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Located in the capital of Japan stands a jaw dropping spire of red and white that springs up from the ground into the sky — Tokyo Tower. Standing at a whopping 333 meters tall, this iconic structure is more than just your average tourist attraction.
Completed in 1958, Tokyo Tower was modeled after the Eiffel Tower but built slightly taller to signify Japan’s ambitions to stand alongside the rest of the world’s great powers. Constructed in the wake of World War II, the tower symbolized not only Japan’s technological advancements but also its national pride. Initially, the tower was created as a broadcasting antenna to serve Japan’s growing television audience. With remarkable speed, it was completed in just over a year, utilizing scrap metal from U.S. tanks left from the Korean War.
For decades, Tokyo Tower held the title of Japan’s tallest structure until it was surpassed by the Tokyo Skytree which was built in 2012. Once Skytree was created, it became the new broadcasting tower for Tokyo. While Tokyo Tower still functions as a key communications structure to this day, most digital broadcasting has shifted to the taller Skytree, though the Tokyo Tower continues to serve radio and backup transmissions, emphasizing its lasting relevance. Although the tower is no longer the tallest, nor the newest, it continues to capture hearts of people from around the globe.
Visitors are drawn to the panoramic views from the tower’s two observation decks. On a clear day, Mount Fuji can be seen from both the middle and upper floors, creating a beautiful contrast to the urban city below. Inside, there’s more than just sightseeing and photo opportunities. The base of the tower is home to a shopping complex called Foot Town which offers museums, souvenir gift shops and tempting cafés.
There are multiple ways that one could go in order to reach the tower. Taking the Mita line to Onarimon Station, the Hibiya line to Kamiyacho Station or the Oedo line to Akabanebashi Station are all within a five minute walk to the tower.
Don’t be afraid to ask local railway staff for directions as some of the stations can be a bit confusing to navigate as a foreigner. Google Maps will also be your best friend when it comes to traversing Tokyo’s vast railway system.
The tower is open from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. each day, and with ticket prices ranging from 600 to 3,500 yen (USD $5 to $25) depending on your age, the tower is the perfect budget friendly outing for friends and family of all ages.
Over the years, the tower has also become somewhat of a film and pop culture icon. From being featured in countless anime, dramas and movies from Godzilla to Death Note, its unique blend of historical significance and modern style has made it a go-to backdrop for artists and photographers alike.
As Tokyo continues to grow both demographically and technologically, Tokyo Tower remains standing as a constant reminder of both the city’s rich history and ever evolving future.
Whether you’re finishing up a long day of touring shrines and temples or simply looking for a fun solo outing, Tokyo Tower is a great way to end a long day of exploring such an amazing city like Tokyo.
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