About Nippon Budokan
Nippon Budokan is a prestigious arena and concert venue located in Chiyoda, Tokyo. Originally built for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics to showcase traditional Japanese martial arts, its distinctive onion-shaped roof was designed to resemble Mount Fuji’s silhouette. Known as Japan’s most iconic concert venue and a dream stage for many artists, it has hosted legendary performances including The Beatles’ famous 1966 concerts.
Nippon Budokan / Capacity & Seating
Nippon Budokan has a concert capacity that varies depending on the stage configuration and seating arrangement. The venue features a circular arena floor with tiered seating sections surrounding the central performance area.
Nippon Budokan / Nearest Station
The nearest stations to Nippon Budokan are: Kudanshita Station (Toei Shinjuku Line, Hanzomon Line, Toei Shinjuku Line) – approximately 5-minute walk via Exit 2, and Takebashi Station (Tozai Line) – approximately 8-minute walk via Exit 1b. Both stations provide convenient access through Kitanomaru Park.
Nippon Budokan / Coin Lockers
Coin locker information for Nippon Budokan area is available at both nearest stations and surrounding facilities. Please check the specific locations and availability on concert days as lockers tend to fill up quickly during major events.
From Kudanshita Station (Toei Shinjuku Line, Hanzomon Line)
From Kudanshita Station, use the ticket gate closest to Exit 2 for the most convenient route to Nippon Budokan.
After exiting the ticket gates, head right toward Exits 1-4.
Follow the signs for Exit 2 (Nippon Budokan direction) and take the stairs up to ground level. This signboard area is recommended for meeting up with friends.
Once you reach the ground exit, you’ll see a sign indicating ‘Nippon Budokan 210m’ – you’re almost there!
Walk straight along the path. On your left is Chidorigafuchi (the moat), famous for cherry blossoms and crowded with hanami visitors in spring.
When you see the Kitanomaru Park signboard, turn left.
Pass through Tayasu-mon Gate. This historic gate from old Edo Castle is designated as a National Important Cultural Property.
After passing through Tayasu-mon Gate, continue straight along the path.
You’ve arrived at Nippon Budokan! Enjoy your live concert!
From Takebashi Station (Tozai Line)
From Takebashi Station, use the Takebashi direction ticket gate. This relatively small gate area is perfect for meeting up.
After exiting the gates, head to Exit 1b (Kitanomaru Park direction) and take the stairs up.
Once you reach ground level, turn right.
Cross the crosswalk at Takebashi intersection in the direction of Tokyo National Museum of Modern Art (as indicated by the arrow).
Continue walking with Tokyo National Museum of Modern Art on your right side.
Keep walking straight and you’ll see the National Archives of Japan building on your right side.
Just past the National Archives, you’ll see the Kitanomaru Park signboard – turn right here.
Continue along the path and you’ll start to see Nippon Budokan’s distinctive roof ahead on the right – you’re almost there!
You’ve arrived at Nippon Budokan! Enjoy your live concert!
Nippon Budokan / Basic Information
Bring an IC card (Suica/Pasmo) for coin lockers as they’re more convenient than cash. Arrive early on concert days as the area gets very crowded and lockers fill up quickly. The nearest convenience stores are located near both Kudanshita and Takebashi stations. Save this page to your bookmarks and double-check the directions on the day of your event for peace of mind.
🇯🇵 Japanese version: More detailed access photos and venue information are available in the Japanese article about Nippon Budokan.
