Tokyo Tower opened in 1958 as the city’s broadcasting tower — a 333m painted-steel echo of the Eiffel Tower, intentionally taller. The communications role passed to Skytree in 2012, but the red-and-white silhouette is still Tokyo’s most recognisable structure. Most visitors photograph it from outside; the inside experience is now mostly historical and family-oriented.
What to Expect
Two paid decks: Main Deck at 150m (¥1,200, walk-in) and Top Deck at 250m (¥3,000 combo, reservation only). The Main Deck has a glass floor and historical exhibits; the Top Deck adds a 360° panoramic walkway. View is south-east toward Tokyo Bay; on clear winter days Mt Fuji is visible 100km west.
Most photographers actually shoot Tokyo Tower from Zojoji temple next door (the cherry blossoms + tower combination is the iconic shot) or from Roppongi Hills Sky Deck 2km north (looks down on the tower). Inside is fine, outside is famous.
Consider This Instead
For the actual best Tokyo skyline view (taller, newer, less crowded inside), head to Tokyo Skytree in Oshiage — 350m vs Tokyo Tower’s 250m, with the same Mt Fuji visibility. For the best photograph OF Tokyo Tower, the Mori Tower Sky Deck looks down on it from Roppongi.
How to Get There
Getting There
- 1Take Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line → Kasumigaseki
- 2Transfer to Hibiya Line → Kamiyacho Station
- 3Walk to tower → Tokyo Tower entrance
- 1Walk south through Shiba Park → Tokyo Tower
Tips
- Photo from Zojoji temple is the icon shot. Free; cherry blossom + tower combo (early April).
- Top Deck reservation only. Book online; sunset slots sell out 2 weeks ahead.
- Skip the inside if you have Skytree booked. Same view category, Skytree is taller and newer.
- Walk Shiba Park between stations. 10-minute walk through Edo-era greenery rather than metro transfer.
FAQ
Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree?
Skytree for the view (taller, newer, better Mt Fuji visibility). Tokyo Tower for the icon photo from outside. Most travellers visit Tokyo Tower from outside (free, 30 min) and book Skytree for the actual deck experience.
Is the Top Deck worth +¥1,800?
On a clear day with Mt Fuji visibility, yes — the 250m level reaches the top of the painted-orange section. Otherwise the Main Deck shows the same horizon.
Best time for the iconic Zojoji photo?
First week of April for cherry blossom + tower; year-round at sunset for blue-hour silhouette.
