The Tokyo Skytree is an impressive sight to behold. It stands at a huge 634m in height, making it the tallest tower in the world (as recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records). Due to a cleverly designed vibration control system that absorbs up to 50% of seismic vibrations, this tower isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. The Skytree is mainly used for broadcasting Japan’s TV and Radio stations. But anyone can go up in the Skytree to observe the beautiful Tokyo skyline. The first viewing area (Tembo Deck) is stationed at 350m. If you’d like to go even higher, then you can pay a little more and go up to the Tembo Galleria at 450m.
Getting here is extremely easy thanks to the Tokyo Metro and Subway Lines. Oshiage station is pretty much underneath the tower, hence these days being known as the Skytree station. There isn’t currently a car park specifically for visiting, but there are nearby paid car parks to use and good public transport options. Entrance tickets are pretty reasonable in price, an adult ticket costs ¥2,060 for the Tembo Deck, and an extra ¥1,030 for the Tembo Gallery. Concessions are available for children, and students. The tickets allow for one trip up and down the tower, with unlimited viewing time.
On arrival you may be tempted to wander around the shopping center located at the base of the Skytree. There is a huge range of different shops and crafts for you the browse. Perfect for any gifts you need to buy for the family and friends. There are also Skytree official shops on the 1st, 2nd and 345m floor. Check out our guide explaining tax-free shopping, making your spending money go a little bit further.
Getting to the top of the Skytree is very fast thanks to the elevators that travel up to an ear popping 600 meters per minute. The lift doors open to unveil one section of the incredible view. You can walk in a circle all the way around the Tembo Deck, offering a 360-degree view of the Tokyo Skyline. When the sky is very clear you’ll get the added bonus of seeing Mt Fuji.
Two cafés and a restaurant are at the top. They’re pricey, but extremely worth it with the view that’s available right at your table. All along the deck there are decorations and some pretty clever interactive information points. I took advantage of my visit and stayed up the top for about 4 hours. Getting there around 4pm I managed to see Tokyo both by day, and by night. Both contrast each other. Both equal in beauty.
