Visiting the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in Japan
A massive entertainment hub
As the tallest tower in Japan and the second highest self-supporting structure on the planet, the Tokyo Skytree dominates the skyline of Tokyo from a height of 634 meters. Funded by the powerful private railway company Tobu and the public broadcaster NHK, its primary technical purpose is as a telecommunications tower. Engineered for earthquake resistance, this architectural feat is anchored to the massive sora machi (literally sky city), a complex featuring a planetarium, an aquarium, and more than 300 shops.
A symbol of renewal
Inaugurated in 2012, the Tokyo Skytree has become a city icon located near the tourist district of Asakusa, famous for its historic Senso-ji Temple and situated just behind the distinctive Asahi beer headquarters, easily spotted by its golden flame sculpture. With its elegant lattice steel structure and slender profile that seems to pierce the clouds, it illustrates the balance between modern engineering and tradition. It also embodies a sense of renewal following the 2011 earthquake that impacted the eastern part of the archipelago.
Do not confuse it with the Tokyo Tower, an older structure modeled after the Eiffel Tower.
Two observation decks for a new perspective on Tokyo
After a high-speed elevator ride, you reach two observation levels. The first, at 350 meters, includes a section with a glass floor. For a bit of fun during overcast weather, you can test the Tokyo Skytree VR, a 3D and augmented reality simulator that mimics the experience of window washing.
The second deck, at 450 meters, provides a vantage point to identify the city's major landmarks and watch high-definition time-lapse displays. Beyond the numerous informational panels, a dedicated mobile app is available. If your schedule allows, arrive at sunset, when the city lights begin to flicker on across the horizon.
As a side note, the tower offers a photo printing service, and you can easily mail postcards to friends back home from the Tembo Deck Floor 345, which houses the highest post office in the country.
Opening hours
*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.