Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

#japan The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (東京都庁舎, Tōkyō-to Chōsha), also referred to as the Tochō (都庁) for short, is the seat of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, which governs the special wards, cities, towns, and villages that constitute the Tokyo Metropolis. Located in Shinjuku ward, the building was designed by architect Kenzo Tange. It consists of a complex of three structures, each taking up a city block1. The tallest of the three is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building No.1, a tower 48 stories tall that splits into two sections at the 33rd floor. The building also has three levels below ground. The design of the building was meant to resemble an integrated circuit, while also evoking the look of a Gothic cathedral1. It is the tallest city hall in the world. The two panoramic observation decks, one in each tower on floor 45 (202 meters (663 ft) high), are free of charge to the public and contain gift shops and cafes. The two observation decks are open between 9:30 and 22:00 on alternating days.