Shinjuku Sumitomo Building Travel Guide

The Shinjuku Sumitomo Building stands as a testament to Tokyo's architectural innovation. Completed in 1974, the 211-meter-tall skyscraper quickly became a landmark due to its distinctive triangular shape, earning it the moniker "Triangle Building". Designed by Nikken Sekkei, the building was briefly the tallest in Japan and Asia, symbolizing the country's rapid economic growth during that era.The building's design incorporates a three-sided structure that maximizes space, although it features a large atrium that runs the entire height of the building. This design choice, while sacrificing some floor space, creates a unique internal environment. The building is engineered to withstand earthquakes, a crucial consideration in Tokyo. Recent renovations, completed in 2020, added a large glass roof over the Sankaku Hiroba (triangular plaza), creating an all-weather communal area and enhancing the building's sustainability.Today, the Shinjuku Sumitomo Building is home to a variety of businesses and restaurants. While the free observation deck on the 51st floor is now closed, the building remains a popular spot for its architectural significance and central location in the bustling Shinjuku district. The surrounding area offers wide, easily navigable streets, making it accessible for all visitors.