Tokyo Tower: Tokyo's Classic Icon with Dazzling Views!
- japansophy
- Aug 16
- 6 min read
Get ready to ascend a piece of Tokyo's heart and soul at Tokyo Tower (東京タワー)! With its instantly recognisable orange-and-white lattice design, this iconic broadcast tower is a nostalgic symbol of Tokyo's post-war resurgence and a beloved spot for truly classic panoramic views. Reminiscent of its Parisian cousin, the Eiffel Tower, Tokyo Tower offers a charmingly retro vibe combined with modern observation decks that provide breathtaking vistas of the sprawling metropolis.
Completed in 1958, Tokyo Tower was built during a period of rapid economic growth and served as a powerful symbol of Japan's renewed optimism and technological prowess. At the time, it was the world’s tallest self-supporting steel tower, a testament to Japanese engineering. The tower's height of 333 meters was a deliberate choice, intended to be one meter taller than the Eiffel Tower to symbolise Japan's surpassing of the Western world's post-war standards. Its distinctive paint job, a mix of "international orange" and white, is a requirement for aviation safety regulations. While newer towers have since surpassed its height, Tokyo Tower remains a deeply cherished landmark, radiating a sense of history and charm that modern structures can't replicate. If you're looking for iconic photos and a romantic glow, this is your spot!
Getting there – where is Tokyo Tower?
Tokyo Tower is centrally located and wonderfully accessible, sitting proudly in the Shiba Park area.
Nearest station: Tokyo Tower is within easy walking distance of several subway stations:
Akabanebashi Station (赤羽橋駅) on the Toei Oedo Line (closest, about 5 minutes walk).
Onarimon Station (御成門駅) on the Toei Mita Line (about 6 minutes walk).
Kamiyacho Station (神谷町駅) on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line (about 7 minutes walk).
Daimon Station (大門駅) on the Toei Asakusa Line and Toei Oedo Line (about 10 minutes walk).
By taxi: Taxis can drop you off directly at the base of Tokyo Tower, making it super convenient.
Accessibility: Tokyo Tower is a very accessible attraction. Elevators swiftly carry you up to both observation decks, and the facilities within are generally wheelchair and stroller friendly (wheelchair size restrictions apply on the top deck - 700mm x 1,200mm wide).
Opening hours & best time to visit
Tokyo Tower offers incredible views from morning till night, but some times are extra special!
Opening hours: Tokyo Tower is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:30 PM (with last admission usually at 10:00 PM). Hours may vary for special events or maintenance, so always check their official website before your visit.
Best time to visit:
Sunset: This is incredibly popular (and romantic!) for a reason. You get to witness Tokyo transition from daylight to a sparkling carpet of city lights – it's truly magical!
Evening/night: For the full "city of lights" experience, visiting after dark is fantastic. The Tower itself is beautifully illuminated, and the city below sparkles endlessly.
Weekday mornings: If you prefer fewer crowds and potentially clearer air (which can sometimes mean a better chance to see Mount Fuji!), aim for a weekday morning right after opening.
Clear day: Crucially, always check the weather forecast! A clear day is essential for expansive, long-distance views and the best chance to spot Mount Fuji in the distance.
Time to avoid: Weekends and Japanese national holidays can be quite busy, especially in the afternoons and leading up to sunset.
Reservations & admission
Getting up Tokyo Tower is generally quite straightforward, but it's good to know your options!
Reservations: For general admission to the Main Deck, reservations aren't always strictly necessary, and you can usually purchase tickets on-site. However, if you plan to do the Top Deck Tour (to the very top!), booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended, as these tours have limited spots and often sell out, especially during peak times.
Where to make reservations & how far in advance: Online tickets for both the Main Deck and the Top Deck Tour can be purchased via the official Tokyo Tower website. For the Top Deck Tour, booking a few days to a week in advance is advisable, and for peak sunset times, even further ahead.
Ticket/admission price: Tokyo Tower has two observation decks:
Main Deck (150m): Entry to this primary observation deck costs approximately ¥1,200 for adults.
Top Deck Tour (250m): This unique experience (which includes access to the Main Deck) is a guided tour to the higher observation deck, costing around ¥3,000 for adults (prices can vary).
Payment method: Tickets can be purchased with cash, major credit cards, and common IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) at the ticket counters. Online reservations typically require credit card payment.
What can you see & do at Tokyo Tower?
Tokyo Tower offers more than just views; it's a whole experience, complete with shops and entertainment at its base.
Main Deck (150 meters): This is your primary observation deck, offering fantastic 360-degree views through wide windows. You'll find a gift shop, a cafe for a quick refreshment, and the thrilling "Skywalk Window" – a small glass floor section that lets you look straight down!
Top Deck Tour (250 meters): If you're keen for a truly unique experience, splurge on the Top Deck Tour. This guided tour takes you to the highest observation deck, which features a stunning design with mirrored walls and special lighting, creating a futuristic, almost ethereal atmosphere. It's a more exclusive experience and offers even more dramatic vistas.
Foot Town: At the base of the tower is "Foot Town," a multi-story building packed with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's a great spot to pick up souvenirs or grab a bite to eat before or after your ascent.
Red Tokyo Tower: Located within Foot Town, this is a modern indoor theme park focused on Japanese entertainment, anime, and games. It's a great option for families or if you're looking for some high-energy fun.
Tower lights: The tower itself is famously illuminated at night. It typically glows in its iconic orange-red hue (warm lighting) or occasionally in white (cooler lighting) for special events or seasonal themes. Seeing it lit up from a distance is a classic Tokyo photo opportunity!
Tokyo Skytree vs Tokyo Tower: Compared to the newer Skytree, Tokyo Tower has a wonderful, slightly nostalgic, retro charm. It feels like a beloved classic that stands the test of time.
Events and features: Watch out for special happenings such as traditional performing arts, tea ceremonies, anime-themed events and go virtual bungee-jumping with the Tokyo Tower Bungee VR.
Japansophy’s Top Tips!
Top deck tour for the win! If your budget allows, the Top Deck Tour is a truly worthwhile upgrade for a more exclusive and unique experience. Book it in advance!
View from afar: Don't just go up the Tower! It's incredibly photogenic from a distance, especially when lit up at night. Head to nearby Shiba Park or Zojo-ji Temple for classic postcard shots.
Look for special illuminations: The tower occasionally changes its lighting colours for special occasions or events. Check their website to see if there's a unique light-up during your visit!
Combine with Shiba Park: The Tower is located within Shiba Park, which is lovely for a stroll and offers great ground-level views of the tower.
Explore Foot Town: Allow time to browse the shops and grab a meal at the base of the tower. Red Tokyo Tower also offers hours of entertainment (especially on a rainy day).
Facilities:
Tokyo Tower and its base complex offer excellent facilities for visitors.
Eating & drinking: You'll find cafes and snack bars on the observation decks. Foot Town at the base is packed with numerous restaurants and cafes, offering a wide range of Japanese and international cuisine, from quick bites to sit-down meals.
Toilets: Modern, clean restrooms are plentiful on all levels of Tokyo Tower and throughout Foot Town.
Baby-changing facilities: Baby-changing facilities and nursing rooms are widely available within Foot Town and on the observation decks.
Other attractions nearby:
Tokyo Tower's location puts you near a fascinating blend of historical sites and modern areas.
Shiba Park: The beautiful park surrounding Tokyo Tower is perfect for a leisurely stroll and offers excellent vantage points for photos of the tower.
Zojo-ji Temple (増上寺): Just a short walk from the base of Tokyo Tower, this impressive Buddhist temple (the main temple of the Jodo-shu sect) stands majestically with the tower as its backdrop – a fantastic photo opportunity blending old and new Tokyo.
Roppongi Hills: A slightly longer walk or short taxi ride will take you to Roppongi Hills, a modern complex known for its Mori Art Museum, upscale shops, and restaurants. Its observation deck offers a fantastic view including Tokyo Tower in the skyline!
Hamarikyu Gardens: A short taxi ride or pleasant walk away from the area, these traditional Edo-era gardens are beautiful, especially around the pond. You can even catch a water bus from here to Asakusa.
Ready to experience Tokyo's classic charm and breathtaking cityscapes? Our 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary includes a memorable visit to Tokyo Tower, perfectly combined with nearby historical gems!
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