【Makoto Shinkai Film】Weathering with You – Roppongi Hills Rooftop Sky Deck Complete Guide | All Information for Holy Site Pilgrimage
In the blockbuster film “Weathering with You” directed by Makoto Shinkai, the Roppongi Hills rooftop Sky Deck became an important stage that colored the climax of the story. The impressive scene where the protagonist Hina uses her ability to control the weather to bring fair skies for a fireworks festival remains vivid in the memories of many fans.
This article provides a thorough explanation of the appeal of this holy site pilgrimage spot. We deliver all the information necessary for those planning a pilgrimage, from details about the film’s scenes to actual access methods, pricing information, photography tips, and precautions to take during your visit.
Roppongi Hills Rooftop Sky Deck Overview
The Roppongi Hills rooftop Sky Deck is an open-air observation deck located on the roof of the 52-story Mori Tower, offering a panoramic view of central Tokyo. Known as one of the few outdoor observation facilities in the city, it provides a 360-degree panoramic view from a height of 270 meters above sea level.
Features of the Sky Deck
Positioned above the indoor observation corridor “Tokyo City View,” this facility’s greatest charm is that you can enjoy Tokyo’s scenery while directly feeling the wind and air on your skin, rather than viewing through glass. A helipad is located in the center, with a wooden walking deck arranged in a semicircle around it.
On clear days, you can see Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, Rainbow Bridge, the cluster of tall buildings in Odaiba, and even Mount Fuji in the distance. Popular as a night-view spot, it offers a luxurious space to enjoy Tokyo’s nightscape in 360-degree panorama.
【Weathering with You】Detailed Explanation of Roppongi Hills Sky Deck’s Appearance Scenes
In the film “Weathering with You,” the Roppongi Hills rooftop Sky Deck appears in a scene that becomes an important turning point in the story. Here, we review the film’s appearance scenes in detail.
The Fireworks Festival Episode
A scene depicts the protagonists Hodaka and Hina being asked to help organize a fireworks festival. With the festival on the verge of cancellation due to continuous rain, the organizers seek their help, and Hina decides to use her power as a “sunshine girl” to make the event happen.
Hodaka and the fireworks festival organizer board an elevator heading to the Roppongi Hills Sky Deck. This elevator scene faithfully recreates the actual elevator to the observation deck at Roppongi Hills.
The Scene of Hina’s Prayer
Upon arriving at the rooftop Sky Deck, Hina walks toward the back of the helipad. Facing the rainy Tokyo sky, she clasps her hands together and offers a prayer. This impressive scene, combined with Shinkai’s distinctive beautiful cinematography, becomes one of the film’s highlights.
As Hina’s prayer is answered, the thick clouds clear, and blue sky begins to spread. The fireworks festival is held without incident, and beautiful fireworks light up the night sky. This scene, symbolizing Hina’s power as a “sunshine girl,” remains in the hearts of many fans.
Featured in the Trailer
The Roppongi Hills Sky Deck appears not only in the main film but also in the movie’s trailer, drawing attention as a holy site for “Weathering with You” before its release. The impressive shots of the helipad and Tokyo’s towering buildings in the background are etched in many people’s memories.
Holy Site Pilgrimage: Actual Filming Spots and Recreation Points
When “Weathering with You” fans visit for pilgrimage, here are the points for recreating scenes from the film.
Photography Spots Around the Helipad
The helipad where Hina offered her prayer actually exists in the center of the Sky Deck. However, since the helipad itself is a restricted access area, photography is done from the surrounding wooden deck.
For shots matching the film’s angle, it’s recommended to photograph from the back side (north direction) of the helipad. By including Tokyo’s cluster of tall buildings in the background, you can capture photos closer to the film’s scenes.
Differences in Scenery by Time of Day
Although the film showed daytime scenes, the scenery changes dramatically depending on when you visit.
Daytime (around 11:00-16:00)
You can enjoy the same bright Tokyo landscape as in the film. On clear days, Mount Fuji is also visible, and the contrast between the blue sky and Tokyo’s cityscape is beautiful during this time period.
Twilight (around 16:00-18:00)
During the so-called magic hour, the orange-tinted sky and gradually illuminating city lights create an enchanting atmosphere.
Night View (18:00-20:00)
Tokyo Tower, Rainbow Bridge, and the nightscape of the Odaiba area are beautiful, creating a romantic atmosphere. This time period is particularly popular as a night-view spot.
Photography Tips
Here are some tips for taking beautiful commemorative photos during your pilgrimage.
- Use of Wide-Angle Lens: By using a smartphone’s wide-angle mode or a wide-angle lens, you can capture the expansive landscape and helipad together in your frame.
- Person Photography: When photographing someone in a prayer pose like Hina, be mindful of composition that considers the helipad and the tall buildings in the background.
- Weather Selection: For recreating the film’s scenes, a clear day is best, but overcast or post-rain skies can also create an atmosphere characteristic of Makoto Shinkai’s works.
Basic Information About Roppongi Hills Sky Deck
Here is a summary of detailed information about the Roppongi Hills rooftop Sky Deck necessary for planning your pilgrimage.
Operating Hours
Normal operating hours are 11:00–20:00. However, operating hours may be changed depending on weather and season. Particularly during strong winds or rainy weather, operations may be closed for safety reasons, so it is recommended to check the official website for the latest information before your visit.
Notice: As of September 11, 2023, the Sky Deck has been temporarily closed. Please check the official site for the latest information regarding reopening. The indoor observation deck “Tokyo City View” operates normally.
Pricing System
Admission to the Sky Deck requires first purchasing an admission ticket for “Tokyo City View,” the indoor observation corridor on the 52nd floor.
Tokyo City View (Indoor Observation Deck)
- General: ¥2,000
- High school and university students: ¥1,400
- Ages 4 to junior high school: ¥800
- Senior (65 and older): ¥1,700
Sky Deck (Additional Charge)
- General: ¥500
- High school and university students: ¥500
- Ages 4 to junior high school: ¥300
- Senior (65 and older): ¥500
In other words, for a general visitor to enter the Sky Deck, a total of ¥2,500 is required. Tickets are available on the day only; advance reservations are not possible. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter inside Tokyo City View.
Access Methods
Access by Train
While there are multiple nearby stations, the most convenient are:
- Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line “Roppongi Station” Exit 1C (direct connection, 0 minutes walk)
- Toei Oedo Line “Roppongi Station” Exit 3 (4 minutes walk)
- Toei Oedo Line “Azabu-Juban Station” Exit 7 (5 minutes walk)
- Tokyo Metro Namboku Line “Azabu-Juban Station” Exit 4 (8 minutes walk)
From Roppongi Station to Roppongi Hills, there is a direct underground passageway, so you can access it without getting wet even on rainy days.
Movement Within Roppongi Hills
Once you arrive at Roppongi Hills, head toward Mori Tower. Take the dedicated elevator in front of the Museum Cone on the 3rd floor of Mori Tower to the 52nd floor Tokyo City View. Purchase an additional ticket for the Sky Deck inside Tokyo City View, then take another dedicated elevator to the rooftop.
Location
〒106-0032 Roppongi 6-chome, 10-1 Minato Ward, Tokyo, Roppongi Hills Mori Tower Rooftop
Precautions When Visiting Roppongi Hills Sky Deck
Since the Sky Deck is an outdoor facility, there are several precautions to be aware of when visiting. By understanding them in advance, you can enjoy the pilgrimage more comfortably.
Operating Status Due to Weather
Due to its nature as an open-air observation deck, it is greatly affected by weather. Operations may be closed in the following cases:
- Strong wind (wind speed of 10 m/s or more)
- Rainy weather
- Possibility of thunderstorms
- Other cases where safety cannot be ensured
In cases of weather-related closure, the Sky Deck additional fee will be refunded, but the Tokyo City View admission fee will not be refunded. If you wish to visit with certainty, it is recommended to check the weather forecast and choose a day with fair weather.
Clothing and Belongings
Clothing Precautions
The rooftop is windy, so note the following:
- Hats can be blown away, so use something that can be securely fastened
- For skirts, consider wind protection
- Appropriate clothing for cold or hot weather by season
- Comfortable shoes for walking (avoid high-heeled shoes if possible)
Restrictions on Belongings
For safety, there are the following restrictions:
- Large luggage may not be allowed
- Use of tripods is prohibited
- Use of umbrellas is prohibited (operations close in rain)
- Bringing food and beverages is prohibited
Precautions Regarding Photography
While photography is generally allowed, note the following:
- Commercial photography requires prior permission
- Be considerate to avoid bothering other visitors
- Use of tripods and selfie sticks is prohibited
- Entry into the helipad is strictly forbidden
Crowding Status and Timing of Visits
Weekends, holidays, and especially from dusk through night-view hours experience crowds. After the release of “Weathering with You,” it has become increasingly popular as a holy site pilgrimage spot, with especially heavy crowding expected during the initial release period and anniversary dates.
Relatively quiet times:
- Weekday mornings after opening (11:00–13:00)
- Weekday afternoons around 15:00–17:00
Crowded times:
- All day on weekends and holidays
- Twilight hours (16:00–18:00)
- Night-view time (18:00–20:00)
For those wishing to enjoy the pilgrimage leisurely, a weekday daytime visit is recommended.
Surrounding “Weathering with You” Holy Sites
Several other holy sites from “Weathering with You” are scattered around Roppongi Hills. Since you’re already in Roppongi, why not try visiting them as part of your pilgrimage?
Attractions Within Roppongi Hills
Tokyo City View (Indoor Observation Corridor)
The indoor observation deck you pass through before going to the Sky Deck is itself an excellent observation spot. While viewing through glass, you can enjoy Tokyo’s 360-degree scenery in a comfortable environment.
Cafes and Restaurants in Roppongi Hills
It’s also recommended to take a break at the diverse cafes and restaurants within Roppongi Hills during your pilgrimage. The cafe on the same floor as the observation deck also offers beautiful views.
Night-View Spots in the Roppongi Area
Roppongi is an area with many of Tokyo’s premier night-view spots. Besides the Sky Deck, you can enjoy beautiful night views at:
- Tokyo Midtown
- Roppongi Keyaki-zaka
- Mori Garden
Enjoying the night views of Roppongi while visiting these spots is also worthwhile.
Makoto Shinkai’s Works and Roppongi Hills
Director Makoto Shinkai is known for carefully depicting real locations. In “Weathering with You,” the Roppongi Hills Sky Deck faithfully recreates actual places, allowing visitors to experience a sense of entering the film’s world.
Comparison with Previous Work “Your Name”
In the previous work “Your Name,” various Tokyo locations appeared, but “Weathering with You” depicts a more contemporary Tokyo. By selecting Roppongi Hills, a landmark of central Tokyo, as the setting, it is depicted impressively as a place symbolizing contemporary Tokyo.
Contribution to Holy Site Pilgrimage Culture
Following the release of “Weathering with You,” many anime fans have visited the Roppongi Hills Sky Deck. Through the film, attention has been drawn to places that ordinarily receive few tourists, and it has become recognized as a new tourist attraction.
Conclusion: Maximizing Your Holy Site Pilgrimage Experience
The Roppongi Hills rooftop Sky Deck is a precious holy site where you can experience the world of “Weathering with You.” The helipad where Hina offered her prayer, the 360-degree panorama overlooking Tokyo’s towering buildings, and the emotion of seeing the same landscape as in the film will be a special experience for fans.
Before visiting, confirm the following points:
- Check operating status (possibility of weather-related closure)
- Understand pricing and ticket purchase methods
- Plan access methods and required time
- Prepare appropriate clothing and belongings
- Research filming spots and angles in advance
- Choose times to avoid crowds
Although the Sky Deck is currently temporarily closed, you can still enjoy Tokyo’s scenery from the indoor observation deck “Tokyo City View” while awaiting its reopening. Experience the beauty that director Makoto Shinkai depicted, and contemplate the world of “Weathering with You.”
The beautiful Tokyo sky that Shinkai depicted and the miraculous place where Hina’s prayer was answered. A pilgrimage to the Roppongi Hills rooftop Sky Deck will be a special experience that revives the emotion of the film. Visit on a clear day and gaze up at the same blue sky as in the movie.
