Tokyo Tower Travel Guide: Iconic Views & Experiences in the Heart of Tokyo

Rising proudly above the Minato skyline, Tokyo Tower (東京タワー) is one of Japan’s most recognizable landmarks. Standing at 333 meters, it was once the tallest structure in the country and remains a symbol of post-war rebirth, innovation, and progress.
 

Inspired by the Eiffel Tower but painted in bright white and international orange, Tokyo Tower is far more than just a broadcast antenna. It's a popular sightseeing destination, offering observation decks, light shows, museums, and even a small aquarium. Whether you're catching the city skyline by day or enjoying a sparkling Tokyo nightscape, the tower promises unforgettable views and experiences.

📌 Quick Facts About Tokyo Tower

Location: 4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo

Height: 333 meters

Opened: December 23, 1958

Observation Decks: Main Deck (150m), Top Deck (250m)

Nearest Station: Akabanebashi Station (5-minute walk)

🎟️ Tokyo Tower Tickets & Hours

Tip: Book your Top Deck Tour online in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.

🗺️ What to See & Do at Tokyo Tower

1. 🌇 Main Deck (150m)

The Main Deck offers 360-degree panoramic views of Tokyo. On clear days, you can spot:

Tokyo Skytree

Roppongi Hills

Rainbow Bridge

Mt. Fuji (especially during winter)

📸 Don’t miss:

Glass floor panels—walk above the city for a thrilling perspective!

Night view—Tokyo lights up spectacularly after sunset.

2. 🔭 Top Deck Tour (250m)

This premium experience includes a guided audio tour and access to the tower’s highest point. Designed in a futuristic style with LED lights and mirrors, it offers a more immersive and exclusive experience.

🎧 Included:

Welcome lounge with drinks

Personalized tour in English, Japanese, or other languages

Priority elevator access

3. 🛍️ FootTown – Tokyo Tower's Base Complex

The 5-story building at the base of Tokyo Tower is packed with attractions:

Tokyo Tower Aquarium (1F): Over 900 species of tropical fish (small entry fee)

Tokyo One Piece Tower (closed in 2020, but occasional events still held)

Shops & Souvenirs: Get Tokyo Tower keychains, postcards, and exclusive snacks

Cafés and restaurants: Try crepes, curry, or even a Tokyo Tower-themed ice cream

4. 🏯 Nearby: Zojo-ji Temple

Just behind Tokyo Tower is Zojo-ji Temple, a beautiful and historic Buddhist temple. The contrast between the traditional temple architecture and the modern tower backdrop makes for a stunning photo opportunity.

Founded: 1393

Highlight: Hundreds of Jizo statues, dressed with red hats and bibs

5. 🏞️ Shiba Park

Surrounding the tower, Shiba Park is a relaxing green space ideal for a walk or picnic. It’s especially scenic during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and offers quiet views of Tokyo Tower from different angles.

📸 Best Photo Spots for Tokyo Tower

From Zojo-ji Temple courtyard – traditional meets modern

Shiba Park – particularly during cherry blossom or autumn foliage

From Roppongi Hills Sky Deck – get a distant but wide-angle city shot

At night – the tower is illuminated with various seasonal colors

🎨 Seasonal Light Displays

Tokyo Tower is famous for its colorful illuminations, often themed for seasons, holidays, or special events:

Winter: White or blue lights for a “snow” effect

Valentine’s Day: Romantic pink and red tones

Tokyo Tower Anniversary (Dec 23): Special countdown lights

Random Surprise Events: Lights honoring sports victories or world events

Check the official lighting schedule on Tokyo Tower’s website for updates.

🕰️ A Brief History of Tokyo Tower

Built in 1958 during Japan’s post-war recovery, Tokyo Tower was inspired by the Eiffel Tower but constructed 13 meters taller. It served as the country's primary TV and radio broadcasting tower for decades until Tokyo Skytree opened in 2012.

Today, it stands as both a nostalgic monument of Showa-era Japan and a vibrant modern tourist hub.

🍜 Where to Eat Near Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Shiba Tofuya Ukai: A luxury Japanese restaurant housed in a traditional building, serving exquisite tofu cuisine in a serene garden setting.

Towers Diner: Located inside FootTown; casual meals with tower-themed décor.

Rigoletto Bar and Grill (in Roppongi): Mediterranean fusion just a short walk away.

Ippudo Ramen (Azabu-Juban): Famous tonkotsu ramen near the tower.

🛍️ Tokyo Tower Souvenirs to Buy

Miniature Tokyo Tower models

Tower-shaped snacks like cookies and chocolates

Tokyo Tower postcards & magnets

Seasonal items like sakura or Christmas-themed goods

🚆 How to Get to Tokyo Tower

🚶‍♂️ From any of these stations, signs in English will guide you directly to the tower.

🏨 Where to Stay Near Tokyo Tower

Budget:

Guesthouse Tokyo Azabu – Friendly and cozy, 10 minutes walk

Hotel Villa Fontaine Tokyo-Hamamatsucho

Mid-range:

Mitsui Garden Hotel Shiodome Italia-gai – Stylish and centrally located

Hotel The Celestine Tokyo Shiba – Great views and walkable to the tower

Luxury:

The Prince Park Tower Tokyo – Luxury with direct views of the tower

Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills – Contemporary 5-star with skyline views

📅 Best Time to Visit Tokyo Tower

For the clearest views, visit early morning or sunset, especially in autumn and winter.

📝 Tips for Visiting Tokyo Tower

Visit on a weekday morning to avoid long lines

Bring a camera with a zoom lens for skyline and Mt. Fuji shots

Use the Top Deck Tour if you're a first-time visitor—it’s worth it!

Combine your visit with Zojo-ji Temple and Shiba Park for a full half-day trip

Check the official website for event updates, closures, or light displays

🧭 Suggested Itinerary (Half Day)

9:00 AM – Arrive at Tokyo Tower and explore Main Deck
10:00 AM – Join the Top Deck Tour
11:00 AM – Visit Zojo-ji Temple behind the tower
12:00 PM – Lunch at Ukai Tofuya or a nearby café
1:00 PM – Walk through Shiba Park or head to nearby Roppongi

🙌 Final Thoughts

Tokyo Tower is more than just a steel structure—it’s a beacon of modern Japan. With its sweeping skyline views, historical significance, and family-friendly attractions, it stands tall as one of Tokyo’s most cherished icons.

Whether it’s your first time in Japan or your fifth, no Tokyo itinerary is complete without a visit to Tokyo Tower.

So grab your camera, get your ticket, and see the capital from a whole new height.