Is Tokyo Skytree Worth Doing Review – Ultimate Guide Dec2021

Tokyo Skytree, standing at an impressive 634 meters, is not just a towering structure but a symbol of Japan's technological advancements and cultural heritage. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Tokyo, this guide will help you decide if Tokyo Skytree is worth your time and provide valuable tips to enhance your experience.

Getting There and Accessibility

Tokyo Skytree is conveniently located near several major train stations, making it easily accessible. The closest station is Tokyo Skytree Station on the Tobu Skytree Line, which is just a short walk from the tower. Alternatively, you can use Oshiage Station, served by several other lines, which is also within walking distance.

For those coming from further afield, here are some key routes:

• From Asakusa Station: Take the Tobu Skytree Line for a 1-2 minute ride to Tokyo Skytree Station.
• From Ueno Station: Transfer to the Tobu Skytree Line at Asakusa Station for a total travel time of 14 minutes.
• From Tokyo Station: Take the JR Sobu Rapid Line to Kinshicho and then transfer to the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line for a total of 16 minutes.
• From Haneda Airport: Use the Keikyu Line or Toei Asakusa Line for a 42-minute through service.
• From Narita Airport: Take the Keisei Narita Airport Line or Narita SKY ACCESS Keisei Line for a 49-minute through service.

Crowds and Best Times to Visit

Tokyo Skytree is a very popular tourist destination, attracting over 10,000 visitors per day. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting on weekdays instead of weekends and holidays. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late at night before closing.

Observation Decks and Views

The Tokyo Skytree offers two main observation decks: the Tembo Deck at 350 meters and the Tembo Galleria at 450 meters. The Tembo Deck is the most popular and offers stunning 360-degree views of the city. If you find it crowded, try visiting the lower floors (345 or 340 meters) which also have large viewing windows and tend to be quieter.

Ticket Prices

• Tembo Deck (350 meters): Approximately ¥2,100 for adults, ¥1,500 for students (12-17 years), and ¥900 for children (6-11 years).
• Tembo Galleria (450 meters): Requires an additional ticket, priced around ¥1,000 for adults.

Prohibited Items and Security

Before entering the lifts, you will go through a security and bag check. Certain items are prohibited, including scissors, knives, hammers, tripods, baseball bats, and pets. If you bring any of these items, you can store them in coin lockers available on various floors.

Coin Lockers and Baggage Storage

Coin lockers are available on floors B3F, 1F, 2F, 3F, and 4F, with prices ranging from ¥500 for small lockers to ¥1,000 for extra-large ones. For baggage, you can use the baggage storage counter on the 1st floor for a fee of ¥500 per item.

Facilities and Accessibility

Tokyo Skytree is well-equipped with facilities to ensure a comfortable visit:

• Toilets: Available on multiple floors, including accessible toilets and nursing rooms.
• Priority Elevators: For wheelchairs and strollers, providing easy access to the Tembo Deck.
• Information Counters: Located on 3F Tower Yard and 1F East Yard, offering English-language support and free guide pamphlets in multiple languages.

Dining and Shopping

Sky Restaurant 634

Located on the 345th floor, Sky Restaurant 634 offers French-inspired cuisine with Japanese refinement. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 60 days in advance. Prices range from ¥8,000 to ¥11,000 for lunch and ¥22,000 to ¥30,000 for dinner. Note that a ticket to the Tembo Deck is required to dine at the restaurant.

Tokyo Skytree Town

The base of the tower features a large shopping and dining complex known as Tokyo Skytree Town. Here, you can find a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, including the popular Moomin House Café.

Photography Tips

For photography enthusiasts, Tokyo Skytree offers several vantage points:

• Azuma-Bashi Bridge: Near Asakusa Station exit 4, this location provides a great view of the tower next to the Asahi building.
• Jukken Bridge: A 5-minute walk from Tokyo Skytree Town, offering a straight-on view of the tower with its reflection in the river.
• Nighttime Photography: Visiting at night offers incredible opportunities to capture the tower's dynamic lighting and the city's neon lights.

Visiting at Night

Visiting Tokyo Skytree at night is a unique experience:

• Dazzling Illumination: The tower is adorned with colorful LED lights that change with the seasons and events.
• City Lights: Witness the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo from the observation decks, which offer a peaceful and serene atmosphere despite the city's hustle and bustle below.
• Photography Opportunities: The nighttime view provides perfect subjects for photography, including the tower itself and the cityscape.

By following these tips and understanding what to expect, you can make the most of your visit to Tokyo Skytree and enjoy an unforgettable experience in one of Tokyo's most iconic landmarks.