Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower is a worldwide recognisable icon of Japan, so should this be on your to do list when you visit Tokyo?
Tokyo Tower was completed in 1958 and at 634m is the worlds tallest self supporting steel structure, standing 3m taller than the Eiffel Tower. It also functions as a broadcast antenna.
If you time your visit for late afternoon, you can catch the view during the day and at night!
Main Deck
The main deck can be accessed by an elevator or if you are up for a challenge you can go by foot and take the 600 stairs.
We decided on the stairs and it was a great way to see all around the city. It was an easy climb (we did it in heels!) and you can take your time taking photos. You even get a certificate to say that you climbed Tokyo Tower (although you are given the certificate even before you climb!).
From the Main deck you can walk around to for a 360 degree view. There is a cafe selling a few items, most of the restaurants are downstairs.
Top Deck
Top Deck requires an additional ticket which you can purchase with the main deck ticket or if you are not sure you can wait and then purchase it on the main deck, its just a little more expensive.
The Top Deck is a guided tour and explains the history of the Tower. The tour is in Japanese but you are offered an audio guide in a number of languages. I found this really interesting. The view at the Top Deck takes in more of the city, however, there are multiple mirror surfaces with changing coloured lights making it really hard to take a night photo!
So is it worth the trip?
Although this view is spectacular it is not as high as the two viewing platforms at Tokyo Skytree. However, the character of the iconic Tokyo Tower is second to none and who doesn’t want to say they’ve climbed Tokyo Tower! I loved Tokyo Tower and would recommend the visit. We enjoyed going in the evening, it was quiet and the night view is fantastic.
Foot Town Shops and restaurants
At the base of Tokyo tower is Foot Town with souvenir shops, a Lawson and food court including the Tokyo Tower burger from Mos Burger, a Tokyo Tower exclusive!
If the kids still have too much energy after climbing the tower then check out The Red Tokyo Tower sports complex which has a number of esports and interactive games at the base of the tower.
Who would enjoy this…
If you enjoy taking in a view of the city, or just want to see the iconic Tokyo Tower then this is a must. Climbing the 600 stairs will be easy for kids from primary age and up and a great way to burn off extra energy and receive a certificate for their adventure!
Tickets
Hours: Open from 9am to 11pm. Every day.
Main Deck ¥1200 (take the elevator or stairs)
Both Main deck and Top Deck ¥3000 (if you are not sure, you can purchase the main deck ticket and then purchase the Top Deck ticket from the main deck).
Pre-purchased tickets.
Tickets can be pre purchased online and a time slot for entry allocated, however, this site is Japanese only and needs a Japanese credit card. There are some English sites such as Klook, Voyagin and JTB travel that sell pre purchased tickets, although these can be more expensive than purchasing from the ticket counter on the day, some are flexible with days and some are not, so it can be a gamble if the weather is not great.
How to get here
The Tokyo Tower Website has up to date information about how to get to the tower.
Trains
There are multiple railway lines that are within walking distance to the tower, closest station is the Akabanebashi station on the Oedo subway line which is about 5 minutes walk.
If you have a JR pass then Hamamatsucho station on the Yamanote line is about a 15 minute walk.
Shuttle Bus
There is a free JR Hydrogen Shuttle bus. Check out this page for routes and information.
Need more information?
Official Tokyo Tower page with info about special lighting, exhibitions and shops.
Japan Guide
Red Tokyo Tower sports and entertainment complex
