Tokyo’s 333-metre answer to the Eiffel Tower went up in 1958, painted orange and white, and stayed the city’s tallest structure for half a century. Skytree has since taken the broadcast duties, but this is the tower Tokyo loves, lit at night and framed between the temple roof of Zojoji and the glass towers of Azabudai. The Main Deck at 150 metres has a glass floor and views across the bay; the Top Deck at 250 metres is a smaller timed tour.
Go at dusk, catch the city in daylight and watch the lights come on, then walk down through Shiba Park. The surrounding streets are quiet, and the tower is surprisingly intimate for a national symbol.
Tips
- On weekends and holidays you can climb the 600 outdoor steps to the Main Deck for a lower price and a certificate
- The orange Landmark Light switches on at sunset and gives way to a different colour scheme on special nights
- The best exterior shots are from Shiba Park and Zojoji temple, where the tower rises behind the temple roof