Admire Tokyo from 450 Meters High!
Inaugurated in May 2012, the Tokyo Skytree (東京スカイツリー, pronounced Tokyo Sukaitsurî) is a private tower primarily used for television broadcasting in the Tokyo area. It complements the Tokyo Tower, which has become too small compared to the surrounding skyscrapers.
Standing at a height of 634 meters, the Tokyo Skytree offers an unparalleled panorama of the entire city, even allowing a glimpse of Mount Fuji on clear days.
When to Visit the Tokyo Skytree?
The tower is popular among both tourists and Tokyoites. On clear days, especially on Sunday afternoons, the wait time can quickly exceed an hour. Employees inform visitors of the remaining wait time using signs placed at certain points in the line. To avoid frustration, it's advisable to arrive early to fully enjoy your visit. Once at the top, you can stay as long as you like to admire the view.
In the elevator, you'll be accompanied by a hostess offering impeccable service. The ascent is a little show in itself, thanks to the speed of the elevator, one of the fastest in Japan, and its star-studded ceiling. Once you reach the top, take a moment to appreciate the hostess’s farewell before heading to the panoramic view.
How High to Go?
Tembo Deck at 350m
This first level offers access to three floors, including an observation deck, a restaurant, and a café. Prices for lunch or coffee are naturally higher than usual, but the pleasure of watching a sunset while sipping coffee at 350 meters high is worth it. You'll also find the highest mailbox in Japan!
Note that this level is the most popular, as it costs an additional 1,000 yen (~$7) to access the upper floor at 450 meters.
Tembo Galleria at 450m
After taking a second elevator, you'll reach 445 meters, then finish the ascent in a panoramic spiral to the highest point at 451.2 meters. The main advantage of this level is that it's less crowded, but the view remains similar to that of the lower level. To make the most of it, it's best to visit on an extremely clear day with little pollution.
Solamachi, the Sky Town
At the base of the tower is the "Solamachi" shopping complex (literally, the sky town), which spans about ten floors. It's an excellent place for entertainment, shopping, dining, or taking a coffee break.
In the same building is the Sumida Aquarium, featuring several collections of jellyfish and goldfish. We do not recommend visiting it (it's small and relatively expensive) unless you have a lot of free time or the weather doesn't allow for outdoor activities.
An interesting point: by presenting your Skytree or aquarium ticket, you can get discounts at certain stores. Given the attraction entry prices, this can be advantageous!
Alternative Ways to See Tokyo from Above
Since the Tokyo Skytree entrance ticket is quite expensive, here are two alternatives, one of which is free!
Tokyo Tower
The iconic Tokyo Tower, located in the Minato district, offers several observation levels, the first at 150 meters high for about $11. Although the view is partially obstructed by buildings, it remains interesting and offers a different perspective on the city.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Less known to tourists, the magnificent Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in the Shinjuku district offers free access to an observatory at 202 meters. This provides a beautiful view without spending a yen. However, expect longer lines.
What to See Around the Tower?
In good weather, head to the Asakusa Sensôji Temple complex, where you can visit Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple. This historic site perfectly complements your visit to the Tokyo Skytree, offering an immersion in traditional Japanese culture after a modern and technological experience.
