Tokyo Skytree
Kanto Region
Tokyo Skytree, located in Sumida, Tokyo, is a broadcasting and observation tower completed in 2012. Standing at 634 meters, it is the tallest tower in Japan and the third tallest structure worldwide. Designed to blend neofuturistic style with traditional Japanese aesthetics, the tower features a tripod-like base that transitions into a cylindrical form above 350 meters, providing expansive views of the city and Sumida River. It serves as the primary television and radio broadcast site for the Kantō region, replacing the older Tokyo Tower due to the latter's limited coverage caused by surrounding high-rise buildings. The tower includes two observation decks at 350 and 450 meters, with the upper deck featuring a glass-covered skywalk and glass flooring offering direct views downward. Its structure incorporates advanced seismic proofing, including a reinforced concrete central shaft and tuned mass dampers that absorb earthquake energy to ensure stability. The exterior is painted in a unique "Skytree White," inspired by a traditional Japanese bluish-white color called aijiro. Nightly illumination alternates between two LED patterns named Iki and Miyabi, symbolizing chic and elegance. Tokyo Skytree also anchors a large commercial complex with shops and the Sumida Aquarium nearby, accessible via the adjacent Tokyo Skytree Station. The tower's height was chosen for its numerical significance referencing the historical Musashi region.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit Tokyo Skytree on clear days to enjoy unobstructed panoramic views of Tokyo. Purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended to avoid long queues, especially on weekends and holidays. Visitors can benefit from combined tickets for the observation decks and nearby attractions like Sumida Aquarium. The tower is easily accessible via Tokyo Skytree Station and Oshiage Station. Evening visits offer a spectacular view of the tower's LED illuminations, which alternate daily between Iki and Miyabi themes. Check the official website for up-to-date opening hours and special events.
Interesting facts
- •Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and the third tallest structure worldwide.
- •Its height of 634 meters is a numerical pun referencing "Musashi," the old name of the region where it stands.
- •The tower's seismic design includes tuned mass dampers that absorb up to 50% of earthquake energy.
- •Its exterior color, "Skytree White," is inspired by a traditional Japanese bluish-white color called aijiro.
- •Two LED illumination patterns, Iki and Miyabi, alternate nightly, symbolizing chic style and elegance respectively.
History
Construction of Tokyo Skytree began with a ceremony on July 14, 2008.
The foundation for its tripod legs was completed by April 2009, and the tower reached 100 meters in August of the same year.
The planned height was increased from 610 to 634 meters in October 2009 to become the tallest self-supporting steel tower globally, with the height numerically representing "Musashi," the historical name of the region.
The tower was completed on February 29, 2012, and opened to the public on May 22, 2012.
It was developed by Tobu Railway and a consortium of broadcasters to replace Tokyo Tower as the main broadcasting tower for the Kantō region.
Place Guide
350-meter Observatory2012
The lower observation deck at 350 meters offers panoramic views of Tokyo with a capacity for up to 2,000 visitors. It provides excellent vantage points to see the Sumida River and cityscape.
450-meter Observatory and Skywalk2012
The upper observation deck at 450 meters features a spiral, glass-covered skywalk where visitors ascend the final 5 meters to the highest platform. It includes sections of glass flooring that allow direct views down to the streets below, offering a thrilling experience.
Seismic Dampers and Central Shaft2008-2012
The tower's earthquake resistance is engineered through a reinforced concrete central shaft and oil dampers that cushion seismic shocks. Tuned mass dampers help maintain the tower's stability by counteracting movements during earthquakes.
Exterior Lattice and Color2009
The tower's lattice structure is painted in "Skytree White," a unique color derived from the traditional Japanese bluish-white aijiro, blending modern design with cultural heritage.
LED Illumination Patterns2009
Tokyo Skytree is illuminated nightly by LEDs alternating between two themes: Iki (sky blue, chic) and Miyabi (purple, elegant). This lighting design highlights the tower's cultural symbolism and architectural beauty.
Contact
Phone: 0570-550-634