Tokyo Skytree All You Need to Know Before You Go

Tokyo Skytree, standing at 634 meters, is the tallest tower in the world and a must-visit attraction in Tokyo, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Here’s everything you need to know before planning your visit.

Getting to Tokyo Skytree

Reaching Tokyo Skytree is relatively straightforward due to Tokyo's well-connected transportation network. Here are the primary methods to get there:

• By Train: You can take the Tobu Isesaki Line and disembark at Tokyo Skytree Station. Alternatively, you can use the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Toei Asakusa Line, or Keisei Oshiage Line to get off at Oshiage Station. Both stations are a short walk from the tower.
• By Bus: Various city buses stop at Tokyo Skytree Station or nearby Oshiage Station. Check local bus routes for the most direct path.
• By Car: Tokyo Skytree has parking facilities, but it is advisable to arrive early or reserve your parking spot in advance due to its popularity.
• By Skytree Shuttle: The Skytree Shuttle service connects Tokyo Skytree Town with popular locations such as Ueno-Asakusa Area, Haneda Airport, and Tokyo Disney Resort. The fares vary depending on the starting point, with options like ¥220 for a single ride or ¥420 for a day pass.

Tickets and Admission

Understanding the ticket options is crucial for planning your visit:

• Types of Tickets: There are same-day tickets and advance tickets. Advance tickets are cheaper but require you to choose a specific day and time for your visit. This helps you skip the waiting line.
• Observation Decks: Tokyo Skytree features two observation decks: the Tembo Deck at 350 meters and the Tembo Galleria at 450 meters. You can buy tickets for just the Tembo Deck or a combination ticket for both decks.
  • Tembo Deck: Tickets start at ¥2,100 for weekdays and ¥2,300 for weekends and holidays.
  • Tembo Galleria: An additional ¥1,000 is required to access the upper deck.
• Special Tickets: International tourists with valid visas can enjoy a Fast Skytree Ticket, which allows them to skip the waiting line.

Best Time to Visit

Choosing the right time to visit can enhance your experience:

• Weather: Check the weather forecast before you go. Clear days offer the best views, and sunny afternoons are ideal for enjoying the panoramic views.
• Crowd: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends and holidays. If you can, plan your visit during the week to avoid long queues.

What to Do at Tokyo Skytree

Beyond the observation decks, there are several activities and attractions to explore:

• Observation Decks: The main attraction is the stunning view from the Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria. On clear days, you can see iconic landmarks like Mount Fuji.
• Shopping and Dining: At the base of the tower is Tokyo Solamachi, a large shopping complex with over 300 shops and restaurants. Here, you can find everything from local essentials to fashionable boutiques and souvenir stores.
  • Cafes and Restaurants: There are cafes and restaurants on the observation decks, but dining at Solamachi is generally more economical. Popular chains like Ippudo, Maisen, and Din Tai Fung have outlets here.
• Other Attractions: Nearby, you can visit the Sumida Aquarium, Planetarium Tenku, or explore the traditional heart of Tokyo in Asakusa.

Photography Tips

Capturing the best photos of Tokyo Skytree requires some planning:

• Best Locations: For great shots of the tower itself, consider visiting Asakusa, which offers excellent views across the Sumida River. Other recommended spots include Azuma Bridge and Komagata Bridge.
• Tripods: Note that tripods are not allowed in all areas of the observation decks. Practice handheld photography to capture the stunning views.

Security and Facilities

Before you go, it's helpful to know about the security and facilities available:

• Security Check: Be prepared for a security check before entering the tower.
• Parking and Accessibility: If you're driving, parking facilities are available, but it's advisable to reserve in advance. The tower is also accessible on foot from nearby areas like Asakusa.

Surrounding Attractions

Combining your visit with nearby attractions can make your day more fulfilling:

• Asakusa: This traditional district is just a 20-minute walk from Tokyo Skytree. Here, you can experience the old Tokyo vibe, visit Sensoji Temple, and try local snacks at Nakamise Dori.
• Ueno Park: Another nearby attraction, Ueno Park offers a variety of museums, gardens, and the famous Ueno Zoo.

By planning ahead and knowing these details, you can make the most of your visit to Tokyo Skytree and create lasting memories of your time in Tokyo.