33. Museum Review: Shinagawa Historical Museum (Shinagawa-ku)

The Shinagawa Rekishikan (Shinagawa Historical Museum) collects and preserves materials that pertain to the culture and history of Shinagawa, and also preserves the city archives. In addition to the museum itself, there is a traditional Japanese tea room, a study, and a Japanese-style garden.
The museum is not very large, but the presentation of exhibits is excellent. Unfortunately, there are no English explanations. It is best to visit this museum with someone who can read Japanese. If you live in the Shinagawa area, it is worth 100 yen just to relax in the garden.
Admission: 100 yen for adults, 50 yen for elementary and junior high school students.
Free for senior citizens who are 70 years of age or older and for those who are disabled.
*There is a separate fee for special exhibit periods.

Hours of Operation: 9:00 - 17:00 (last entry at 16:30), closed on Mondays, national holidays, during the year end/New Year holidays, and for exhibition renewals.

Address: 6-11-1 Oi
Phone: 03-3777-4060

Directions: A one minute walk from the Kashima Jinja-mae bus stop, taking the Tokyu bus headed for Ikegami or Kamata from JR/Tokyu/Rinkai Oimachi Station. Or, a 10 minute walk from the Sanno Kitaguchi (North Exit) of JR Omori Station. There are also paid parking lots within easy walking distance.

32. Attraction Review: Tokyo City View (Roppongi)

An observatory on the 52nd floor of Mori Tower in Roppongi Hills, the 'Tokyo City View' gives a great view of the city, especially at night. A 360 degree view from 250 meters above sea level, it is quite breath-taking.

If you are willing to pay the price, I recommend the Tokyo City View over the Tokyo Tower. It always seems to be less crowded, it is more stylish, and there are lots of places to sit and really get a good look at the city. Go right at sundown for the best views.

Inside, the 'Sunset Cafe' serves coffee, tea, juice, beer,... There is also the 'Mado Lounge' - haven't been inside, but it looks pretty fancy. They regularly have live music and special events, and I believe it is available for private parties (although I bet the cost is pretty high).

Hours of Operation: 9:00 to 1:00 am, open everyday

Admission: Adults 1,500 yen, high school and college students 1,000 yen, children 500 yen.

For English Information: http://www.tokyocityview.com/en/index.html