Tokyo Tower, Symbol of Tokyo : Visit Landmark of Capital City in Japan!
Tokyo, Japan's capital, is known as one of the world's major metropolises and attracts numerous tourists annually. While filled with skyscrapers and cutting-edge trends, its popularity also stems from historical shrines and temples, nature-rich parks, and traditional shopping districts.
Tokyo Tower has long served as Tokyo's symbol. Even today, though its primary broadcasting role has been transferred to SKYTREE, it remains an iconic image of Tokyo in many Japanese people's hearts.
This article will guide you through Tokyo Tower's attractions and ways to enjoy your visit. Use it as a reference for planning your trip!
Tokyo Tower: One of Tokyo's Landmarks
Located in Minato-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo Tower opened in December 1958. It has remained a Tokyo landmark throughout the years, attracting numerous domestic and international tourists regardless of the season.
Following major renovations for its 50th anniversary in 2008 and 60th anniversary in 2018, it has become a tourist spot combining both traditional charm and modern elements. With its warm-toned color, Tokyo Tower truly represents one of Tokyo's most symbolic structures for many Japanese people.
Standing at 333m, Serving as a General Broadcasting Tower
Tokyo Tower was built as a comprehensive broadcasting tower for the Kanto region. Previous broadcasting towers reached only 177m in height, limiting their broadcast range to approximately 70km radius.
The construction of the 333m Tokyo Tower enabled broadcasts to reach a much wider area. At the time of its construction, it was the world's tallest self-supporting steel tower.
Currently, it serves as a backup broadcasting tower in case SKYTREE becomes unable to transmit signals.
How Does Tokyo Tower Differ from Tokyo SKYTREE?
As high-rise buildings increased over time, broadcasting from Tokyo Tower's height became challenging. This led to the construction of Tokyo SKYTREE, standing at 634m, to take over the broadcasting duties.
The most significant difference between the two is clearly their height. From SKYTREE, about twice as tall as Tokyo Tower, visitors can see a diorama-like view stretching into the distance. Meanwhile, Tokyo Tower's observation decks offer a perfect vantage point to appreciate individual buildings and street scenes.
Compared to SKYTREE's sleek, modern design, Tokyo Tower possesses a nostalgic charm.
5 Highlights of Tokyo Tower Explained by a Frequent Visitor!
The Eye-catching Red Color and the Impressive 333m Height
While Tokyo Tower is known for its vibrant red appearance, it's technically painted in "International Orange," a color specified by aviation law for high visibility from aircraft.
The tower's illumination changes seasonally - white in summer and orange in winter - creating an iconic Tokyo landscape. For its 65th anniversary, new colorful LED lighting effects were added, creating slowly transitioning illumination patterns.
To truly appreciate the tower's impressive 333m height, try taking photos from directly below. My recommended photo spot is "Shiba Park Area 4" near Tokyo Tower. From here, you can capture the quintessential "This is Tokyo!" photograph with the tower as your backdrop.
Experience a Spectacular View of Tokyo! The Thrilling "Top Deck" at 250m Above Ground
Source: Roppongi Keizai Shimbun
When it comes to Tokyo Tower's highlights, you can't miss the Top Deck. As you exit the elevator, you'll be amazed by a futuristic space surrounded by mirrors on the ceiling, walls, and pillars. The views from the windows reflect in the mirrors, creating an especially romantic atmosphere during sunset and nighttime.
From 250 meters above ground, an exclusive panorama awaits only those who visit the Top Deck. Since a guided tour is required to access the Top Deck, please check the tour details we'll introduce later if you're interested.
For those who want to fully experience Tokyo Tower's charm, the Top Deck is absolutely worth visiting!
The Glass Elevator to the Top Deck Offers an Exhilarating Ride!
Source: Good Design Award
A special elevator exclusively for reservation holders takes you to the Top Deck. This transparent elevator offers panoramic views of the surroundings.
The thrilling ascent from 150 meters provides both visual and physical excitement. It's wonderful to experience the anticipation even before reaching the Top Deck. Enjoy this special space accessible only to tour participants!
On Clear Days, You Might See Mount Fuji!
Source: Tabelog
From the 360-degree Top Deck, you might spot Mount Fuji on clear days. On crisp winter days, you can enjoy quintessentially Japanese views of snow-capped Mount Fuji.
Being at the heart of Tokyo, Tokyo Tower offers unique views of famous landmarks like Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Skytree all at once.
I recommend visiting just before sunset. The magical scenery where twilight meets darkness will create unforgettable travel memories.
The "Main Deck" at 150m: Relax While Viewing Tokyo's Cityscape
Source: PR TIMES
From the Main Deck at 150 meters, you can leisurely observe the traffic below and Tokyo's cityscape.
The 1F café, perfect for taking a break, offers popular "Premium Soft Serve" topped with official character-themed sweets. Alcoholic beverages and cold drinks come in special limited-edition cups featuring Tokyo Tower in day and night views, making you feel like you're getting something extra special.
The souvenir shop on 2F offers exclusive Tokyo Tower merchandise you can't find anywhere else.
For those who want to enjoy not just the views but also dining and shopping at a relaxed pace, be sure to visit the Main Deck!
Try the "Skywalk Window" with its Glass Floor!
Source: Official website
At the Main Deck's 1st floor, the "Skywalk Window" - a glass window that lets you peek directly beneath Tokyo Tower - is a must-see attraction. Through the rectangular window installed in the floor, you can look down 145 meters to the ground below, providing an thrilling experience.
It's no exaggeration to say this is my absolute favorite spot at Tokyo Tower, and I never miss visiting it. You can experience a mysterious floating sensation as if you're suspended in mid-air.
Since the window isn't too large, even those who aren't comfortable with heights should give it a try!
Tower Daijingu: The Highest Shrine in Tokyo's 23 Wards
Source: Official website
After enjoying the views, visit the "Tower Daijingu" shrine located on the Main Deck. Isn't it unique to find a shrine inside Tokyo Tower? Built in 1977, this prestigious shrine has been protecting Tokyo Tower's safety for many years.
Being "the highest shrine in Tokyo's 23 wards," it's believed to help students achieve "high" grades, attracting many students seeking blessings.
The souvenir shop sells ema (wooden prayer plaques) where you can write your wishes. These ema are officially blessed at the nearby Saiwai Inari Shrine.
If you want to create a unique memory at Tokyo Tower, make sure to visit!
"Open-Air Staircase Walk": Climb Tokyo Tower on Foot While Enjoying the Breeze
Source: Official website
On nice days, try the "Open-Air Staircase Walk"! This popular course involves climbing about 600 steps to reach the Main Deck, 150 meters above ground.
Even children or those who aren't very athletic can reach the top in about 15 minutes. Take your time and enjoy the pleasant breeze and scenery. Along the stairs, you'll find Tokyo Tower trivia quizzes and viewing spots where you can pause to admire the view.
This is perfect for those who want to physically experience Tokyo Tower's height or think "it's a waste to go up so quickly by elevator!" You'll receive a special certificate for completing the climb.
Join the Top Deck Tour to Learn About Tokyo Tower's History and Evolution
Source: KYODO NEWS PRWIRE
To visit the Top Deck, make a time-specific tour reservation in advance. Tours are available every 15 minutes from 9:00 to 22:15.
First, head to the Main Deck from the 1F elevator. At your scheduled time, go to the "Top Deck Gate" on the Main Deck's 2F, where you'll visit tour-exclusive observation points.
Afterward, take the special see-through elevator to the Top Deck and enjoy the spectacular views from 250 meters high!
Tower Archives and Memories Library: Exclusive Areas Only Accessible to Tour Participants
Source: Official website
Past the Top Deck Gate, there are viewing areas exclusively for tour participants.
The first area, "Tower Archives," features 59 monitors installed on the walls and ceiling, showcasing Tokyo Tower's various historical moments spanning 65 years. It's a must-see exhibition displaying views of the old Tokyo Tower and cityscapes that can no longer be witnessed today.
The second area, "Memories Library," is a room recreating the members-only Japanese restaurant "Maple Club" (Momiji-kan) that operated at Tokyo Tower's current location since 1881. The Maple Club was a bustling venue for entertaining foreign dignitaries and prominent figures. This retro space inherits the concept and pure Japanese-style ambiance, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a nostalgic atmosphere unique to that era.
Tokyo Tower Access and Basic Information
Address: 4-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyoa
Access: 5-minute walk from Akabanebashi Station on Tokyo Metro Oedo Line
Hours: 9:00-22:30
Closed: Open year-round
Phone: 03-3433-5111
Official Website: https://en.tokyotower.co.jp/
Why Not Visit Tokyo Skytree After Enjoying Tokyo Tower?
After exploring Tokyo Tower, why not visit Tokyo Skytree? Opened in 2012, Skytree's main attraction is its overwhelming height. At 634 meters, it holds the world record for the tallest self-supporting broadcasting tower.
From the observation deck at 350 meters, you can see Tokyo Tower standing dignified among Tokyo's vast cityscape - a sight worth seeing. The jewel box-like night view available in the evening hours will surely become a wonderful travel memory.
Experience the contrast between Tokyo Tower, beloved by Japanese people past and present, and Tokyo Skytree, which symbolizes Tokyo's new era!