Tokyo Metropolitan Building (Tocho)

The Tokyo Metropolitian Government building is the ninth tallest building in Japan, houses most of Tokyo's district offices, and is one of the most recognizable buildings within the downtown area. It is also the seat of power for the many municipalities that are governed within the eastern capital.

The modern facade was started in 1988 and completed in 1990 by architect Kenzo Tange at the expense of around 1 billion US dollars in order to replace the old Metropolitan building which was built in 1957 by the same architect. Moving the capital's governmental seat to Shinjuku at the time was a controversial move. By the 1970's, many of the buildings in the capital's old municipal seat district were well aged and lacking in space needed for the city's growing size. It was the tallest building in downtown Tokyo until a taller tower was constructed in 2006.

On clear days, it is best known for it's observation decks, one on each tower, which can provide a view of the entire city and it's notable landmarks -- including the Tokyo Sky Tree, the Tokyo Tower, and even Mt. Fuji.