Northern end of Koen Street in Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo with Ome Kaido street in front, Shinjuku Oak City buildings on the west and Central Park Tower La Tour Shinjuku in the background

Shinjuku Oak Tower

Shinjuku Oak Tower Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Tokyo Historical Sites Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Shinjuku Oak Tower (新宿オークタワー) is a prominent skyscraper in Tokyo’s dynamic Nishi-Shinjuku district. Completed in the early 2000s by Nikken Sekkei Ltd., this 184-meter, 38-story tower stands as a testament to Tokyo’s post-bubble economic revival and architectural innovation. While primarily an office building, the Oak Tower is a point of interest for visitors seeking to explore Tokyo’s modern skyline, business culture, and the unique blend of tradition and modernity that defines the city.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for a visit to Shinjuku Oak Tower: opening hours, ticketing, accessibility, architectural highlights, nearby attractions, and travel tips. For deeper architectural insights, see Japan Travel’s architectural guide and Timeout Tokyo’s architecture feature.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Public Areas (Lobby, Retail, Dining):
Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Dining establishments may extend hours until 9:00 or 10:00 PM depending on the venue.
Admission:
Entry to public areas, retail shops, and restaurants is free. Special exhibitions or events may require tickets; check the official Sumitomo Realty & Development website or venue listings for updates.
Observation Deck:
Shinjuku Oak Tower does not feature a dedicated public observation deck. However, some upper-floor restaurants and meeting spaces may provide city views for guests.

How to Get There

Address: 6-8-1 Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
By Train/Subway:
- 5–10 minute walk from Shinjuku Station (served by JR, Odakyu, Keio, Marunouchi, and Oedo Lines)
- Well-connected by the extensive underground pedestrian network, providing sheltered access during inclement weather
By Bus:
Multiple lines serve the Shinjuku area, with stops near the tower.

Accessibility

Shinjuku Oak Tower is fully equipped for accessibility:

Elevators and ramps with tactile guides
Accessible restrooms on multiple floors
Braille signage and audio floor announcements in elevators
Wide, step-free corridors and automatic doors
Multilingual digital information boards

For wheelchair users, nearby department stores such as Odakyu and Keio offer rental services (Accessible Japan; Tokyo Metropolitan Government).

History and Architectural Significance

Shinjuku Oak Tower emerged as part of Tokyo’s late-20th-century urban planning efforts to decentralize business and foster economic growth. The tower’s modernist glass-and-steel façade not only ensures ample daylight for office spaces but also reflects Tokyo’s ever-evolving skyline. Advanced seismic engineering, energy-efficient technologies, and flexible office layouts highlight the building’s commitment to safety, sustainability, and tenant adaptability.

Amenities and Services

Dining and Retail:
Step-free entry to restaurants and cafes, many offering English menus and accommodating dietary restrictions on request.
Event Spaces:
Conference and event rooms are available by reservation and are fitted with accessible seating and audio-visual aids.
Free Wi-Fi:
Available in public areas with multilingual login support.
Parking:
Underground parking with designated accessible spaces and step-free lobby access.

Nearby Attractions

Shinjuku Oak Tower’s central location places visitors within easy reach of many of Tokyo’s most popular sites:

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building:
Free observation decks with panoramic city views. (Tsunagu Japan)
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden:
Expansive park with Japanese, English, and French gardens; fully accessible facilities. (Accessible Japan)
Hanazono Shrine:
Historic Shinto shrine and venue for vibrant festivals. (Magical Trip)
Kumano Shrine:
Tranquil retreat in the heart of Nishi-Shinjuku.
Shinjuku Golden Gai & Omoide Yokocho:
Iconic nighttime districts with unique bars and nostalgic alleyways. (Plan My Japan)
Tokyu Kabukicho Tower:
New entertainment complex, symbolizing Shinjuku’s evolution.
LOVE Statue (Shinjuku Island Tower):
Popular art installation and photo spot.

Urban Context and Cultural Highlights

Shinjuku is a district defined by contrasts: dazzling skyscrapers rise above centuries-old shrines, and modern retail meccas share space with tranquil gardens. The area’s postwar transformation has created a vibrant tapestry of business, culture, and entertainment. Seasonal festivals, such as the Hanazono Shrine’s Tori-no-Ichi and the Shinjuku Eisa Festival, provide opportunities to experience local traditions.

The culinary scene boasts everything from Michelin-starred establishments to bustling yokocho food alleys. Shopping is world-class, with department stores like Isetan, Odakyu, and Takashimaya catering to every taste.

Practical Travel Tips

Navigation:
Shinjuku Station can be overwhelming due to its size—use navigation apps and follow multilingual signage (Tsunagu Japan).
Timing:
Spring and autumn are ideal for milder weather and seasonal scenery.
Etiquette:
Be mindful of local customs at shrines and in public spaces.
Assistance:
Information desks and security staff are trained to help visitors, including those with disabilities or special needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Shinjuku Oak Tower?
A: Public areas are open Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Some dining options may open later; check venue specifics.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Entry to public areas and dining establishments is free. Some events may be ticketed.

Q: Is the building wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with elevators, ramps, accessible restrooms, and tactile guides.

Q: Can I rent a wheelchair at Shinjuku Oak Tower?
A: Not directly at the tower, but nearby department stores offer rentals.

Q: Are English menus and signage available?
A: Yes, most public areas and restaurants offer English support.

Visuals and Interactive Features

Virtual tours and photo galleries are available on the tower’s official website and through travel apps.

Conclusion

Shinjuku Oak Tower exemplifies Tokyo’s urban transformation—melding advanced architecture, comprehensive accessibility, and a prime location in one of the city’s most dynamic districts. Although it lacks a traditional observation deck, its public spaces, dining, and proximity to top attractions make it a valuable stop for business travelers, architecture enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike. Explore the vibrant surroundings, benefit from the building’s thoughtful amenities, and experience the unique juxtaposition of modernity and tradition that defines Shinjuku.

For the latest information on events, accessibility, and travel tips, visit the official Sumitomo Realty & Development website and download the Audiala app for insider guidance.