Perched fifty-two floors above the city is the Rooftop Bar at Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills. It offers a view so cinematic you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped into the world of Blade Runner.
From this vantage point, with a drink in hand, you are literally on top of the world. The sprawling urban landscape of Tokyo unfolds beneath you, a mesmerizing panorama of light and shadow that beckons to be captured.
Views from a science fiction film
The resemblance to a futuristic movie scene is uncanny. You can almost imagine spinners from the film gliding through the air. I even considered adding them in with Photoshop to complete the picture. But then I wondered, would I need to add a layer of grit to match the hardboiled world Harrison Ford inhabited?
This view also sparks the imagination about the future. What will this skyline look like in the years to come? Tokyo is constantly evolving, so it will be interesting to see the changes. I hope I’m around to see some of them!
It wasn’t so long ago that some of the prominent buildings in this very photo, like the Nittele Tower, which was completed in 2003, didn’t exist. The cityscape is a living canvas, always changing.
Drink in the heart of Tokyo
Situated in Toranomon, the bar is at the center of Tokyo’s business district. With Nagatacho, the seat of the Japanese government, just a stone’s throw away, you get the feeling you’re in a prime position to observe the city’s pulse. At Andaz, you can do it all in complete comfort.
Capturing the city nightscape
As my photos show, the nighttime view is nothing short of spectacular, especially overlooking Shinbashi and parts of Tokyo Bay. The glittering city lights truly evoke a Blade Runner-esque atmosphere.
To get the full 360° experience, you typically need to move around the rooftop. Unfortunately, a private event was taking place during my visit, so I was unable to access the side with a view of Tokyo Tower.
Andaz Tokyo Rooftop Bar visitor information
- Address: Toranomon Hills Mori Tower 52nd floor, 1 Chome-23-4 Toranomon, Minato City, Tokyo
- Closest train stations
- JR Shimbashi Station – use JR Line Exit Karasumori
- Kasumigaseki Station via Chiyoda – use Exit A12
- Toranomon Hills Station via Hibiya Line – use Exit B1
- Toranomon Station via Ginza Line – use Exit B1
- Uchisaiwaicho Station on the Mita Line Exit – use Exit A3
- Opening hours
- Sunday – Thursday: 5 p.m. – 12 a.m.
- Food last order: 10 p.m.
- Drinks last order: 11:30 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 5 p.m. – 1 a.m.
- Food last order: 10 p.m.
- Drinks last order: 12:30 a.m.
- Sunday – Thursday: 5 p.m. – 12 a.m.
- For more information, consult the official Andaz Tokyo Rooftop Bar website.
- Here is the bar on Google Maps:
My photography gear for this shoot
- Camera body: Fujifilm X-T2
- Lens: XF 16-55mm F2.8 R LM WR
Is the rooftop bar worth a drink?
The Rooftop Bar at Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills is undeniably a fantastic spot for capturing the city’s beauty. Now, I have a little secret to share: I’ve only ever been there to take photographs, never to actually have a drink! It’s true. One day I plan to return to fully experience their hospitality.
For photographers and lovers of cityscapes, the Rooftop Bar at Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills delivers an unforgettable visual experience. The futuristic, sprawling views provide a unique perspective of the city, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to capture the essence of Tokyo at night.
While my visit was focused on photography, the allure of enjoying a drink against that stunning backdrop is undeniable. Have you been? I’d love to hear about your experience with the food and drinks in the comments below!
If you are looking for other places for a nighttime drink, check out Caretta Shiodome’s Sky Restaurants and Sky View observation windows.