Tokyo Skytree
- Jan 4
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 3
A complete guide to visiting Tokyo Skytree
Image copyright: Ollie Ronin
Table of Contents
Overview
Tokyo Skytree is an impressive 634-meter tower located in eastern Tokyo that stands out as the tallest structure in Japan. It's the tallest tower in the world, and the third tallest structure in the world behind the Burj Khalifa in Dubai (828m) and the Merdeka 118 in Kuala Lumpur (679m). It dominates the skyline of Eastern Tokyo and is situated next to Asakusa and the Sumida River, making it a popular destination for travellers. Due to its distance from the iconic skylines of Central and Western Tokyo, many people say the views are a little disappointing, however, the engineering and architecture of Tokyo Skytree make it a unique experience and a worthwhile visit for most people.
The engineering and architecture of Tokyo Skytree is one of the most impressive elements when visiting the structure. The size of the tower is a visual spectacle that can be seen from anywhere in Eastern Tokyo. It's been designed to withstand a magnitude 8-9 earthquake, with a multi-tiered approach that ensures violent tremors have little impact on the integrity of the tower. This includes a central pillar that moves independently from the outer frame, oil dampening shock-absorbers, and foundations that reach 50 meters into the ground.
Once you arrive at the base, the tower appears to be leaning over you thanks to a curved frame that creates an optical illusion. At night time, it takes on a whole new character. A variety of lights illuminate the tower with different themes based on the changing seasons and local events. These illuminations sometimes pulsate in an ominous style reminiscent of a cyberpunk dystopian future.
A large shopping and entertainment complex sits at the base of Tokyo Skytree. It features numerous restaurants and souvenir shops, and a rooftop area that hosts fun events such as Oktoberfest and Christmas Markets.
Location & Access
Image source: tokyo-skytree.jp
Tokyo Skytree is located to the east of Asakusa and the Sumida River. It's easily accessible from anywhere in Tokyo thanks to a dedicated train station.
🕗 Opening Hours
10am - 10pm
9am on Sundays and public holidays
📍 Location
Eastern Tokyo (Google Maps)
💴 Entry Price
Lower deck: ¥2500
Upper & lower deck: ¥3500
Weekend surcharge: ¥300
Online discount: ¥300
Observation Decks
The upper deck. Image source: tokyo-skytree.jp
Tokyo Skytree features two observation decks. The Tembo Deck is the lower deck at 350 meters, while the Tembo Galleria is the upper deck at 450 meters. The cost is around ¥2500 and ¥3500 respectively. While the ¥3500 price might seem excessive for an extra 100 meters, the vibe on the upper deck is worth the extra price. Not only do you get a higher point of view, but you also get fewer people which makes a big difference to your viewing experience. The design of the upper deck also offers a different design aesthetic, which is quite nice.
Interesting Facts & History
The view at night from the Sumida River in Asakusa. Image copyright: Ollie Ronin
Although it's not the tallest building in the world, it's officially the tallest tower, standing at 634 meters tall.
It's the third-tallest structure in the world, after the Burj Khalifa in Dubai (828m) and the Merdeka 118 in Kuala Lumpur (679m).
Construction took 4 years to complete, starting in 2008 and finishing in 2012.
It's built to withstand earthquakes with a magnitude of 8.0 or higher, with some estimates stating it can even withstand a magnitude 9.0 earthquake in Tokyo.
The earthquake resistance is thanks to 3 strategies that reinforce each other:
1. The central pillar moves and sways independently of the outer structure, cancelling out the movement of the earth.
2. The foundations of the tower extend 50 meters into the ground, acting like the roots of a tree to prevent the tower from toppling or sinking during intense tremors.
3. The outer frame and central pillar are connected with oil dampening shock-absorbers.
It's a fully functional broadcasting tower.
The illuminations at night change regularly to express different seasons and themed events.
Useful Links
Image copyright: Ollie Ronin
Nearby Attractions
Skytree on the left and the Asahi Headquarters on the right. Image copyright: Ollie Ronin
Tokyo Skytree is only a 2-minute train ride or 20-minute walk from Asakusa, Tokyo's traditional district famous for Sensoji Temple. The walk from Skytree to Asakusa is quite nice as it crosses over the Sumida River.
It's also a 12-minute walk from the Asahi Beer Headquarters, an iconic building that has been designed to look like a glass of beer. The Asahi building features the Asahi Skyroom, a beer hall on the top floor that offers lovely views of the Sumida River and Asakusa.
