Tokyo Skytree is more than just a landmark—it’s a symbol of modern Japan and one of the most breathtaking attractions in the city. As the tallest structure in the country, it offers unparalleled panoramic views, exciting attractions, and unique dining experiences that make it a must-visit destination for travelers.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a foodie looking for a sky-high meal, or a photographer chasing the perfect cityscape shot, Tokyo Skytree has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know—from its fascinating history and cutting-edge design to ticket options, attractions, and insider tips for making the most of your visit.
Want to capture your Japan memories with a professional photographer? Check out our guided photography sessions and tours in Kyoto and Nara!
🏗️ The History & Design of Tokyo Skytree
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Tokyo Skytree was completed in 2012 to improve digital broadcasting signals in the Kanto region. As Tokyo’s urban landscape grew, the original Tokyo Tower (333m) was no longer tall enough to effectively transmit signals past the city’s high-rise buildings.
The structure was designed to be both modern and deeply rooted in Japanese tradition:
- Futuristic yet Traditional: The lattice design was influenced by Japanese aesthetics, blending modern engineering with Edo-era architectural styles.
- Height with a Hidden Meaning – Tokyo Skytree stands at 634 meters, a number chosen because it can be read as “Musashi” in Japanese (6 = “mu,” 3 = “sa,” 4 = “shi”). This is a historical reference to the Musashi Province, the old name for the area where Tokyo Skytree is located.
- Designed to Resist Earthquakes – The tower uses a shinbashira seismic damping system, inspired by five-story pagodas. The central column absorbs shocks from earthquakes, making Skytree one of the most earthquake-resistant structures in the world.
- One of the Tallest Towers in the World – Tokyo Skytree is the tallest structure in Japan and the second-tallest tower in the world, after the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.
- Two Different Light Themes – The tower’s LED illumination changes daily between Iki (sky blue), representing a chic and stylish Tokyo, and Miyabi (purple), symbolizing elegance and refinement. Special lighting patterns are also used for holidays and events.
🔗 Official Tokyo Skytree Website
🚆 How to Get There
📍 Best Access:
🚉 Tobu Skytree Line – Tokyo Skytree Station (Direct connection, most convenient access!)
🚉 Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line – Oshiage Station (Also directly connected, alternative option!)
Weather-Protected Access: Both stations are connected to Skytree, so you won’t get wet on a rainy day!
🚀 The Main Attraction: Getting to the Top
📍 Tembo Deck (350m) – The Main Observation Level
As the primary viewing platform, the Tembo Deck offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Tokyo and beyond. On clear days, you can even see Mount Fuji in the distance!
Photo Opportunities
- Professional Photo Service – Capture a high-quality keepsake at one of the designated photo spots, including an option with Skytree in the background.
- Selfie & Instagram Spots – Several marked selfie areas ensure you get the best angles for your social media photos.
Interactive Digital Displays
- Touchscreen Monitors – Identify famous landmarks through multilingual digital screens.
- Augmented Reality (AR) Viewer – Some exhibits provide an interactive AR experience, overlaying historical Tokyo maps onto the current skyline.
Stamp Collecting – Get Your Skytree Commemorative Stamp!
- Skytree offers exclusive stamps that visitors can collect as souvenirs.
- Stamp locations are typically found near the official shop and photo services.
Dining & Shopping on Tembo Deck
- Skytree Café (Floor 340 & 350) – Offering coffee, parfaits, hamburg steak, curry, beer, and cocktails with a stunning view.
- Official Skytree Souvenir Shop – Find exclusive Skytree-themed items only available at the observation decks.
Glass Floor (340m) – Look Straight Down!
- One of the most thrilling parts of the deck is the glass floor, allowing visitors to look directly down at the city below.
📍 Tembo Galleria (450m) – The Highest Observation Deck
The Tembo Galleria at 450 meters is known as the “Skywalk”, where visitors can experience an open, spiraling ramp with floor-to-ceiling windows, making it feel as if you’re floating above Tokyo.
Skywalk Experience
- The ramp gradually ascends from 445m to 450m, giving you a unique aerial perspective of the city.
- Sorakara Point (451.2m) – The highest publicly accessible point in Skytree!
Special Experiences at the Top Deck
- Exclusive Skytree Stamp – The highest stamp-collecting location in Japan!
- Limited-Edition Skytree Merchandise – Special high-altitude souvenirs only available at this level.
- Premium Photo Spots – Capture a commemorative photo at Japan’s highest observation point.
💡 Pro Tip: Best Times to Visit
- Daytime: Great for spotting landmarks like Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Bay, and even Mount Fuji.
- Sunset: A spectacular golden-hour view over the city.
- Nighttime: Tokyo lights up, making it one of the best skyline night views in the world.
🎟️ Ticketing & Access Tips for Both Decks
- Tembo Deck (350m) Access (¥2,100~): Available with a standard Skytree ticket.
- Tembo Galleria (450m) Access (¥3,100~): Requires an additional ticket purchase or a combo ticket.
- Special Experience Tickets (prices vary): This ticket plan includes an admission ticket to be enjoyed during a special experience such as yoga on the Galleria or sipping on cocktails at a night viewing.
- Experiences offered are subject to change. Please see website for current availabilities.
- Skytree Enjoy Pack (prices vary): This ticket plan includes an admission ticket along with a ticket to another chosen attraction or experience. This may be a ticket to the Sumida Aquarium, kimono rentals, or even a one-day pass for various transportation options.
- Attractions/Experiences offered are subject to change. Please see website for current availabilities.
💡 Tip: Buying tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save money and avoid waiting in long lines.
For a detailed guide on all the tickets options, their prices, and how to purchase them check out our other blog here. Also included is information on how to book reservations at Tokyo Skytree’s fine dining establishment, Sky Restaurant 634 (Musashi).
🎡 Experiences at Tokyo Skytree
🛍️ Shopping & Exclusive Merchandise
Although Tokyo Solamachi Mall is not technically part of Tokyo Skytree, it is located at its base and serves as a major shopping hub for visitors. With over 300 stores, it’s a paradise for shoppers and anime fans alike. Some must-visit spots include:
🎁 Ghibli Store & Pokémon Center – Perfect for anime lovers
🎁 Tokyo Banana Skytree Edition – A must-try sweet souvenir
🎁 Limited-Time Anime Collabs – Skytree often partners with popular franchises like Demon Slayer, One Piece, and Jujutsu Kaisen, offering exclusive merchandise you can’t get anywhere else!
🎥 Check out our video on Tokyo Station for more on Tokyo-themed souvenirs!
🍽️ Dining With a View
Skytree offers some of the best dining experiences in the city:
Sky Restaurant 634 (Musashi) – 345m
This fine dining restaurant offers a refined take on Tokyo Cuisine, blending traditional flavors with contemporary techniques inspired by the culture and history of Shitamachi, the old merchant district of Tokyo. Guests can enjoy an elegant meal while overlooking the breathtaking cityscape from 345 meters above ground.
💰 Budget: 8,000 yen – 34,000 yen per person
👶 Children can dine for 5,000 yen at lunch (dinner is restricted to guests aged 9 and older).
📅 Reservations required: Book Here
🛑 Private dining available: More Info
Skytree Café – Floor 340
Serving a variety of dishes, including curry, hamburg steak, parfaits, cakes, and beverages such as beer, sake, wine, cocktails, sodas, and coffee.
Skytree Café – Floor 350
More casual fare, offering ice cream, lemonade, beer, cocktails, wine, mocktails, coffee, tea, and small dishes like chips, corn dogs, and fried chicken.
📷 Skytree Photo Services
Tokyo Skytree offers professional photo services so you can take home a high-quality keepsake of your visit. Whether you want a commemorative shot against the panoramic skyline or a themed souvenir photo, there are several options available:
📍 Photo Spots
- Tembo Deck (350m) – Capture the moment with a stunning view in the background.
- Tembo Galleria (450m) – Take a memorable shot at the highest point accessible to visitors.
📷 Professional Photography Services
- Themed Souvenir Photos – Opt for a Skytree-exclusive backdrop or event-themed design.
- Instant Printing – Receive your high-quality printed photo immediately.
💡 Tips:
- You can purchase your photos as prints or digital downloads to share online!
- You can take a photo with Sorakara-chan, Skytree’s star-headed mascot! Look for scheduled meet-and-greets! (Japanese site only)
📸 Best Photography Spots for Capturing the Structure
✅ Makurabashi Bridge – 500m from Skytree, with stunning river reflections
✅ Sumida Park – Perfect for cherry blossom season!
🎉 Events & Seasonal Attractions
Tokyo Skytree hosts a variety of seasonal events, special exhibits, and light-up displays throughout the year! Whether it’s themed projections, anime collaborations, or cultural celebrations, there’s always something exciting happening.
✨ Illuminations & Light Shows: Special lighting displays for holidays like Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Tanabata.
🥷 Anime & Pop Culture Collaborations: Frequent tie-ups with franchises like Demon Slayer, Pokémon, and Sailor Moon bring exclusive merch and themed attractions.
🌸 Seasonal Experiences: Cherry blossom viewing events, summer festivals, and even winter illumination showcases.
📅 Check Out the Latest Events Here:
🔗 Current Skytree Events
🔗 Skytree Special Attractions
🌟 Final Thoughts on Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree isn’t just the tallest structure in Japan—it’s an experience that blends technology, culture, and breathtaking views into one unforgettable visit. Whether you’re exploring the observation decks, capturing stunning skyline photos, shopping in Solamachi, or dining high above the city, there’s something for everyone.
If you love modern architecture, panoramic views, and unique dining experiences, Tokyo Skytree is a must-visit in Tokyo. Whether you’re visiting during the day for crisp city views or at night for a glowing skyline, the experience is nothing short of magical.
Can’t decide between Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree? Check out our other guide to find your perfect skyline spot!
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