Shinjuku is a major administrative and commercial area in Tokyo. Shinjuku’s skyline is dotted with some very impressive buildings. I visited Shinjuku at least three times during the time I was in Tokyo as it is quite a large area and it makes for some interesting pictures. When you take the subway to Shinjuku you get out at Shinjuku Station which is the largest subway station in Tokyo as well as being the busiest station in the world. All the main subway lines go through Shinjuku station as well as the JR train line. As I came out of the station I was greeted with a view of a stangely shaped building, it is nicknamed the cocoon building due to the crisscrossed supports that cover most of the building as you can see in the photo below.
View From Shinjuku Station
I really like the somewhat random looking structure it gives it an organic feel. I am really attracted by designs that seem inspired by natural structures. Interesting structures and patterns occur in nature and they can be an incredible source of inspiration and look remarkable when incorporated into man-made structures. Though coccoon building is interesting, the most important and imposing building is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building which is also called Tochō for short. It is a truly massive building and towers over other buildings, it is very fitting for major government building. The building has an observation deck from which you have an incredible view of the area.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
I went up to the observation around 10pm as the observation deck is open till quite late. I would highly suggest that people visit it at night as Shinjuku looks really beautiful at night. The streets of Shinjuku are lit up with thousands of signs and billboards and it is incredible to see it all from above. Streets seem like rivers of light and buildings resemble dark mountains, it is a fantastic sight. During the day and night the streets of Shinjuku are always bustling with activity. Even on the slightly rainy day on which I was there the activity did not die down.
The Streets of Shinjuku
Colourful signs and large screens are incredibly numerous in Shinjuku, the cacophony of bright colours is a bit overwhelming sometimes. I really love Shinjuku because I love lively area where you can walk among an incredible flow of humanity. Being amongst a large crowd always makes me feel more alive. The sound and constant activity do not bother me, they are a reality in a big city and I have always liked big cities. Shinjuku is truly a place of note in Tokyo and should not be missed when visiting the city. I will finish this post with one last pictures of a skyscraper which I enjoy due to its simple but attractive design.
The Triangle Building
The next area I will be writing about will be Shibuya, a very fashionable area which is incredibly popular among young adults. The area also has a very active nightlife and features one of the most know intersections in Tokyo “Hachiko crossing”.
