BEST TIME TO VISIT SHIBUYA SKY AT SHIBUYA SCRAMBLE SQUARE ON A TOKYO TOUR
Photo credit: @shibuya_scramble_square (a view of the Shibuya Scramble Square Building)
If you plan on taking a Tokyo Tour, Shibuya Sky located on top of the Shibuya Scramble Square is a must visit!
The best time to visit the Shibuya Sky in Japan can vary depending on your preferences and what you want to experience.
Here are some considerations for different times of day:
Bonus point: Mt. Fuji visibility from Shibuya Sky at Scramble Square
MORNING:
If you want to see the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing with fewer crowds and a quieter atmosphere, consider visiting in the early morning, especially on weekdays. This is also a good time for photography, as you can capture the crossing without as many people in the frame.
Photo credit: Kazuo ota (view from the Shibuya Sky at Shibuya Scramble Square)
2. AFTERNOON
Shibuya Scramble Square houses a shopping complex, so having a tour in the afternoon allows you to explore the pop-ups, shops, restaurants, and entertainment options within the building.
Business hours:
Shops: 10:00AM - 9:00PM
Restaurants: 11:00AM - 11:00PM
*Depending on some stores*
For more information and upcoming events, visit: https://www.shibuya-scramble-square.com/shops_restaurants/index.html?category=shop
@shibuya_scramble_square: Moheji
@shibuya_scramble_square: Aoyama Flower Market
@shibuya_scramble_square: Stride by JOHNBULL
3. EVENING:
The Shibuya Crossing comes alive with vibrant neon lights and a bustling atmosphere in the evening. This is when you can witness the crossing at its busiest at the Shibuya Sky Observation Deck. It's also an excellent time for people-watching and soaking in the energetic atmosphere.
Photo credit: @jetjetdelacruz (Evening view from Shibuya Sky at Shibuya Scramble Square)
Photo credit:@shibuya_sky (Evening at Sky Stage of the Shibuya Sky)
4. NIGHT:
If you enjoy nighttime cityscape views, this time is best for you. You'll get a stunning panoramic view of Tokyo illuminated by city lights. After the sun has set, they have a special light show called “Crossing Light” where 18 beams illuminate the city sky. Nighttime visits can be more romantic and scenic.
5. WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS AND SPECIAL EVENTS:
Keep in mind that weekends and Japanese holidays tend to be busier than weekdays. If you visit Shibuya Sky on these days, the whole area of Shibuya will be busier than normal. Experiencing it at its most chaotic and lively, visiting during these times can be a unique experience.
Photo credit:@shibuya_sky (Performance of the “Fury in the Sky” in the SKY STAGE)
MT. FUJI VISIBILITY IN SHIBUYA SCRAMBLE SQUARE
While Shibuya Scramble Square offers fantastic panoramic views of Tokyo, including the Shibuya district and its surrounding areas, it's not typically known for providing a clear view of Mount Fuji. Mount Fuji is located quite a distance from Shibuya, approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) southwest of Tokyo.
The visibility of Mount Fuji from Shibuya Scramble Square largely depends on the weather conditions and atmospheric clarity on the day of your visit. On exceptionally clear and sunny days, it may be possible to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance.
If seeing Mount Fuji is a priority for your visit to Tokyo, it's generally recommended to travel closer to the mountain itself, such as to locations like the Fuji Five Lakes region or Hakone, which offer better opportunities for viewing Mount Fuji's iconic silhouette, especially on clear days. You can check out: https://hellotokyotours.com/private-hakone-tour for a Private Hakone Tour.
Two photos taken in the same location on two different Private Customised Tours. On a clear day (left photo), our guests could see Mout Fuji. On a cloudy / hazy day (right photo) our guests could not see Mount Fuji.