Hôtel de ville de Tokyo

**Optimal timing:** Arrive 45-60 minutes before sunset for prime viewing — the transition from day to dusk to night is spectacular. Sunset times vary seasonally: summer (19:00), spring/autumn (17:30), winter (16:30). The north tower's late hours (until 23:00) allow night city views without daytime crowds. Weekday mornings (9:30-11:00) are nearly empty for clear-day Mt. Fuji views. **Mt. Fuji visibility:** Fuji is visible 70-100 days per year, primarily winter (December-February, clearest air) and early mornings (before 10:00). Check live cameras (tokyo-panorama.com) before visiting. Even without Fuji, the Tokyo cityscape is impressive — the Shinjuku skyscraper cluster, Tokyo Skytree (10km east), and the Tokyo Bay area. **North vs. South Tower:** Both towers offer similar views from different orientations. North Tower (9:30-23:00) faces Tokyo Skytree and eastern Tokyo. South Tower (9:30-17:30) faces Tokyo Tower and southern Tokyo. North Tower is preferable for night views due to extended hours. Queues are rare except during peak tourist seasons (cherry blossom, autumn foliage). **Photography:** Bring a wide-angle lens (16-35mm) for panoramic shots. Tripods are prohibited. The windows are tinted — adjust white balance in post-processing. For night photography, use fast shutter speed to avoid reflections from interior lighting. The observation deck has cafe and souvenir shop (overpriced but convenient).