Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower Photos ( 6
 )
|
Situated in Shibakoen in the center of Tokyo, the Tokyo Tower is considered a symbol of the capital city, also one of the most iconic landmarks in the sprawling metropolis. The 333-meter (1,093 ft.) high tower was constructed in 1958, even higher than the Eiffel Tower in Paris, which was inspired to build the red and white super tower. This famous broadcasting facility is also the second high building in Japan, only after Tokyo Skytree.
With two observation decks, the amazing tower is not only a popular photo spot for travelers but also offers a dazzling cityscape, and the night views are extremely gorgeous. At the foot of the tower, it has a 5-story structure called Foot Town and you can find some interesting souvenir shops and fancy restaurants.
History Background
During World War II in 1945, Tokyo suffered serious damage and many buildings were blown up. With the rapid development of Japan's economy, people began to look for a new symbol to symbolize Japan's reconstruction and prosperity. Thus, the Tokyo Tower was constructed to serve as the new symbol. Started in 1957, the red-white tower was completed in 1958 and its 333-meter height made it once the highest building in the world. Though it was inspired by the Eiffel Tower, the Tokyo Tower was actually designed by a Japanese architect. To better avoid frequent earthquakes in Japan, it was carefully calculated and tested to ensure its stability and durability.Three-Tier Iron Tower
The Tokyo Tower is composed of three sections: the 5-story Foot Town at the base, the Main Deck at 150 meters (492 ft.), and the top deck at 250 meters (820 ft.). Travelers can experience much fun on the towering iron structure.Foot Town
The Foot Town of Tokyo Tower has totally 5 floors but only 1-3 stories are open to the public. Nevertheless, it is enough to satisfy visitors’ exploration. Here you can find various great dining restaurants, souvenir shops, and cafes. It also features a Tokyo One Piece Tower theme amusement park and One Piece big fans cannot miss it.
|
|
Main Deck
Located at a height of 150 meters, the lower observation deck of Tokyo Tower is known as the Main Deck. This layer has two levels, with some gift shops and a café. Main Deck also features Tokyo’s highest located shrine, the Great Shinto Shrine of Tokyo Tower, where visitors can pray for good luck. Apart from that, the glass Skywalk Window is a must try challenge for you. Looking through the transparent glass, it is thrilling to experience walking in the sky and looking down at the buildings and cars below.Top Deck
The higher observation deck is located around 250 meters above the ground and it offers a more brilliant panoramic city view. Though the top deck has a smaller viewing space, it is worth taking a high-speed elevator from the Main Deck to overlook the city at a higher altitude. Also, there will be an audio guide there to introduce the city and the tower for you. The interior features a stylish decoration of geometric mirrors, offering a comfortable and beautiful space to enjoy breathtaking city views.Can I Climb the Tokyo Tower?
The answer is yes! Apart from the high-speed elevator, it is possible to climb nearly 600 steps from the base to the Main Deck as long as weather permits. What’s more, when you complete the climbing, you will acquire an “Ascending Stairs Certificate” and you can choose your favorite one from 10 signs. It is a meaningful sign to collect on your Tokyo trip.Light Show
Tokyo Tower is also known as “the candle of the city” thanks to its beautiful light show at night. The colors of the 180 lights are different in summer and winter. In cool winter, it shows an orange color while a white color will be added in summer. Generally, the Summer Version of light show starts from July 7th and it switches to Winter Vision in early October. Apart from that, the Infinity Diamond Veil, a new type of light show has been on display since 2019 and 268 LED lights will shine 12 different colors according to various months. It may also shine other colors on some special occasions. On usual days, the light show starts from sunset time to 0:00.
|
Tokyo Tower Night Views
|
Attractions Nearby
Apart from climbing the Tokyo Tower to appreciating beautiful city views, it is also recommended to pay a visit to Zojoji Temple, standing under the Tokyo Tower. With great historical significance, the Buddhist temple was designated as a family temple by Tokugawa Ieyasu and several tombs of the Tokugawa shogun can also be seen here. Travelers can also find a small museum in the temple. What’s more, some interesting museums around the Tokyo Tower are worth exploring, like the NHK Broadcast Museum, and Advertising Museum Tokyo.Opening Hours
Main Deck (150m): 9:00-22:30 (The last admission is at 22:00)Top Deck Tour (250m and the main deck is also included): 9:00-22:15 (The last tour is from 21:30 to 21:45)
Stairs to the Main Deck: 9:00-16:00（The last admission is at 16:00）
Note:
1. The admission time may be brought forward if any congestion happens.
2. It is also possible that the Top Deck Tour be cancelled due to bad weather on windy days or heavy snowy days.
Ticket
Ticket fares differ according to visitors of various ages.|
|
19 years & over |
16-18 years old |
7-15 years old |
4-6 years old |
|
Main Deck |
1,200 yen |
1,000 yen |
700 yen |
500 yen |
|
Top Deck Tour |
3,000 yen |
2,800 yen |
2,000 yen |
1,400 yen |
Note: The ticket fare for the Top Deck Tour also includes the Main Deck.
Getting There
By JR
Take JR to Hamamatsucho Station and get out of the North Exit, then walk about 15 minutes to get to Tokyo Tower.By Metro
1. Take Metropolitan Subway Oedo Line to Akabanebashi Station and walk for about 5 minutes.2. Take Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line to Kamiyacho Station. Get out of Exit No.1 and then walk for about 7 minutes.
3. If taking Metropolitan Subway Mita Line, you can get off at Onarimon Station or Shibakoen Station.
4. It is also possible to take Metropolitan Subway Asakusa Line to Daimon Station.