Visiting Tokyo Skytree, Japan's Tallest Tower
A massive entertainment complex
As the highest tower in the country and the second-tallest freestanding structure in the world, the Tokyo Skytree towers over the Japanese capital at a height of 634 meters. Funded by the powerful private railway company Tobu alongside the broadcasting group NHK, it functions primarily as a telecommunications tower. Built to withstand earthquakes, this architectural feat is integrated into the massive sora machi, literally meaning city-sky, a shopping and leisure center featuring a planetarium, an aquarium, and over 300 shops.
A symbol of renewal
Opened in 2012, the Tokyo Skytree has become a true city landmark, located near the tourist neighborhood of Asakusa, famous for its striking Senso-ji Temple, and just behind the unusual headquarters of Asahi beer, easily spotted by its golden flame. With its elegant metal lattice and slender shape seeming to pierce the sky, it illustrates the balance between modernity and tradition. It also embodies renewal following the devastating earthquake of 2011 that heavily impacted the eastern part of the archipelago.
Not to be confused with Tokyo Tower, a replica of the Eiffel Tower.
2 observation decks to see Tokyo from a different angle
After a lightning-fast elevator ride, you will reach its two impressive observation decks. The first, at 350 meters, features a glass floor. Fun fact: in bad weather, you can try out a 3D and augmented reality window-washing simulator called Tokyo Skytree VR.
The second deck, located at a height of 450 meters, lets you spot the city's main buildings and take in continuous time-lapse views. Along with numerous explanatory panels, a mobile app was specifically created for visitors. If you can, visit around sunset when Tokyo lights up, transforming the view entirely.
As a side note, the tower offers a photo printing service so you can easily mail postcards to friends and family back home, thanks to the presence of the country's highest post office on the Tembo Deck Floor 345.
Opening hours
| Monday | 08:00-22:00 |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 08:00-22:00 |
| Wednesday | 08:00-22:00 |
| Thursday | 08:00-22:00 |
| Friday | 08:00-22:00 |
| Saturday | 08:00-22:00 |
| Sunday | 08:00-22:00 |
*Information subject to change
At 634 meters, the Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan. Located in the Asakusa neighborhood, it offers a completely different view than the Tokyo Tower. The slender shape of the building itself is also interesting.
An alternative in the area is to go for a drink at the top of the Asahi beer headquarters, next to the golden flame, for a very nice and more affordable view of the city.