A Complete Guide To Visiting Tokyo Tower
- Nov 6, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 12
Image Source: tokyotower.co.jp
Table of Contents
Overview
Tokyo Tower is a historical symbol of Japan, celebrating its post-war prosperity, and modelling itself on the Eiffel Tower in Paris. First constructed in 1958, it stands at 333 meters tall and offers gorgeous panoramic views over Tokyo. Its picturesque beauty can be enjoyed throughout the surrounding area, with various parks, streets, and temples complementing the view.
The tower contains two observation decks, one at 150 meters and another at 250 meters. The base of the tower is a shopping and entertainment complex called Foot Town, although most people visit for the observation decks. Weekends are particularly enjoyable, as the outer staircase is opened so visitors can climb the 600 steps to reach the first observation deck.
The position of Tokyo Tower showcases some of Tokyo's best architecture and skylines, highlighting the Roppongi and Ginza districts. On a clear day, you can even see the sunset over Mt. Fuji.
Tokyo Tower remains one of the most overlooked attractions in Tokyo. It's an amazing place to visit, with people often preferring it to busier observation decks, such as Shibuya Sky or Tokyo Skytree. At nearly 70 years old, the history it holds adds to its value, and climbing the steps on the weekend is so much more fun than taking another high-rise elevator.
Location & Access
Image Copyright: Ollie Ronin
Tokyo Tower is located in Roppongi, next to Ginza. It's easily accessed by train and is within walking distance to other attractions such as the Mori Art Museum. It's peacefully situated alongside Shiba Park and Zojo-ji Temple.
🕗 Opening Hours
9am - 11pm: Observation decks
9am - 4pm: Outer staircase, weekends and public holidays
📍 Location
Roppongi (Google Maps)
💴 Entry Price
¥1500: Lower observation deck
¥3500: Lower & upper deck
You can save time by purchasing a ticket online
Interesting Facts & History
Tokyo Tower in 1960.
Image Source: oldtokyo.com
Originally built in 1958.
Modelled after the Eiffel Tower.
At 333 meters high, it was Japan's tallest tower until Skytree was built in 2012.
The entire tower gets repainted by hand once every 5 years, the whole process takes a year to complete.
The iconic color is not actually red, it's "international orange", which is a color scheme required by Japanese aviation law.
It was originally constructed to withstand strong earthquakes, and was even retrofitted with upgrades in 2011 to ensure it withstands any future earthquakes.
It originally functioned as a TV antenna and is still in use today, broadcasting many of Japan's FM radio stations.
The nighttime illuminations change color with the seasons.
Nearly half of its construction used steel recycled from US Army tanks, leftover from the Korean War that ended in 1953, symbolising Japan's post-war transformation.
Useful Links
Image Copyright: Ollie Ronin
Nearby Attractions
Image Source: gotokyo.org
Tokyo Tower is located in the Roppongi district, which is a beautiful area filled with lovely art galleries, beautiful architecture, and gorgeous luxury hotels. It's right next to the peaceful Shiba Park, which is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a nice picnic, or a cup of coffee. It's next to Zojo-ji Temple, which provides an interesting contrast with the surrounding skyscrapers. You're also within walking distance to the Mori Art Museum and the National Art Center. You could easily spend a few days exploring everything Roppongi has to offer.
