Tokyo Tower is a communications and observation tower located in the Shiba-koen district of Minato, Tokyo. Completed in 1958 and standing at 332.9 meters (1,092 feet), it is Japan’s second-tallest structure. Designed in the likeness of the Eiffel Tower but painted white and international orange to comply with air safety regulations, it has become one of the most enduring symbols of Tokyo’s post-war development.

The tower features two observation decks: the Main Deck at 150 meters and the Top Deck at 249.6 meters. These decks were renamed in 2018 after renovations. Visitors can reach them via elevators or, on weekends and holidays, by climbing an outdoor 660-step stairwell leading directly to the Main Deck.

Beneath the tower lies FootTown, a four-story complex featuring museums, souvenir shops, and restaurants. The tower’s income derives mainly from tourism and antenna leasing. Since its opening, over 150 million visitors have passed through its gates.

Tokyo Tower was originally equipped with transmission antennas in 1961, and it has since broadcast signals for major media outlets such as NHK, TBS, and Fuji TV. Although Tokyo Skytree took over digital broadcasting in 2012 due to its greater height_, Tokyo Tower continues to function as a broadcast and cultural beacon. The entire tower is repainted every five years, with the next scheduled repainting in 2024, a process that takes about a year.

The tower often appears in anime, films, and television series, securing its status not only as a tourism site but also as a pop culture icon.

• Subway (Oedo Line): Akabanebashi Station – 5-minute walk

• JR Yamanote Line: Hamamatsucho Station – 15-minute walk or short taxi ride

• Bus: Accessible via multiple Toei and Tokyo City Bus routes

• Visit before sunset to experience both day and night cityscapes

• Bring a tripod for night shots (if shooting from outside)

• Book tickets online to get a discount and skip queues

• Use the Tokyo Tower mobile app for floor guides and event updates

Admission Fee (Updated 2025):

Main Deck (150m):

• Adults: ¥1,500

• High school students: ¥1,200

• Children: ¥600–¥900

Top Deck Tour (150m + 250m):

• Adults: ¥3,500

• Children (age 4+): ¥1,700

Advance online booking discounts available (¥200 off)

Opening Time:

Open daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM (last admission at 10:30 PM)