【Makoto Shinkai Film】Complete Guide to the Docomo Tower (NTT Docomo Yoyogi Building) in “Weathering with You” | Sacred Site Pilgrimage, Photography Spots, and Access Information
The Docomo Tower (NTT Docomo Yoyogi Building), which appears impressively in Makoto Shinkai’s blockbuster film “Weathering with You,” has become a sacred site visited by many fans as a structure that symbolizes the work. This article comprehensively covers information about the Docomo Tower, including details of scenes from the film, photography spots for sacred site pilgrimage, access methods, and nearby attractions.
Docomo Tower (NTT Docomo Yoyogi Building) Overview
Basic Information About the Building
The NTT Docomo Yoyogi Building is an ultra-high-rise building 240 meters tall located in Yoyogi 2-chome, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo. Completed in 1996 and designed by Kenzo Tange, it is affectionately known as the “Docomo Tower” due to its distinctive exterior. It serves as an important landmark of the Shinjuku sub-center and forms a crucial part of Tokyo’s skyline.
This 27-story above-ground and 3-story below-ground building houses NTT Docomo’s headquarters functions while also serving as a clock tower. At night, it is illuminated, and its beautiful appearance can be seen from far away.
Architectural Features and Appeal
The Docomo Tower’s greatest feature is its unique silhouette. Its elongated, tower-like shape possesses an elegance reminiscent of a clock tower and stands out distinctly among the surrounding buildings. The exterior walls use granite, creating an impression of luxury and solidity.
Large clocks are installed on all four sides at the top, with a diameter of 15 meters. These clocks function as a symbol informing the Shinjuku area of the time and are cherished by many people.
Docomo Tower’s Appearances in “Weathering with You”
Its Important Role in the Work
In “Weathering with You,” the Docomo Tower appears multiple times as a structure symbolizing Tokyo as a stage. Within Makoto Shinkai’s characteristically beautiful background depictions, this building is portrayed as representative of Tokyo’s urban landscape.
From scenes where protagonist Hodaka looks out over Tokyo’s streets, to moments spent with Hina, and to the story’s climax, the Docomo Tower constantly radiates presence against Tokyo’s sky. Particularly in scenes depicting the continuously rainy landscape of Tokyo, this tower becomes an important element symbolizing the work’s atmosphere.
Details of Memorable Scenes
What stands out particularly in the film is the bird’s-eye view scene of the Shinjuku cityscape. The Docomo Tower demonstrates a unique presence among the Shinjuku sub-center’s cluster of buildings and is beautifully depicted under a clearing sky.
In nighttime scenes, the illuminated Docomo Tower creates a fantastical atmosphere. Through Makoto Shinkai’s delicate light expression, it is depicted as even more beautiful and romantic than the actual building.
In rainy scenes, the tower’s clock is shown continuing to tick in the rain-soaked city, functioning as a symbol of the story’s themes of “time” and “weather.”
Sacred Site Pilgrimage: Photography Spots of Docomo Tower
Optimal Photography Point ①: Around Shinjuku Station South Exit
The area around Shinjuku Station South Exit toward Yoyogi is an excellent spot for photographing the Docomo Tower. Located about a 5-minute walk from the station, access is convenient.
The views from Shinjuku Southern Terrace are particularly wonderful, allowing you to capture the tower’s full view. To recreate the film’s scenes, taking photos from a slightly distant position with a telephoto lens will yield images closer to the composition in the work.
Early morning hours are recommended as they minimize backlighting and allow for clear photography. During the golden hour of late afternoon, the sky’s color and tower silhouette create beautiful contrast.
Optimal Photography Point ②: Around Yoyogi Park
From the northern area of Yoyogi Park, you can photograph greenery and the Docomo Tower together. The contrast between the urban building and nature is ideal for expressing the “Weathering with You” worldview.
Photographing from an open area within the park allows you to position trees in the foreground while framing the tower in the background, resulting in photos with depth. Particularly during new leaf season or autumn foliage, you can capture seasonal photographs.
Optimal Photography Point ③: From the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck
From the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building’s observation deck (free), you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Shinjuku sub-center including the Docomo Tower. Being a high-elevation vantage point allows you to recreate the bird’s-eye view of Tokyo depicted in the film.
Especially recommended for night photography, the illuminated Docomo Tower and surrounding buildings create a spectacular sight. Note that tripod use may be restricted, so confirmation beforehand is necessary.
Optimal Photography Point ④: Around the Meiji Shrine Outer Gardens
From the area around the ginkgo tree-lined avenue of the Meiji Shrine Outer Gardens, you can capture the Docomo Tower in the distance. During autumn when the ginkgo trees turn golden, the combination of the avenue and tower becomes an exceptionally beautiful photograph.
To recreate the film’s atmosphere, visiting on cloudy or rainy days is also worthwhile. You can experience the rainy Tokyo of the “Weathering with You” worldview while enjoying the sacred site pilgrimage.
Photography Etiquette and Considerations
When photographing during sacred site pilgrimage, keep these points in mind:
- No unauthorized entry on private property: Photograph from public roads and public spaces
- Don’t obstruct foot traffic: Choose locations that don’t inconvenience other pedestrians
- Consideration when using tripods: Avoid tripod use during crowded times; use handheld shooting instead
- Early morning and late night photography: Exercise noise consideration in residential areas and avoid disturbing neighbors
- Always take trash with you: Don’t forget environmental consideration to keep sacred sites beautiful
Access Information
Access by Train
Access to the Docomo Tower is very convenient. The nearest stations are as follows:
JR Lines
- Shinjuku Station (South Exit) – about 5 minutes walk
- Yoyogi Station – about 3 minutes walk
Tokyo Metro (Toei Subway)
- Toei Oedo Line Shinjuku Station – about 5 minutes walk
- Toei Shinjuku Line Shinjuku Station – about 7 minutes walk
Tokyo Metro
- Marunouchi Line Shinjuku Station – about 6 minutes walk
Private Railways
- Odakyu Line Shinjuku Station (South Exit) – about 5 minutes walk
- Keio Line Shinjuku Station – about 7 minutes walk
Detailed Walking Routes
When heading from Shinjuku Station South Exit:
- Exit through the Shinjuku Station South Exit ticket gate
- Head toward the Southern Terrace area
- Cross the footbridge toward Yoyogi
- Continue straight and the Docomo Tower will come into view
When heading from Yoyogi Station:
- Exit from Yoyogi Station West Exit
- Head toward the new Shinjuku area along the railway
- Arrive at the Docomo Tower in about 3 minutes
Driving Access and Parking Information
The Docomo Tower has no public parking. Those arriving by car must use nearby coin parking lots.
There are several paid parking lots around Shinjuku Station South Exit, though rates are relatively high (approximately 300-400 yen per 30 minutes). For extended stays during sacred site pilgrimage, public transportation is recommended.
“Weathering with You” Sacred Sites Around the Docomo Tower
Sacred Spots in the Shinjuku Area
When visiting the Docomo Tower, be sure to visit other “Weathering with You” sacred sites within walking distance.
Shinjuku Gyoen
The Shinjuku Gyoen, which appears in important scenes from the film, is located about a 15-minute walk from the Docomo Tower. This expansive garden displays seasonal beauty throughout the year and is a place where you can experience the film’s worldview.
Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park, located west of the Docomo Tower, is also known as a place featured in the film. As an oasis in the urban area, it’s ideal for strolling and resting.
Shinjuku Station Area
The crowds and streetscapes around Shinjuku Station also serve as an important stage for the film. The station interior and surrounding buildings depict the landscape Hodaka first saw upon arriving in Tokyo.
Recommended Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Route
Recommended half-day itinerary:
- Morning: Shinjuku Station South Exit meetup (9:00)
- Docomo Tower photography (9:30-10:30)
- Yoyogi Park stroll (11:00-12:00)
- Lunch: Shinjuku area (12:00-13:00)
- Shinjuku Gyoen (13:30-15:30)
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck (16:00-17:00)
- Night photography: Docomo Tower (18:00-19:00)
Seasonal Enjoyments
Spring (March-May)
Spring brings beautiful fresh greenery, and during cherry blossom season you can enjoy viewing flowers at Yoyogi Park or Shinjuku Gyoen while participating in sacred site pilgrimage. Collaborative photographs of the Docomo Tower and cherry blossoms are uniquely charming to this season.
Mild temperatures make this season ideal for strolling. However, peak cherry blossom season is crowded, so early morning visits are recommended.
Summer (June-August)
The rainy season that served as the backdrop for “Weathering with You” is when you can most profoundly experience the film’s atmosphere. Rain-soaked Tokyo streets and the Docomo Tower are the work’s worldview itself.
When photographing on rainy days, don’t forget waterproofing measures for your camera. Using rain droplets in your photography technique can yield images like scenes from the film.
Autumn (September-November)
Autumn features clearer air with many days showing the Docomo Tower distinctly. When the ginkgo tree-lined avenue at the Meiji Shrine Outer Gardens turns golden from mid to late November, this is a particularly beautiful time for photography.
The evening golden hour, combined with autumn’s transparent air quality, creates a mystical atmosphere.
Winter (December-February)
Winter has the clearest air, with the Docomo Tower’s outline visible sharply. Nighttime illumination becomes even more beautiful, and the surrounding area is colorfully decorated with illuminations during the Christmas season.
Cold weather precautions are essential, but the contrast between clear winter skies and the tower is exceptional.
The Docomo Tower’s History and Cultural Significance
Construction Background
The NTT Docomo Yoyogi Building was planned as a structure symbolizing the development of the telecommunications industry in the 1990s. Designed by Kenzo Tange, a leading Japanese architect, his architectural philosophy is reflected throughout the building.
Since its completion in 1996, this building has become an essential landmark of the Shinjuku sub-center’s skyline.
Its Position in Popular Culture
Before “Weathering with You,” the Docomo Tower had appeared in various films, dramas, and anime productions. Its distinctive exterior frequently appears in works set in Tokyo as a structure symbolizing “the urban.”
Through its appearance in Makoto Shinkai’s work, the Docomo Tower has acquired new cultural significance. An anime sacred site value has been added, and it has taken on the aspect of a tourist destination visited by fans domestically and internationally.
Photography Techniques and Recommended Settings
Daytime Photography
Sunny conditions
- Aperture: F8-F11 (for sharp rendering)
- Shutter speed: 1/250 second or faster (to prevent camera shake)
- ISO: 100-200 (to suppress noise)
- White balance: Daylight or auto
Cloudy/rainy conditions
- Aperture: F5.6-F8
- Shutter speed: 1/125 second or faster
- ISO: 400-800 (to compensate for low light)
- White balance: Cloudy mode
Night Photography
Illumination photography
- Aperture: F8-F16 (to achieve light star effects)
- Shutter speed: 1-10 seconds (tripod required)
- ISO: 100-400
- White balance: Fluorescent or manual adjustment
Handheld night photography
- Aperture: F2.8-F4 (use bright lens)
- Shutter speed: 1/60 second or faster
- ISO: 1600-3200
- Image stabilization: ON
Composition Tips
Rule of thirds application
Positioning the Docomo Tower on the rule of thirds gridlines creates well-balanced composition. Increasing sky area creates “Weathering with You” style sky expression.
Foreground utilization
Placing trees or buildings in the foreground creates photos with depth. Particularly when photographing from Yoyogi Park, incorporating greenery as foreground is effective.
Vertical composition utilization
To take advantage of the tower’s elongated silhouette, vertical composition is recommended. You can capture the tower’s full view while also capturing the sky’s expression.
Nearby Recommended Facilities
Restaurants and Cafes
Around Shinjuku Southern Terrace
The area near Shinjuku Southern Terrace, close to the Docomo Tower, has numerous cafes and restaurants. Perfect for resting during sacred site pilgrimage, some establishments even allow you to enjoy meals while viewing the tower from terrace seating.
Yoyogi area
The area around Yoyogi Station features quiet-atmosphere cafes and set meal restaurants scattered throughout. Many shops are beloved by locals and offer reasonably priced meals.
Rest Spots
Shinjuku Southern Terrace
Outdoor benches and terrace areas are available for free rest. You can relax while viewing the Docomo Tower.
Yoyogi Park
With expansive lawn areas, you can rest in picnic-like atmosphere on fine weather days. Vending machines and restrooms are also available.
To Enjoy the “Weathering with You” Worldview More Deeply
Film Preview and Review
Rewatching the film before visiting the Docomo Tower is recommended. Confirming which scenes feature it and how will magnify the emotional impact at the actual location.
Special features on Blu-ray and DVD releases sometimes include background art creation processes, allowing you to understand Director Makoto Shinkai’s commitment to filmmaking.
Related Publications
The official visual guide and art collection for “Weathering with You” contain detailed explanations of background art including the Docomo Tower. Comparing actual locations with film depictions reveals the depth of animation production.
The novel version of “Weathering with You” provides more detailed descriptions of character emotions and backgrounds not covered in the film, deepening work comprehension.
Event Information
Regular Illumination
The Docomo Tower features various illuminations according to seasons and events. Special displays may be added during the Christmas season and year-end holidays, revealing expressions different from usual.
“Weathering with You” Related Events
Related events are sometimes held in the Shinjuku area during film premiere anniversaries. Checking official sites and social media may lead to special experiences.
Summary: The Appeal of Docomo Tower Sacred Site Pilgrimage
The Docomo Tower (NTT Docomo Yoyogi Building) appearing in “Weathering with You” has become a place remaining in the hearts of many fans as a symbol of beautiful Tokyo as depicted by Director Makoto Shinkai.
Its convenient access, abundant surrounding facilities, and atmosphere allowing you to experience the film’s worldview make it an ideal sacred site pilgrimage destination. The Docomo Tower reveals different expressions depending on season and time of day, offering new discoveries with each visit.
Try capturing your own “Weathering with You” world in photographs while recalling film scenes. Whether rainy or sunny, beautiful Tokyo lies there.
Docomo Tower sacred site pilgrimage may become the catalyst to love “Weathering with You” even more deeply and an opportunity to discover new charm in Tokyo.
Observe photography etiquette and don’t forget consideration for surroundings as you create wonderful sacred site pilgrimage memories.
