Tokyo Skytree

The Tokyo Skytree (東京スカイツリー) is a television broadcasting tower and landmark of Tokyo. It is the centerpiece of Tokyo Skytree Town in the Sumida City Ward, not far from Asakusa. With a height of 634 meters (634 can be read as “Musashi”, a historic name of the Tokyo Region), it is the tallest structure in Japan and was the second tallest in the world at the time of its completion. A large shopping complex with an aquarium is located at its base.

Observation Decks

The highlight of the Tokyo Skytree is its two observation decks which offer spectacular views out over Tokyo. The two enclosed decks are located at heights of 350 and 450 meters respectively, making them the highest observation decks in Japan.

Tembo Deck (350m) — The lower deck spans three levels with great views from all floors. The top floor features tall, broad windows offering 360-degree panoramic views of the city. The middle floor has a souvenir shop and the Musashi Sky Restaurant serving French-Japanese fusion cuisine. The lowest floor features a cafe and glass panels in the floor for a vertiginous look downwards.

Tembo Galleria (450m) — Dubbed “the world’s highest skywalk,” this consists of a sloping spiral ramp that gains height as it circles the tower. The steel and glass tube allows visitors to look down from the dizzying height. At the top of the spiral ramp is a conventional observation deck floor with lounging areas at 451.2 meters — the highest accessible point.

A visit starts on the 4th floor where tickets are sold. A fast elevator takes visitors to the Tembo Deck, where tickets for the Tembo Galleria can be purchased. Visitors descend back through the first deck and exit on the 5th floor.

Tokyo Skytree Town

At the base of the tower, Tokyo Solamachi is an extensive shopping complex with over 300 shops and restaurants across multiple floors. The Sumida Aquarium is also located here.

Getting There

The entrance is on the 4th floor of Tokyo Skytree Town, between Tokyo Skytree Station (Tobu Isesaki Line) and Oshiage Station (Asakusa, Hanzomon, and Keisei lines). Alternatively, it is a 20-minute walk across the Sumida River from Asakusa. Direct buses also run from Ueno Station (30 min, 220 yen), Tokyo Disney Resort (45-55 min, 800 yen), and Haneda Airport (50-70 min, 940 yen).

Hours: 10:00–22:00 (from 9:00 on Sundays and national holidays). Admission ends one hour before closing. Closed: No closing days. Admission: Same-day tickets: 2400 yen weekdays / 2600 yen weekends (first deck), 3500/3800 yen (both decks). Advance tickets are a few hundred yen cheaper and guarantee a time slot.