Tokyo Skytree: What to See Around Japan's Tallest Tower?

Tokyo Skytree: Tokyo's New Icon

As soon as you approach the Sumida district, you can’t miss its slender silhouette. At 634 meters, Tokyo Skytree is the tallest structure in Japan and one of the tallest in the world. Opened in 2012, the tower was designed as a broadcasting tower, intended to replace Tokyo Tower for digital transmissions. Its architecture draws inspiration from traditional forms, evoking both a sword and the curves of five-story pagodas.

But it is above all its height that is truly impressive! Tokyo Skytree towers over the capital, offering a unique view of the historic districts and Tokyo Bay from its observation decks.

At 350 meters, the Tembo Deck offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Tokyo. The floor-to-ceiling windows allow visitors to take in the vastness of the capital: skyscrapers, residential neighborhoods, and major thoroughfares stretch as far as the eye can see.

On a clear day, you can even spot Mount Fuji on the horizon. On the floor, glass tiles also offer a dizzying view of the streets below.

To go even higher, head to the Tembo Galleria, 450 meters up. Its glass-enclosed walkway gradually gives you the feeling of walking in the sky. The climb offers an even wider panoramic view, with Tokyo stretching out in every direction.

Our favorite time to visit? Late afternoon, when the light gradually changes and the skyscrapers take on a beautiful, warm hue.

For a different experience, try spotting Tokyo’s major landmarks from the observation decks: the Imperial Palace, Tokyo Tower, the National Stadium, and even Tokyo Bay become true landmarks in the landscape!

For families, be sure to stop by the Sumida Aquarium, an aquarium featuring artificial seawater—a first in the Kanto region.

The bonus? The neighborhood takes on a whole new look at nightfall, when the Tokyo Skytree lights up above the buildings.

Each season reshapes the promenade: in spring, the cherry trees attract many visitors, while in fall, the red leaves create a more poetic atmosphere.

Continuing along the riverbanks also allows you to reach the traditional Asakusa neighborhood on foot, following the rhythm of the water.

Just a few minutes from the tower is Ushijima-jinja, a Shinto shrine founded in the 9th century. The shrine is particularly known for its ox statues, which visitors come to touch in the hope of improving their health in those specific areas. But what makes a visit especially interesting is the contrast with Tokyo Skytree: from the shrine’s grounds, the tower stands out against the trees.

Asakusa: Extend Your Visit to Historic Tokyo

You can’t visit Tokyo Skytree without taking advantage of its proximity to Asakusa, one of the capital’s most famous historic neighborhoods. As you walk to Asakusa, you’ll gradually come across the Kaminarimon Gate and Senso-ji Temple, before turning onto Nakamise-dori Street with its many shops.

• Book your ticket in advance. Tokyo Skytree is one of the capital’s most popular attractions, and the most sought-after time slots fill up quickly,
• Choose your time slot based on the atmosphere you’re looking for. A clear day is ideal for enjoying distant views, especially of Mount Fuji. For the atmosphere, we prefer late in the day, so you can watch Tokyo gradually light up.
• Allow time to explore the surrounding area. Don’t just go up the tower— set aside at least half a day to combine a visit to Tokyo Skytree with Solamachi, Sumida Park, and Asakusa.
• Keep the weather in mind. The tower’s height doesn’t guarantee a clear view! On cloudy or foggy days, visibility can be significantly reduced.
• Keep an eye out for special events: the base of the Skytree hosts several annual events, including a temporary ice rink in the winter.