MUSUBI: Way Up High in Shibuya Sky

On November 1, 2019, Shibuya Scramble Square opened its doors to the Tokyo public and it immediately caught media attention — not for its famous location overlooking the Shibuya scramble crossing or the Hachiko statue — nor for its triumph in holding the title of being the tallest building in Shibuya, but for its top floor; the observation deck on floor 47.

“360 degree panoramic view” — that’s what made this building famous, but that isn’t the only thing that made the media buzz— it was the experience of being there altogether. First, you will need to purchase your ticket in the waiting area on the 14th floor. In here you will have a pleasant time observing the Shibuya crossing and admire the various commercial facilities surrounding the building.

Offline tickets generally costs 2,000 yen per person but pro-tip, purchase your tickets online and you’ll only need to pay 1,800 yen per head and save yourself the stress of waiting in long lines. The tickets are timed, so arrive to the waiting area 5-10 minutes before your ticket admission and you’ll be good to go.

After a few minutes of a funny feeling in your stomach and a ringing in your ears you will then arrive to the “Leading Line” on the 47th floor; a wide hallway that leads to the observation deck. It’s very bright in here which is such a contrast to all the pitch black walls on your way up — it somehow gives you a sense of relief. From here you will be asked to leave your valuables which may easily get carried away by the wind such as your hat, umbrella, bag or scarf. Most people we went with just brought their phones and cameras with them.

You will find four different spots inside the Observation deck namely: Crossing Light, Geo Compass, Cloud Hammock and Sky Edge. Each area has its own experience to offer. The Crossing Light is a long space filled with sofas facing outward where up to 6 people can sit at the same time. The Cloud Hammock is popular among kids and young adults while the Sky Edge is the most favorable space to take a photo for your social media feed.

Don’t forget to purchase your tickets from their official website: www.shibuya scramblesquare.com. The easiest access is from right above Shibuya Station; opening and closing times are from 9:00 A.M. until 11 P.M. with the final admission time being 10:00 in the evening.

Is it worth the buck? A thousand percent yes, I’ve even visited it twice since. It is that great of an experience whether, you are a sci-if lover or not. It makes you experience suspension of disbelief in real life — a feeling I’ve only felt while watching the Ballet or attending an Opera. Freedom of the mind and body in moderation is a beautiful concept, but sometimes totally letting go of reality for the sake of experience is exquisitely breathtaking.

Photo Credits:

Main Image: w.aoki

All additional images were provided by Zygel Doll Jamelano (used with permission)

An extended version of this article can be found on Zeefinity

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