![[Detective Conan] Countdown to Heaven – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Tokyo](https://anime-place.site/cms/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/autogen-2438-3688b195.jpg)
【Detective Conan】Countdown to Heaven – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (Tokyo)
The theatrical version of “Detective Conan: Countdown to Heaven,” released in 2001, is the 5th film in the Conan movie series. The Twin Tower Building in Nishitama City, which serves as the stage for this work, is said to be modeled after the actual Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. This article provides a must-see pilgrimage guide to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for Conan fans.
The Relationship Between “Countdown to Heaven” and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Modeling of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in the Work
The Twin Tower Building in Nishitama City that appears in “Countdown to Heaven” is depicted as twin super-high-rise buildings exceeding 300 meters in height. The design and structure of this building are believed to be modeled after the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building’s Main Building No. 1 and Building No. 2, located in Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, completed in 1991 and designed by Kenzo Tange, features the First Main Building at 48 stories above ground and 243 meters tall, centered around a distinctive twin tower structure that shares many common features with the building in the movie.
Movie Story and the Symbolism of the Government Building
In the movie, a completion celebration party is held at the Twin Tower Building, where a series of murders occur. The film reaches a shocking climax with the building being blown up. The setting of a super-high-rise building modeled after the government building is thought to have been chosen as a symbol of urban development and technological prowess in Japan at that time.
Basic Information about Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Location and Access
Address: 〒163-8001 2-8-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo
Nearest Stations:
- Directly connected to Toei Oedo Line “Tochomae Station”
- About 10 minutes’ walk from the west exit of “Shinjuku Station” (JR, Odakyu, Keio lines)
- About 8 minutes’ walk from “Nishi-Shinjuku Station” (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
Since it is directly connected to Tochomae Station, you can access it without getting wet even on rainy days. While you can also go from Shinjuku Station through underground passages, the above-ground route is easier to understand for first-timers.
Opening Hours and Closure Days
Observation Deck Opening Hours:
- South Observation Deck: 9:30 AM–10:00 PM (last entry 9:30 PM)
- North Observation Deck: 9:30 AM–5:30 PM (last entry 5:00 PM)
Closure Days:
- South Observation Deck: 1st and 3rd Tuesdays
- North Observation Deck: 2nd and 4th Mondays
※Open on national holidays; closed the following day
※Closed during year-end and New Year period (December 29 – January 3)
Admission: Free
Since observation deck admission is free, you can enjoy pilgrimage easily. However, entry restrictions may be imposed during peak hours, so it is recommended to visit with time to spare.
Recommended Pilgrimage Spots
1. Government Building Exterior (Twin Towers)
The greatest feature of Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is the twin tower structure of the First Main Building. You can photograph the exterior, which is said to be the model for the Twin Tower Building in the movie, from various angles.
Recommended Photography Points:
- Tochomae Plaza: A classic spot with a full view from the front
- Shinjuku Central Park: You can photograph the entire building from a distance
- Surrounding High-Rise Buildings in Nishi-Shinjuku: The angle of looking down at the building from nearby buildings is also appealing
Especially during twilight and nighttime when the building is illuminated, the beautifully lit government building creates an atmosphere reminiscent of scenes from the movie.
2. Observation Deck (45th Floor)
From the observation deck at a height of 202 meters above ground, you can see Tokyo’s cityscape in 360 degrees. In the movie, views from high-rise buildings are depicted impressively, and the experience of actually looking down at Tokyo from a similar height is extraordinary.
Highlights of the Observation Deck:
- Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree: On clear days, you can see both at the same time
- Mt. Fuji: Visible from the western windows on days when the air is clear
- Night View: The scenery is particularly beautiful during the transition from dusk to night
The observation deck also has a café and gift shop where you can spend time leisurely.
3. Government Building 1st Floor Lobby
The 1st floor lobby features a soaring ceiling, allowing you to experience the grandeur of the building. Try walking through the spacious area while imagining the party scenes in the movie.
Lobby Features:
- High ceilings and spacious area
- Information desk and Tokyo Tourist Information Center
- Limited-time exhibitions and events
4. Shinjuku Central Park
Shinjuku Central Park, adjacent to the government building, is an excellent location for photographing with the building in the background. The park has a lawn area and benches, making it an ideal resting spot.
Ways to Enjoy the Park:
- Taking commemorative photos with the building in the background
- Enjoying seasonal flowers and greenery on walks
- Relaxing on benches
Pilgrimage Photography Techniques
Tips for Exterior Photography
Photography Points by Time of Day:
- Morning (7:00 AM–9:00 AM): The building bathed in morning sunlight has a refreshing appearance. Few people, making it easy to photograph
- Daytime (11:00 AM–2:00 PM): The contrast between blue sky and building is beautiful
- Evening (4:00 PM–6:00 PM): The building dyed in sunset colors is mystical
- Night (6:00 PM onward): The illuminated building is closest to the movie’s atmosphere
Camera Setting Advice:
- Using a wide-angle lens makes it easier to capture the entire Twin Tower
- Vertical composition emphasizes height
- A tripod prevents camera shake during night photography
Photography from the Observation Deck
Since the observation deck windows are glass, efforts are needed to avoid reflections.
Reflection Countermeasures:
- Press the lens directly against the glass
- Cover the lens area with a black cloth or jacket
- Use a polarizing filter (if possible)
Recommended Photography Directions:
- East: Tokyo Skytree, Asakusa area
- South: Tokyo Tower, Roppongi Hills area
- West: Mt. Fuji (clear days), Shinjuku sub-center
- North: Ikebukuro area night view
Related Nearby Spots
Around Shinjuku Station
Around Shinjuku Station, there are scattered spots where you can feel the atmosphere of locations that appear in the Conan series.
Places Worth Visiting:
- Shinjuku Takashimaya: The department store atmosphere evokes everyday scenes from Conan
- Kabukicho: The night entertainment district atmosphere reminds you of crime scenes in Conan
- Shinjuku Gyoen: An urban oasis, ideal for taking a break
Anime and Manga Related Shops
Shinjuku has many anime merchandise shops where you can also find Conan goods.
Recommended Shops:
- Animate Shinjuku: 5 minutes’ walk from Shinjuku Station east exit
- Lashinban Shinjuku: Abundant used merchandise
- Mandarake Nakano: Located in Nakano, one station from Shinjuku on the Chuo Line
Pilgrimage Planning
Half-Day Course (3–4 hours)
9:30 Arrive at Tochomae Station
9:40 Government Building exterior photography (Tochomae Plaza)
10:00 Head to Observation Deck (South Deck recommended)
11:00 Café break in observation deck
11:30 Visit 1st floor lobby
12:00 Photography and break at Shinjuku Central Park
12:30 Lunch around Shinjuku Station
13:30 Anime shop tours in Shinjuku
Full-Day Course (6–8 hours)
9:30 Arrive at Tochomae Station
9:40 Government Building exterior photography (multiple angles)
10:30 Head to Observation Deck (South Deck)
12:00 Lunch at observation deck café
13:00 Shinjuku Central Park walk
14:00 Visit Shinjuku Gyoen
16:00 Café break around Shinjuku Station
17:00 Anime shop tours
18:30 Government Building exterior photography at dusk
19:30 Night view photography (observation deck or exterior)
Recommended Seasons
Spring (March–May):
- Cherry blossoms at Shinjuku Gyoen are beautiful
- Pleasant weather ideal for strolling
- Air is relatively clear, providing good views from the observation deck
Summer (June–August):
- Observation deck has air conditioning for comfort
- Beautiful contrast between summer blue sky and building
- Long daylight hours allow for extended photography
Autumn (September–November):
- Clear air makes Mt. Fuji more visible
- Shinjuku Gyoen is beautiful during autumn foliage season
- Comfortable weather ideal for pilgrimage
Winter (December–February):
- Air is clearest, observation deck views are excellent
- Beautiful illuminations
- Cold weather precautions essential, but photography conditions are good
Pilgrimage Notes and Precautions
Manners and Rules
Photography Notes:
- Use tripods only within ranges that don’t inconvenience others
- Be considerate of other tourists appearing in photos
- The government building is an active government facility, so don’t interfere with operations
- Never enter off-limits areas
Observation Deck Manners:
- Keep your voice down
- Don’t run or push
- Don’t touch windows (fingerprints)
- Eating and drinking only in designated areas
Packing Checklist
Essential Items:
- Camera (smartphone also works)
- Charger/spare battery
- IC transportation card
- Drinking water (especially in summer)
Convenient Items:
- Wide-angle lens (when using SLR camera)
- Small tripod
- Picnic blanket (for park breaks)
- Sunscreen/hat (summer)
- Warm clothing (winter)
- Rain gear (uncertain weather periods)
Security Check
Baggage inspection is conducted upon entry to the observation deck.
Inspection Items:
- Large luggage may be requested to be stored
- Dangerous items are strictly prohibited
- Plastic bottle drinks are allowed
Movie “Countdown to Heaven” Highlights Review
Rewatching the movie before pilgrimage enhances the experience.
Major Scenes
- Opening: Scene where the Twin Tower Building’s full view is displayed
- Party Scene: Lavish party inside the building
- Observation Floor Deduction: Important scene where Conan approaches the truth of the case
- Climax: Building explosion and escape scene
Appearing Characters
- Shinichi Kudo (Conan Edogawa)
- Ran Mouri
- Ai Haibara
- Detective Boys (Ayumi, Genta, Mitsuhiko)
- Professor Agasa
- Black Organization Members (Gin, Vodka)
Revisiting the movie before visiting allows you to more vividly imagine the locations where each scene takes place.
History and Architecture of Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Kenzo Tange’s Design Philosophy
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building was designed by world-renowned architect Kenzo Tange. As a representative work of postmodern architecture, it has the following characteristics.
Architectural Features:
- Symbolic twin tower structure
- Vertical emphasis reminiscent of Gothic architecture
- Height 243 meters (First Main Building)
- 48 stories above ground, 3 stories below ground
- Total construction cost of approximately 156.9 billion yen
History of Government Building Relocation
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which relocated to Shinjuku from Marunouchi in 1991, reflected the expansion of administrative functions and development plans for the Shinjuku sub-center.
Relocation Timeline:
- 1985: New government building construction plan decided
- 1988: Construction begins
- 1990: Completed
- 1991: Operations begin
How to Enjoy the Government Building Observation Deck
Scenery by Time of Day
Morning (9:30 AM–11:00 AM):
- Clear air allows far-reaching views
- Mt. Fuji easily visible
- Relatively few tourists, allowing leisurely appreciation
Daytime (11:00 AM–3:00 PM):
- Tokyo’s cityscape clearly visible
- Easy to understand positioning of major landmarks
- Bustling with families and tourists
Evening (3:00 PM–6:00 PM):
- Beautiful sunset scenery
- Sky colors constantly changing
- Transition to night views visible
Night (6:00 PM–10:00 PM):
- Tokyo night view at a glance
- Building lights sparkling like jewels
- Romantic atmosphere
Observation Deck Café
The South Observation Deck has a café called “TOKYO GOOD.”
Menu Examples:
- Coffee, tea and other beverages
- Light meals (sandwiches, bread)
- Sweets
- Tokyo souvenirs
You can enjoy café time leisurely while taking in the views.
Souvenirs and Gift Information
Gift Shops in the Building
The observation deck has shops selling Tokyo souvenirs.
Popular Items:
- Tokyo Skytree-related goods
- Tokyo Tower goods
- Tokyo specialty sweets (Tokyo Banana, Goma Tamago, etc.)
- Original government building goods
- Japanese souvenirs for international tourists
Where to Buy Conan Merchandise
While Conan goods are not sold in the government building, they are available around Shinjuku Station.
Shinjuku Anime Shops:
- Animate Shinjuku: Latest goods abundant
- Jump Shop: Also carries Weekly Shonen Sunday works
- Kiddy Land: Character merchandise specialty shop
Dining Information Around the Area
Lunch Spots Near Government Building
Inside Government Building:
- Staff cafeteria (sometimes open to general public)
- Observation deck café
Near Government Building:
- Shinjuku Sumitomo Building: Many dining options underground
- Shinjuku Nomura Building: Restaurant quarter
- Shinjuku Center Building: Various restaurant genres
Recommended Restaurants
Japanese Cuisine:
- Tunahachi (tempura)
- Ume no Hana (tofu cuisine)
- Yakiniku Gyugyutei (yakiniku)
Western Cuisine:
- Saint-Marc Café
- Tully’s Coffee
- Italian Tomato
Asian Cuisine:
- Hong Kong Dim Sum Specialty Shop
- Thai Restaurant
- Chinese Restaurant
Detailed Access Guide
Access from Major Stations
From Tokyo Station:
- JR Chuo Line rapid train to Shinjuku Station (approx. 15 minutes)
- 10 minutes’ walk from west exit
From Shibuya Station:
- JR Yamanote Line to Shinjuku Station (approx. 5 minutes)
- 10 minutes’ walk from west exit
From Ikebukuro Station:
- JR Yamanote Line to Shinjuku Station (approx. 5 minutes)
- Or Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Nishi-Shinjuku Station (approx. 7 minutes)
From Haneda Airport:
- Keikyu/Toei Asakusa Line to Shinbashi Station
- Transfer to Toei Oedo Line to Tochomae Station (total approx. 50 minutes)
From Narita Airport:
- Narita Express to Shinjuku Station (approx. 80 minutes)
- 10 minutes’ walk from west exit
Parking Information
The government building has parking for visitors, but use for tourism purposes is not recommended. Use of public transportation is encouraged.
Nearby Paid Parking:
- Shinjuku Central Park Parking
- Shinjuku Park Tower Parking
- Surrounding coin parking
Standard rates are 300 yen per 30 minutes and up.
Annual Event Information
Events Held at the Government Building
Spring:
- Tokyo tourism promotion exhibits
- Cherry blossom photo exhibitions
Summer:
- Summer festival-related events
- Fireworks information displays
Autumn:
- Tokyo autumn foliage spot introductions
- Cultural events
Winter:
- Illumination information
- Year-end and New Year events
The observation deck regularly features exhibitions related to Tokyo tourism and culture.
Events Around Shinjuku
- Shinjuku Eisa Festival (late July)
- Shinjuku Gyoen Cherry Blossoms (late March–early April)
- Shinjuku Field Museum (year-round)
Additional Information for Conan Fans
Other Conan Pilgrimage Sites
There are other locations throughout Tokyo related to the Conan series.
Major Sites in Tokyo:
- Tokyo Tower: Appears in multiple episodes
- Odaiba: Has been the setting for theatrical versions
- Asakusa: Edo-flavored streetscapes appear
- Ueno: Museums serve as crime scene settings
Conan Exhibition and Event Information
Check for Conan-related events held regularly in Tokyo.
Past Major Events:
- Detective Conan Exhibition
- Theatrical version release anniversary events
- Collaboration cafés
- Merchandise sales
Checking official websites and social media for latest information is recommended.
Pilgrimage Experience Stories
Fan Voices
Actual Conan fans who visited the government building have shared the following impressions:
“I was moved to see the model of the Twin Tower from the movie in person. The view from the observation deck was also wonderful, and I was able to experience the Conan world.”
“The night view was especially beautiful, and I could photograph while recalling the climax scene of the movie. It’s great that admission is free.”
“With the excellent location in Shinjuku, it’s easy to combine with other tourist spots and enjoy the entire day.”
SNS Posting Tips
Tips for sharing pilgrimage memories on social media:
Hashtag Examples:
- #DetectiveConan
- #CountdowntoHeaven
- #ConanPilgrimage
- #TokyoMetropolitanGovernmentBuilding
- #ConanFansConnect
Content Ideas:
- Comparison of government building exterior photos and movie scenes
- Views from observation deck
- Pilgrimage maps
- Recommended photography spot introductions
Conclusion
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is a must-visit pilgrimage site for Conan fans, said to be the model for the Twin Tower Building in “Detective Conan: Countdown to Heaven.” Located in the convenient area of Shinjuku with free observation deck admission, it’s easy to visit.
Pilgrimage Highlights Summary:
- Good Access: Directly connected to Tochomae Station
- Free Entry: Observation deck admission is free
- Abundant Photo Spots: Exterior, observation deck, surrounding parks, etc.
- Rich Surrounding Facilities: Enjoy shopping and dining around Shinjuku Station
- Year-Round Appeal: Different attractions by season
Rewatching the movie before visiting allows you to experience the Conan world more deeply. Bring a camera and capture the magnificent sight of the government building. Enjoy a fulfilling pilgrimage experience combined with Tokyo sightseeing.
In the heart of Tokyo’s bustling center, a special experience immersed in the Conan world surely awaits you.
