Tokyo Skytree is a broadcasting and observation tower located in Sumida, Tokyo. It is the tallest structure in Japan standing at an impressive 634 metres and is only second in the world to the Burj Khalifa.Tokyo Skytree has a very recognisable shape and can be seen for many, many miles. My favourite places to look out for Tokyo Skytree in the distance are when you are on the ferris wheel at Odaiba, or the Tower of Terror at Disney Sea as well as when you're climbing Mount Takao.
Tokyo Skytree is one of the newest attractions in Japan seeing as it only opened in the summer of 2012. It is host to nearly 6 million visitors each year and has the most amazing views of the whole city.
Tokyo Skytree is easy to get to by train because Oshiage Station and Tokyo Skytree Station are right across the street. Skytree station is accessible by the Skytree Line after a quick change at Asakusa you'll be able to arrive here from anywhere in the city.
From Asakusa you can return to take the train for the rest of the way or you can stroll across the Sumida River and make the journey on foot. This takes about 20 minutes and has some pretty 'Cool Japan' surprises on the way. If you decide to walk I recommend following the map on your smart phone because the streets of Japan are nameless. It can get kind of tricky otherwise!
As we made the walk towards Tokyo Skytree we found some unusual attractions that are uniquely Japanese. First was the beautiful Christmas tree pictured at the beginning of this post. Second we came across a mirror that was made for the perfect selfie with Tokyo Skytree! (Pictured below). Finally, we saw the cutest playground shaped as a boat. We followed the kids playing all the way to the top and I ended up on one of the fastest slides I've ever been on. The walk from Asakusa to Tokyo Skytree is truly worth these little discoveries.
Once you reach Tokyo Skytree there's so much to do apart from just the observation deck but before you get distracted by the amazing shops and restaurants I strongly recommend buying your tickets to the top because there will be a wait. Tokyo Skytree is open 8am - 10pm daily. The staff are more than helpful with making reservations in English. An adult ticket to the 350m deck is ¥2,060 (roughly $27AUD) if you would like to continue to the 450m deck tickets are an additional ¥1,030 (about $11AUD).
While you're waiting to visit the observation decks there is plenty to see and do with over 300 shops and restaurants. My favourites include the Studio Ghibli's Donguri Garden (close to Oshiage Station) and the Hello Kitty store. If time permits you can even visit Sumida Aquarium or the Minolta Planetarium. There really is something for everyone! If you're looking for more information about what to do CNN have written an extremely detailed review.
If you're like me and manage to spend the whole day at Tokyo Skytree when night falls you will be able to see the tower's illumination. Inspired by the Edo Period the illumination alternates between blue and purple each day. According Tokyo Skytree's official website the colours "express the concept that 'today' is connected to 'tomorrow', and, beyond tomorrow expands the 'future'."
If you're looking for any further information you may be able to find it here on Tokyo Skytree's website.
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