From Shinjuku, the most direct route to Tokyo Skytree is to take the Toei Oedo Line to Ryogoku, then take a short taxi or bus ride to Oshiage. Alternatively, the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line from Omotesando (transfer at Shinjuku) reaches Oshiage in about 35 minutes. Here is the clearest guide to every option.
Quick Answer: Tokyo Metro route (recommended): JR Yamanote or Chuo Line from Shinjuku to Shibuya (6 minutes), then Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line from Shibuya to Oshiage Station (22 minutes). Total: about 35 minutes, approximately 400 yen. Oshiage is directly at Tokyo Skytree.
Best Route
Via Shibuya and Hanzomon Line (recommended): JR Yamanote inner loop from Shinjuku to Shibuya (6 minutes, 165 yen, JR Pass valid). Transfer to the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line at Shibuya, toward Oshiage. 22 minutes to Oshiage Station. Approximately 250 yen for the Metro leg.
Via JR and Tobu Line: JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku to Akihabara (22 minutes, JR Pass; transfer to the Tobu Skytree Line for 1 stop to Oshiage (not covered by the JR Pass). Total: about 35 minutes.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: At Shinjuku Station, take the JR Yamanote Line inner loop (clockwise toward Shibuya). 6 minutes.
Step 2: At Shibuya Station, transfer to the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line (Z, purple line). The Hanzomon Line platforms at Shibuya are underground. Follow the signs. Board a train toward Oshiage (Skytree) or the Tobu Skytree Line direction.
Step 3: Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line from Shibuya to Oshiage Station. 22 minutes, approximately 250 yen. Oshiage Station is in the basement of Tokyo Skytree Town.
Step 4: Follow the signs from Oshiage Station to Tokyo Skytree. The connection is underground. Purchase tickets or present pre-booked tickets at the ground-floor ticket counter.
Cost
JR Yamanote Shinjuku to Shibuya: 165 yen (JR Pass valid).
Hanzomon Line Shibuya to Oshiage: Approximately 250 yen (not JR Pass).
Total: Approximately 415 yen.
Travel Time
Shinjuku to Skytree ticket counter: approximately 35-40 minutes total using the Shibuya transfer route.
Taxi Option
A taxi from Shinjuku to Tokyo Skytree costs approximately 3,500 to 6,000 yen and takes 25 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. The train is more punctual during rush hours. A taxi is practical for early morning visits or late returns.
Best Option with Luggage
The train route is manageable but involves two transfers. Coin lockers at Shinjuku Station for large bags. Tokyo Skytree Town has bag storage at the basement level near the ticket counter.
Best Option Late at Night
Tokyo Skytree closes at 10:30 pm. The Hanzomon Line from Oshiage runs until midnight. The JR Yamanote from Shibuya back to Shinjuku runs past midnight. An evening Skytree visit from Shinjuku fits comfortably within the last train schedule.
Nearby Guides
FAQ
Is there a direct train from Shinjuku to Oshiage?
There is no single direct line from Shinjuku to Oshiage. The simplest route involves one transfer: the Yamanote Line to Shibuya, and then the Hanzomon Line to Oshiage—total journey about 35 minutes.
Can I use the JR Pass for the full journey from Shinjuku to Skytree?
Partially. The JR Yamanote Line from Shinjuku to Shibuya is covered. The Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line from Shibuya to Oshiage is not. No, all JR routes reach Oshiage directly from Shinjuku.
What is the best time to visit Tokyo Skytree from Shinjuku?
A clear morning departure from Shinjuku, arriving at Skytree by 9 am or 10 am, offers the best chance of long-distance views, including Mount Fuji. Evening visits from Shinjuku to take in the night view are also popular, and the return journey on the Hanzomon Line is comfortable.
