Rooftops in Japan: Tokyo seen from above
An archipelago between tradition and modernity
Japan stretches for more than three thousand kilometres off the coast of East Asia, across an archipelago of several thousand islands dominated by four main islands: Honshū, Hokkaidō, Kyūshū and Shikoku. Mountainous and often volcanic, it reaches its highest point at Mount Fuji, at 3,776 metres. With just under 123 million inhabitants, concentrated on narrow coastal plains, it is one of the most populous countries in the world.
Temples and shrines, gardens, gastronomy and ultra-modern cities attract travellers from all over the world. Tokyo, its capital, lies at the heart of the most populous urban area in the world.
Why head up to the rooftops
In Japan's big cities, life also unfolds vertically: at the top of the towers, hotel bars and terraces reveal panoramas over forests of skyscrapers, the sea or the mountains, and sunset is a special moment there, with a glass of Japanese whisky or sake in hand.
Tokyo, the first stop
A capital of skyscrapers
In Tokyo, the view is mostly enjoyed from behind the picture windows of the grand hotels, from the 33rd to the 52nd floor: above Shinjuku, Toranomon, Otemachi or Nihonbashi. Open-air terraces also top buildings in Shibuya and Ginza, and a restaurant occupies the Skytree at 345 metres. The views range from Tokyo Tower to the gardens of the Imperial Palace, as far as the bay and, on clear days, Mount Fuji.
Bars open all year round
Sheltered behind glass, most of Tokyo's high-rise bars stay open in every season. Open-air terraces, on the other hand, make the most of spring and autumn, and some close in winter; in summer, humid heat, the rainy season and typhoons are good reasons to check the weather before heading up.
Practical tips
Prices, service and dress code
Prices are displayed in yen, and many hotel bars add a service charge to the bill, sometimes an evening cover charge. Smart casual dress is often requested, and alcohol is only served to those aged 20 and over. For a table by the windows at sunset, book when possible.
