At a glance
The Shinjuku Sumitomo Building, known as the “Sankaku Biru”, is a striking triangular skyscraper in Nishi-Shinjuku. Featuring a vast atrium, glass-covered event plaza, and panoramic restaurants, it blends bold 1970s design with modern urban renewal—offering a unique space for architecture lovers, photographers, and culture seekers alike.
Photographs
Shinjuku Sumitomo Building
The Shinjuku Sumitomo Building (新宿住友ビル), nicknamed the Sankaku Biru [三角ビル, Triangle Building], is a pioneering skyscraper in Tokyo’s Nishi-Shinjuku business district. Completed in 1974, it was Japan’s first building to exceed 200 meters, reaching 210 meters with 52 floors. Its bold triangular footprint and sharp lines offered a stark contrast to the boxy towers of its time, establishing it as a futuristic icon in Tokyo’s rapidly verticalizing skyline.
At its core is one of the building’s most extraordinary features: a soaring triangular atrium that extends from the ground floor to the roof without interruption. This central void, rarely seen in high-rise architecture, evokes a cavernous sense of space and light. The geometric purity of the triangle is echoed throughout—from the sharp angles of the ceilings to the symmetrical alignment of walkways and beams—creating a unified architectural experience. Entering the lobby, visitors often liken the atmosphere to a sci-fi cathedral or space station, underscoring its imaginative impact.
As part of a major renovation completed in the 2020s, the building introduced Sankaku Hiroba [三角広場, Triangle Plaza], a massive, glass-roofed event space that reinforces the building’s public-facing mission. Measuring 140 meters long and 25 meters high, the plaza is column-free at its center, making it an ideal venue for exhibitions, pop-up markets, and performances. Beyond its cultural role, it also functions as a disaster response facility, capable of sheltering nearly 3,000 people—underscoring Tokyo’s blend of innovation with preparedness.
The complex offers more than just architectural intrigue. From the basement to the second floor, visitors can explore a well-curated selection of 26 shops and eateries, along with notable facilities like the Asahi Culture Center, which hosts workshops and lectures, and the Peace Prayer Exhibition Museum, a quiet space dedicated to reflection. On the upper levels, restaurants on the 48th to 52nd floors offer panoramic views of Tokyo, making it a serene retreat above the urban sprawl.
For photographers and architecture enthusiasts, the building is a visual playground. The atrium's verticality, filtered sunlight, and glass-and-metal detailing create opportunities for dynamic compositions, especially when shot with wide-angle lenses from low or high vantage points. The glass ceiling above Sankaku Hiroba also allows for atmospheric interior shots on rainy days. Exterior captures are best during golden hour when the triangle-shaped tower casts dramatic shadows against the Shinjuku skyline.
Blending historical significance with forward-thinking design, the Shinjuku Sumitomo Building remains a cornerstone of Tokyo’s urban evolution. Its triangular vision, from atrium to plaza, symbolizes the city’s embrace of form, function, and public spirit—offering both a space to admire and one to gather.
Before you go
Visitors should be mindful that the Shinjuku Sumitomo Building remains an active office building, bustling with workers and daily business activities. It is important to respect the working environment by keeping noise levels low and avoiding disruption in common areas. Triangular atrium is located inside the entrance hall and is hard to miss.
Public access to the building’s public spaces and shops generally follows weekday business hours. On weekends and national holidays, some shops and restaurants may close earlier or remain closed. The atrium and Triangle Plaza remain open during these times but may have limited services or events.
When to go
Weekend mornings or early evenings are quieter, ideal for relaxed exploration and photography. Triangle Plaza hosts seasonal events and festivals, such as in April, which can be lively but more crowded. Visiting at sunset or after dark provides spectacular city lights and a different atmosphere For optimal viewing conditions, visit on clear weekday mornings when office workers are settled in and the building's unique triangular design casts interesting shadows through the central atrium.
Public review summary
Visitors praise the impressive triangular architecture and spacious atrium design while appreciating the convenient station access and variety of dining options. The first-floor plaza receives positive feedback for its open atmosphere and regular events. While the observation deck closure disappoints some, the buildings modern amenities and cleanliness maintain high satisfaction. The renovated public spaces and new event facilities draw particular approval.
What you'll find here
Location & access
- DirectionsAddress
2 Chome-6-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
- How to get there
By Public Transport: Directly connected to Tochomae Station (Oedo Line), a short walk from Nishi-Shinjuku Station (Marunouchi Line), and about a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station.
Common questions
What is the height and number of floors of the Shinjuku Sumitomo Building?
The Shinjuku Sumitomo Building stands 210 meters tall with 52 floors above ground. Completed in 1974, it was the first building in Japan to exceed 200 meters and was the tallest building in the country at the time of its completion.
Is the building wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Shinjuku Sumitomo Building features wheelchair accessible entrances and parking facilities. The building is designed with accessibility in mind to accommodate all visitors.
Where can I find the smoking area in the building?
The smoking area is located on the first basement floor, behind the escalators. The building maintains this designated smoking space to accommodate smokers while keeping other areas smoke-free.
What facilities are available on the lower floors?
The lower floors (B1-2F) house various shops and restaurants, with a total of 26 establishments. The building also features Triangle Plaza, an all-weather event space on the ground floor that regularly hosts various events.
What makes the building's design unique?
The building features a distinctive triangular design with a central atrium and visible exterior cargo elevator. Its earthquake-resistant bamboo tube structure creates an open-air center with floors only around the perimeter.
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