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Why is the Tokyo SkyTree so famous? Is it worth going?
Updated: Oct 24
The tallest tower in the world, the Tokyo SkyTree has been wowing visitors since it opened in 2012. It is 634m (2080ft), 30 metres higher than the previous record holder, Canton Tower in China (604m). It is the third highest free-standing structure in the world and its top viewing level for visitors is at a sensational 450 metres high. But is it worth it?
Visiting Japan was a big dream come true for us and we landed in Tokyo with it being our 29th country together. Just two days in and we made a beeline for the Tokyo SkyTree! Our hotel was literally a ten minute walk away and we certainly couldn't resist the temptation of this tower. We just knew the views would be breathtaking and they most certainly were! That being said, it was super crowded, very hot and fairly expensive for two people.
Check out some of our epic highlights, find out more about its history, top fun facts, and how to book your ticket to the Tokyo SkyTree, should you decide to go!
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Plan ahead and save money by booking your tickets with Klook
● Get the combo tickets with Sumida Aquarium, Japanese sweets cafe, or 24 hours of Tokyo Metro / Subway rides for a discounted price!
● Enjoy an essential Tokyo experience from the tallest building in Japan, the Tokyo SkyTree tower, standing at 634 m tall
● Climb up to the Tembo deck, 350 metres above ground, and enjoy the spiraling skywalk to the 450 metre high Tembo Galleria
Our Tokyo SkyTree highlights
The Tokyo SkyTree was built by the Tobu Railway and several media broadcasters. Its primary function was to replace the Tokyo Tower which was struggling to provide communications, radio and television services to the Kanto Region given the large number of high rise buildings that had been developed around it. The official name was actually given to a nationwide vote to decide, with Tokyo SkyTree receiving 30% of the vote, the runner up being 'Tokyo Edo Tower'.
The height of The Tokyo SkyTree was determined not just by necessity, but also to future proof the tower from the same issues that had beset the Tokyo Tower. The exact measurement of 634 metres was also completely intentional, the figures 6 (mu), 3 (sa), 4 (shi) standing for 'Musashi', an old name of the region where the Tokyo SkyTree stands.
We felt pretty fortunate that we came on a clear day and we were able to catch a fantastic view of the city from all angles. The shadow of the tower over the buildings was super cool too. We spoke to someone who had visited before who mentioned some unfortunate weather problems, so we felt that little extra appreciation after that!
It was very hot inside so be prepared to for that if you go with any jackets or coats. Even though it is pretty busy, surprisingly you can actually find plenty of opportunities for a clear photo. Most people were also super friendly and polite too.
There is also a whole host of activities you can do at the SkyTree, with tons of stores and restaurants at the base of the tower (including the 634 Musashi Sky Restaurant at 350m). There are also various activities you can do such as Kimono dying and tile breaking, and there is even an aquarium!
Read on for some interesting Tokyo SkyTree facts, details on how to get to the Tokyo SkyTree and also how to book tickets for this top destination!
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8 Fun facts about the Tokyo SkyTree
Here are a few fun facts to know about the world's tallest tower!
⪢ The SkyTree attracts over 10,000 visitors per day
In fact, it has seen a peak annual number of over 4 million! The tower was visited by an incredible 20 million people in just its first 3 years of operation. People reportedly queued for over a week to get tickets prior to the grand opening, and it was sold out for its first two months!
⪢ The steel pipes used in the construction were all hand-welded on-site
The thickest steel pipe has a diameter of 2.3 metres and took four experienced welders three days to complete!
⪢ Steel alone was used as the framework for the Tokyo SkyTree
Owing to its impressive durability, resistance to earthquakes and strong winds, steel is a statement of advanced Japanese engineering. Unlike wood and concrete towers, the architects Nikken Seekei also chose steel as it is lightweight, helping to create an open environment that is easy on the eye and blends in with the sky.
⪢ The SkyTree has 'seismic proofing'
With its innovative central concrete pillar, alongside its tripod-like base and 'oil dampers' connecting the frame at 375 meters, the SkyTree is about as seismic proof as you can get. It is also able to maintain its centre of gravity as best as possible due to a specialized system which enables it to 'absorb' 50% of energy from an earthquake.
⪢ Edo-Komon
Be sure to take a moment too enjoy the distinctive almost lattice like patterns throughout the SkyTree. They are derived from traditional designs and dying techniques for Kimonos, called 'edo-komon'.
⪢ 3rd tallest building, world's tallest tower
The Tokyo SkyTree at 634 meters high is the third tallest structure in the world, behind the Merdeka 118 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (678.9m) and amazingly still dwarfed by the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, UAE at a whopping 829 meters. As a standalone tower, it beats its closest competition, the Canton Tower in China, which stands at 600 metres.
⪢ The fastest elevators in Japan
There are four main elevators in the Tokyo SkyTree and they have some impressive statistics! They have a max speed of 600 meters per minute, the fastest of their kind in Japan. Incredibly, they are so silky smooth that a coin has been stood balanced on the floor and not fallen for the entire journey to the top!
⪢ Not just elevators...
Each elevator or 'Tembo Shuttle' features vibrant visual design panels representing the four seasons in Japan, Cherry Blossom Skies, Sumida River Skies, Festival Skies and Miyakodori Skies. Can you guess the four seasons in English?
Tokyo SkyTree ticket information
There are a few different ticket options for the Tokyo SkyTree plus a whole host of different activities that you can book online in advance, or purchase on the day, subject to availability. We recommend booking ahead, as same day tickets are more expensive, and it can get very busy with high wait times.
There are two decks, Tembo Deck (350 metres) and Tembo Galleria (450 metres). Tickets can be purchased for both or one of the two.
⪢ Advance ticket
● Combo Ticket (both decks): ¥2700 JPY ($17.99 USD / $24.37 CAD / £14.21 GBP)
● Tembo Deck only: ¥1800 JPY ($11.99 USD / $16.24 CAD / £9.48)
⪢ Same day ticket
● Combo Ticket (both decks): ¥3100 JPY ($20.65 USD / $28.05 CAD / £16.32 GBP)
● Tembo Deck only: ¥2100 JPY ($13.99 USD / $19 CAD / £11.05 GBP)
⪢ Enjoy pack
This is a special plan that includes an admission ticket to both decks at Tokyo SkyTree, in a bundle with another attraction. These include the fantastic teamLab Planets, Sky Hop Bus, Tile breaking and Wish Hanging. Check out the full range of packages here.
**Prices are correct at time of publication (March 2024). Please check the Tokyo SkyTree website for the most up-to-date information.
We purchased our tickets same-day and even though it was very busy, we were able to purchase tickets with ease. There is a vast amount of electronic ticket booths, available in many languages, with plenty of staff to help and guide you too. It was really efficient and from point of entry to getting to the observation deck took around 30 minutes.
Note that you will be asked when purchasing the ticket to book a time slot. It took us around 20 minutes to queue / go through security, so do leave time for that just in case.
Plan ahead and save money by booking your tickets with Klook
● Get the combo tickets with Sumida Aquarium, Japanese sweets cafe, or 24 hours of Tokyo Metro / Subway rides for a discounted price!
● Enjoy an essential Tokyo experience from the tallest building in Japan, the Tokyo SkyTree tower, standing at 634 m tall
● Climb up to the Tembo deck, 350 metres above ground, and enjoy the spiraling skywalk to the 450 metre high Tembo Galleria
Things to know before visiting & opening times
⪢ Opening hours
The Tokyo SkyTree is open every day 10am - 10pm. Last entry is at 9pm.
⪢ Best time for the views
To avoid crowds, go early in the morning or later in the evening. If you're lucky enough to be there on a clear day, consider going at sunset for a magical experience.
⪢ Check the weather
Get a weather forecast before heading up; visibility can be limited on cloudy or rainy days.
⪢ Dress comfortably
You'll be doing a bit of walking and standing, so wear comfortable shoes. It can also get pretty hot, especially on sunny days. Even in December!
⪢ Explore Solamachi
The shopping and dining complex at the base of the SkyTree is called Tokyo Solamachi. Allocate some time to explore its numerous shops and dining options if you're interested. We warn you, it is a maze down there!
How to get to Tokyo SkyTree in Sumida City
There are a number of ways to get to the Tokyo SkyTree, depending on which part of the city you are traveling from of course. We opted to take the train, given its ease and affordability.
⪢ By Train
● Tobu SkyTree Line: This is the most convenient and direct option. The Tobu SkyTree Line runs from Asakusa Station to Kasukabe Station, with a dedicated stop at "Tokyo SkyTree Station" located right below the tower. Trains run approximately every 5-10 minutes during peak hours and offers a comfortable and scenic journey.
● Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Toei Asakusa Line, or Keisei Oshiage Line: These lines offer a network of connections throughout Tokyo and stop at "Oshiage Station (SkyTree)," which is a short 5-10 minute walk from the Tokyo SkyTree. While not as direct as the Tobu SkyTree Line, these options provide flexibility if you're coming from another part of the city. Check here for more station information.
⪢ By Bus
Several Toei Bus routes service the Tokyo SkyTree area, making it a budget-friendly option. However, navigating the bus system can be slightly more challenging compared to trains, especially if you're unfamiliar with the city. Using a translation app or researching the specific bus route beforehand is recommended.
⪢ By Taxi
Taxis are a convenient option, especially if you have luggage or are traveling with a group. Taxis are readily available throughout Tokyo, but fares can be significantly higher compared to using public transportation.
⪢ Japan Rail (JR) Pass
If you plan on traveling extensively by train, consider purchasing a JR Pass. It can save you money if you'll be using JR lines frequently during your stay in Japan.
Address: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan
Phone: (+81) 570550634
Website: tokyo-skytree.jp/en
This concept café uses cutting-edge robotics to offer work to people who have health conditions, allowing them to work & socialize remotely!
Our Tokyo SkyTree experience rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
We had a good experience but we did feel it was expensive, given that there are other (albeit smaller) towers that are more affordable, in some cases completely free. It was also super busy and very hot inside, which made it a little uncomfortable and harder to enjoy. That being said the view was incredible, although be sure to aim for a day with no clouds like we did!
As ever thank you for reading, and please feel free to share your experience, or ask any questions you may have, in the comments below. All feedback on the post is welcome too!
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Check out all of the places we visited in Japan courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more.
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Explore Tokyo with special offers from Klook
Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Tokyo. Whether you're looking to scale the Tokyo SkyTree, see Shibuya Sky or take a trip to teamLab Planets, Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities.
All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Japan. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience!
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