures for as much as $30 a trip. But the Tokyo Metropolitan Government
building's observation deck is free. The 48-story office is surrounded by
Shinjuku district's skyscrapers. The view is more intimate than from most other
observatories.
Try the panoramic views from Tokyo Tower --- an homage to the Eifel Tower that
was built in 1958 to signify Japan's economic revival --- where you can take a
selfie with Mt. Fuji in the background on a clear day. Lean in and look down on
the traffic patterns of the famed Shibuya crossing from the 46th floor of the
East Tower of slick new Shibuya Scramble Square.
Or just pick a spot and watch one of Japan's spectacular sunsets beyond the
glass, steel and concrete horizon.
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