Tokyo Skytree travel guide

Towering over Tokyo and stealing the crown from Tokyo Tower, Japan’s newest landmark is a record breaking architectural wonder that is ‘Tokyo’ to its core. Read more about Tokyo Skytree’s history and how to enjoy one of the best views in Tokyo.

What is Tokyo Skytree?

Tokyo Skytree is a communications and observation tower located in Tokyo’s Sumida district. Tokyo Skytree is a supertall, neofuturistic lattice-like structure with an observation deck and communication equipment in the top third of the tower. It was built to overtake broadcasting from Tokyo Tower which has lost most of its broadcasting capabilities thanks to other tall buildings being constructed close by.

Where is Tokyo Skytree?

Tokyo Skytower is in Sumida, to the north east of central Tokyo. It is located right next to Oshiage Station which is heavily signposted for the Skytree in English.

Tokyo Skytree height

At 634m, Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in the world and the second tallest structure in the world surpassed only by Burj Khalifa in Dubai. The roof of the observation deck is slightly lower at 495m which is still over five times higher than the Statue of Liberty.

Tokyo Skytree view

Thanks to the 360 degree observation deck, Skytree visitors can see the entirety of Tokyo and the surrounding countryside on a good day. If the weather is particularly forgiving, then you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance.

Tokyo Skytree observation deck

The building at the top of the Skytree tower actually has two observation decks: the Tembo Deck, and the Tembo Galleria. The Tembo Galleria is higher but has a more restricted view thanks to the lattice structure on the outside. The views are still superb.

The Temp Deck offers more space with bigger windows making it the best place for photographing Tokyo from above. There’s also the Tokyo Skytree shop and a café, so you can sip a tea at almost 500m.

Is Tokyo Skytree free?

Sadly not - the Tokyo Skytree entrance fee is around £20 for a combo ticket which gets you access to all sections. But, you can get cheaper tickets for the smaller deck with ‘restricted views’ - and with an unbelievable glass walkway around the outside which allows for some epic photos.

Where to buy Tokyo Skytree tickets

Although tickets can be bought at the office at the entrance, we strongly recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment. Tokyo Skytree can get very busy, especially during national holidays, so don’t turn up on the day and expect to walk straight into the attraction.

Tokyo Skytree weather constraints

Like many big cities, Tokyo suffers from air pollution which can reduce visibility significantly. Mix this with rain, fog and low lying cloud and suddenly the view from the observation deck isn’t as good as it is on a clear day. Just check the weather forecast on the day you plan to visit and consider moving your tickets if the outlook isn’t promising.

Can you see Mount Fuji from the top of Tokyo Tower?

Yes, if the weather is clear and there isn’t any smog, you can indeed see all the way across to Japan’s most famous mountain. If the weather or smog isn’t great, then book a guided tour of Mount Fuji from Tokyo to guarantee seeing the majestic mountain.

Tokyo Skytree glass floor

One of the most exciting parts of any visit to Tokyo Skytree is a daredevil walk on the glass floor. Suspended over 400m above street level, visitors can stand, sit or lie on the thick glass walkway, hovering over nothingness. Not for the faint hearted!

Should I visit Tokyo Skytree at night or during the day?

A tough one! You’ll be able to see further during the day if the weather is clear, but it’s hard to beat the shiny lights and glittering towers stretching off into the distance. Get the best of both worlds by booking your visit just before sunset!

Is Tokyo Skytree earthquake-proof?

Like many of Japan’s high-rises, Tokyo Skytree is built using materials that can flex and turn in the event of a big earthquake. Plus there are tuned mass dampers inside the structure which help to counteract shaking, so you’re pretty safe!

Is Tokyo Skytree worth doing?

Absolutely! You can tell everyone you’ve been to the top of the tallest tower in the world! Oh, and the views are utterly incredible. Thanks to Tokyo being the world’s biggest metropolis, the city seems to spread out endlessly in every direction, even from a tower as high as Tokyo Skytree. Plus, you can tuck into a meal in the café and have lunch looking out over Tokyo!