Tokyo Skytree | Tokyo

The Tokyo Skytree (東京スカイツリー, Tōkyō Sukaiturī) is the tallest structure in Japan and the second tallest in the world, standing at an impressive 634 meters (2,080 feet). Located in the Sumida district of Tokyo, it is not only an iconic landmark but also a major hub for broadcasting, tourism, and entertainment. Here's an in-depth look at the Tokyo Skytree:

Background and Construction:

Opening Date: The Tokyo Skytree was officially opened to the public on May 22, 2012.

Purpose: The main purpose of the Skytree was to serve as a new broadcasting tower to replace the aging Tokyo Tower and to provide improved digital television and radio signals to the Greater Tokyo area. It also serves as a tourist attraction.

Design and Engineering: The Tokyo Skytree was designed by the architectural firm Nikken Sekkei, and its construction was led by Obayashi Corporation. The tower's innovative design features a tri-pod base, which gives it both aesthetic appeal and structural stability, particularly important for withstanding Tokyo’s frequent earthquakes.

Height: At 634 meters, the Tokyo Skytree surpasses Tokyo Tower by a wide margin (Tokyo Tower is 333 meters tall). The height of the Skytree was also chosen to represent the area code for the Sumida district, 6-3-4.

Key Features and Design:

1. Observation Decks:

The Tokyo Skytree has two primary observation decks that offer spectacular views of Tokyo and beyond.

Tembo Deck (350 meters / 1,148 feet):

• Located at 350 meters above the ground, the Tembo Deck is the lower of the two observation levels.
• It offers a panoramic 360-degree view of the city, with clear visibility of popular landmarks like Mount Fuji, Tokyo Disneyland, and the nearby Sumida River.
• There are glass floors at certain points of the deck that allow visitors to look directly down at the ground below, adding an exciting element to the experience.

Tembo Galleria (450 meters / 1,480 feet):

• This is the highest observation point on the Skytree, and it’s reached via a sloped corridor called the Tembo Galleria. The journey to this level offers unique views as visitors ascend.
• From the 450-meter observation level, the view is breathtaking and offers a chance to look out across Tokyo and all the way to Chiba Prefecture or even Mount Fuji on a clear day.
• There is also a skywalk experience, where visitors can step onto a glass-floored observation platform for a more thrilling experience.

2. Broadcasting and Communications:

Function: As a broadcasting tower, the Tokyo Skytree is a critical part of Japan's digital television infrastructure, transmitting signals for over 100 television and radio stations. The tower’s height and location allow it to reach a wide area, serving the Tokyo metropolitan area and beyond.

Design: The tower is supported by a strong tri-pod base and has a sleek, tapering shape that makes it appear to float in the sky. Its exterior is illuminated with LED lighting, creating a beautiful visual effect in the evenings. The design was carefully crafted to be both earthquake-resistant and aesthetically pleasing.

3. Shopping and Entertainment Complex:

• Tokyo Skytree Town: The Tokyo Skytree is part of a larger entertainment and shopping complex known as Tokyo Skytree Town. This includes:
  • Tokyo Solamachi Mall: A large shopping center with over 300 shops selling everything from luxury goods to unique Japanese souvenirs.
  • Aquarium: The Sumida Aquarium is located inside the Skytree Town complex. It features displays of aquatic life from the Tokyo Bay and other parts of the world.
  • Planetarium: The Tenku Planetarium offers a relaxing way to experience the stars and planets, located within the Skytree Town.
  • Restaurants: A variety of dining options are available, ranging from casual eateries to high-end restaurants offering stunning views from the upper floors.

Visiting Tokyo Skytree:

How to Get There:

• The Tokyo Skytree is easily accessible by public transport:
  • Tokyo Skytree Station (on the Tobu Skytree Line) is directly connected to the tower.
  • Oshiage Station (on the Hanzomon Line, Asakusa Line, and Skytree Line) is a short walk from the Skytree, making it accessible from various parts of Tokyo.

Opening Hours:

• The Skytree is typically open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with last entries allowed around 9:00 PM. However, hours may vary during certain seasons, so checking the official website beforehand is advisable.

Tickets and Admission:

• Tickets for the observation decks can be purchased either on-site or online. Prices vary depending on the level of access and whether you choose to visit both the Tembo Deck and Galleria or just one.
  • Tembo Deck: Approximately ¥2,100 (around $14 USD).
  • Tembo Galleria: An additional fee of about ¥1,000 (around $7 USD) to visit the higher observation level.
  • Discounts for children and seniors are available.
• Fast Track: For visitors who want to skip long lines, there is also an option to purchase a Fast Track Ticket for quicker access to the observation decks.

Best Time to Visit:

• The best time to visit Tokyo Skytree is either early in the morning or during the evening when the city is beautifully illuminated. Sunset and nighttime visits are particularly popular because of the stunning view of the city lights and the lights of the tower itself.

Fun Facts:

LED Lighting: The Tokyo Skytree has a unique LED lighting system that changes the colors of the tower at night. This lighting varies depending on the season, special events, and holidays. The tower's color is sometimes changed to mark cultural events or national holidays.

World Records: When completed in 2012, the Tokyo Skytree held the title of the world's tallest tower, surpassing the Canton Tower in China. It is now the second tallest structure globally, just behind the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

Earthquake Resistance: Given Japan’s susceptibility to earthquakes, the Tokyo Skytree was designed with advanced earthquake-resistant technology. Its central column is reinforced with steel and concrete to ensure it remains stable even during tremors.

Conclusion:

The Tokyo Skytree is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Tokyo. Its height and futuristic design make it an architectural marvel, and its observation decks provide some of the most breathtaking views in the city. Whether you’re looking to see Tokyo from above, shop, eat, or simply enjoy the beauty of the tower, it offers something for everyone. Its combination of cutting-edge technology, cultural significance, and entertainment options makes it an unforgettable experience.