What Is Tokyo Skytree? Tokyo’s Iconic Landmark Tower
Tokyo Skytree is a 634 m broadcasting tower in Sumida City, Tokyo, known as one of the world’s tallest freestanding towers.
Since opening in 2012, it has continued to captivate travelers from Japan and abroad as a symbol of Tokyo sightseeing.
Beyond being a tourist attraction, it also plays a vital role as communications infrastructure supporting TV and radio broadcasting across the greater Kanto region.
Its biggest draws are the futuristic tower design that blends traditional Japanese “sori” and “mukuri” curves, and the spectacular panoramic views from the observatories.
Tokyo Skytree Observatory Highlights
Tembo Deck (350 m)
The “Tembo Deck” at 350 m is an open, airy observation floor with large glass panels arranged in a 360-degree layout.
On clear days, you can see from the tower’s base all the way out to about 70 km, enjoying Tokyo’s cityscape up close.
At night, sparkling Tokyo night views spread out before you, creating a magical scene completely different from daytime.
Floor 340 also has a glass-floor corner, offering a thrilling look straight down 340 m.
Tembo Galleria (450 m)
The “Tembo Galleria” at 450 m, another 100 m above the Tembo Deck, is a tube-shaped glass corridor.
As you walk along the gentle slope of about 110 m, you can enjoy the sensation of taking a stroll in the sky.
On clear days, you can take in Mount Fuji and the Kanto Plain, and the highest point “Sorakara Point” reaches about 451.2 m above the ground.
Enjoy Shopping and Dining at Tokyo Solamachi
At the base of Skytree, the commercial complex “Tokyo Solamachi” features more than 300 shops.
You’ll find plenty of Japan-only souvenirs, including wagashi sweets, character goods, and Skytree-limited items.
- Restaurant Area: A wide range of restaurants, including Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine.
- Solamachi Shōtengai: An area with a downtown atmosphere where you can also enjoy street-food-style bites.
Konica Minolta Planetarium “Tenku”
“Tenku,” located inside Tokyo Solamachi, is a planetarium where you can experience the beauty of space and starry skies with high-performance projection.
It also offers programs for adults, such as “healing planetarium” shows with aromatherapy scents.
Recommended for those who want to relax between sightseeing stops, or anyone interested in astronomy.
Sumida Aquarium
Sumida Aquarium, attached to Tokyo Skytree Town, is popular as an urban aquarium.
Highlights include penguin exhibits and dreamy jellyfish displays.
It offers a soothing break that feels different from the excitement of the observatories.
How to Get There and Ticket Information
Access
- Closest station: Direct access from Tobu Skytree Line “Tōkyō Skytree Station”
- Other stations: Direct access from Toei Asakusa Line, Tokyo Metro Hanzōmon Line, and Keisei Oshiage Line “Oshiage (Skytree-mae) Station”
Ticket Prices (Same-day Tickets)
- Tembo Deck (350 m): Adults 2,400 yen (weekdays) / 2,600 yen (weekends/holidays)
- Set ticket (Tembo Deck + Tembo Galleria): Adults 3,500 yen (weekdays) / 3,800 yen (weekends/holidays)
- Tembo Galleria add-on: Adults 1,100 yen (weekdays) / 1,200 yen (weekends/holidays) (purchase after entering Tembo Deck)
Buying online by the day before can save up to 400 yen.
During busy times, you may have to wait a long time to buy tickets, so online pre-purchase is recommended.
Preschool children aged 6 and under are free.
Best Time to Visit: Season and Time of Day
Tokyo Skytree’s observatories are open year-round, and opening hours vary by day (e.g., 10:00–22:00, and 9:00–22:00 on weekends/holidays).
As a guide, last admission is about one hour before closing.
Weekday mornings and late afternoon into evening are especially recommended when there are fewer tourists.
If you enter before sunset, you can enjoy the transition from daytime views to Tokyo’s illuminated nightscape.
In winter (December to February), the air is clearer and visibility improves, increasing your chances of seeing Mount Fuji.
Helpful Info for Travelers
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Tokyo Skytree Town.
- Coin lockers: Multiple locations inside Skytree Town, including options for large luggage.
- Barrier-free: Wheelchair-friendly facilities, including at the observatories, so anyone can visit with confidence.
- Multilingual support: On-site signage and ticket counters support multiple languages such as English, Chinese, and Korean.
Summary
Tokyo Skytree is a classic Tokyo sightseeing spot where you can enjoy sweeping views from the observatories, shopping and dining at Solamachi, and even a planetarium and aquarium.
With direct station access and excellent convenience, it’s recommended for both first-time Tokyo trips and repeat visitors.
If you buy tickets online in advance, you can reduce waiting time and enjoy your visit more smoothly.
