Tokyo Tower: The Symbol of Japan’s Capital City

Get to know more about Tokyo's most famous landmark!

evening Tokyo Tower view

Tokyo Tower (東京タワー) is the most famous landmark in Tokyo to the point that it has become the symbol of the Capital city of Japan.

Many of you may be curious about Tokyo Tower’s height. Standing 333 meters tall, Tokyo Tower is a communications and observation tower in Minato Ward, Tokyo.

The tower has been the symbol of Tokyo ever since it was inaugurated in 1958, and it has since attracted many visitors from both Japan and all around the world.

Even though it has been over 60 years since it first opened and ceased to be Japan’s tallest tower, Tokyo Tower still is a major tourist spot with lots of things to do.

Here, I will show you a little about this symbolic tower, including its history, appeal points, and how to get there.

I hope you enjoy it!

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.


What is Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower from far

After WWII ended and the Japanese people were starting to rebuild the country, the people wanted a monument to symbolize the strength and revival of the Japanese people. Coincidently at the same time, a broadcasting tower large enough to reach all the Kanto region was needed. That is how Tokyo Tower was decided to be built.

The tower was designed by Tachu Naito (内藤 多仲) and construction started in 1957. The construction took about a year for completion.

The design was inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and although some people are not fond of the orange and white coloring, it was colored so to comply with air safety regulations.

What to do & see at Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower from bottom

If you think that going to Tokyo Tower is all about getting to see the nice view of the city, then you will be surprised at all the different things you can do there. Here are just some of the things you can do at the Tower.

Tokyo Tower Main Deck

Main Deck is Located at a height of 150 meters, the main deck consists of 2 floors where you can have a 360-degree view of the whole city. Here, you can find a cafe, a live music club, and even a Shinto Shrine.

Tokyo Tower Top Deck Tour

Top Deck Tour is a tour you will have to book to get to the top deck. This tour will take you to the higher Tokyo tower observation deck at a height of 250 meters. The tour includes an explanation of the tower as well as several exclusive services.

Tokyo Tower Official Shop Galaxy (Foot town)

Tokyo Tower Official Shop Galaxy (Foot town)  where you can find many different souvenirs. From cookies and chocolates to Tshirts and toys. You will find anything related to Tokyo tower here.

Tower Gallery (Foot town)

Tower Gallery (Foot town) is an exhibition room where you can learn about Tokyo Tower. They also have temporal exhibitions.

How to get to Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower from the street

Since Tokyo Tower is situated in such a centric area, there are many ways you can get there. Here, I will show you how to get there by train and bus.

By Train to get to Tokyo Tower

There are various train stations located within walking distance, but the closest ones are the following.

  • Akabanebashi Station (赤羽橋駅) of the Oedo Line: 5-minute walk.
  • Kamiyacho Station (神谷町駅) of the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line: 7-minute walk.
  • Daimon Station (大門駅) of the Asakusa Line: 10-minute walk.
  • Hamamatsucho Station (浜松町駅) of the JR Lines: 15-minute walk.

By bus to get to Tokyo Tower

Or you can also take a bus from Tokyo Station (Marunouchi South Exit) which will take you to the “Tokyo Tower” stop. The bus ride takes about 20 minutes and the bus stop is just 1 minute away from the tower.

By Taxi to get to Tokyo Tower

Wanna go directly to Tokyo Tower from the airport or hotel?

Airport Taxi is one of the best services for transfer to and from Narita and Haneda Airport.

Now JWM readers have a 1,000JPY discount if they book with Airport Taxi!!

Coupon Code: JWM2023Airport Taxi

Tourist Reviews of Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower has long been celebrated as an iconic symbol of Tokyo’s skyline, attracting visitors from around the world. With its striking architecture and breathtaking panoramic views, it’s no surprise that this landmark enjoys impressive ratings across various platforms.

Overall Ratings

Tokyo Tower holds a Tripadvisor rating of 4.0/5 from over 8,400 reviews, reflecting its consistent popularity among tourists. On Klook, it has an even higher rating of 4.5/5, supported by an astonishing 277,000+ reviews. Similarly, Yelp users rate it 4.3/5, showcasing the tower’s widespread acclaim among both locals and travelers.

Individual Reviews

“Tokyo Tower is a majestic landmark that truly defines the city skyline. The panoramic views from the observation deck are awe-inspiring, offering a spectacular glimpse of Tokyo. A must-visit for its iconic architecture and unparalleled vistas. Highly recommended for anyone exploring Tokyo! “

– from Tripadvisor

“I didn’t have high expectations about this place and I was amazed by the history and architecture of this tower, the views are beautiful and it is well worth it if you are in Tokyo.”

– from Klook

These glowing reviews underline Tokyo Tower’s status as a must-see destination, combining historical significance with unparalleled views of the city.

Tourist attractions near Tokyo Tower

Zojoji Temple

-1st. Zojoji TempleSituated right next to Tokyo Tower, Zojo-ji is considered as one of the most important temples in Japan.  It is the head temple of the Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism in the Kanto Region.

Hamarikyu Garden

-2nd. Hamarikyu Garden: A scenic Japanese Garden near Tsukiji Fish Market that used to be the family garden of Tokugawa Shogun. You can enjoy both nature and metropolis scenery.

Hie Shrine

-3rd. Hie Shrine: Shinto Shrine in Akasaka, famous for being a place where people wish for safe child delivery. You will find stairs with many Torii gates aligned reminiscent of the Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto.

Roppongi Hills

-4th. Roppongi Hills: A popular landmark of Roppongi district. The modern complex of life and entertainment in Tokyo. You can find movie theaters, art galleries, restaurants, cafes, high-brand shops, and much more.

HIROO

-5th. HIROO: Located right between Roppongi and Ebisu, Hiroo is a trendy area that has a great number of delicious and photogenic street food shops. You can get there by taking the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line.

If you’re looking for places nearby where you can get a nice view of the tower, then check the following link!

Where is the Best Place to See Tokyo Tower??

Hotels & Restaurants near Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Prince Hotel (東京 プリンス ホテル) is a hotel located within walking distance from Tokyo Tower.

First opened in 1964, The Tokyo Prince Hotel is one of the most popular hotels in the area. The hotel was just renovated in 2017 and is situated just 3 minutes walk to Tokyo Tower.

Experience the luxurious services and accommodations that this hotel offers while enjoying the stunning view of the Tokyo Tower.

You can make reservations from the following link!

<<Book “Tokyo Prince Hotel” at the best price!!>>

Here are also some articles you may find helpful for when you’re looking for a place to stay near Tokyo Tower!

Most Affordable Hotels in Tokyo with Wonderful City Views!

Cheap Capsule Hotels in Tokyo

Hipster’s Favourite Hotels in Tokyo

Coolest Hotels in Tokyo

Best Hotels Near Tokyo Station

When it comes to restaurants, here are some articles you can check out to find good options during your Tokyo trip!

Best Restaurants for Lunch near Tokyo Tower

Best Restaurants in Tokyo

Best Wagyu Beef Restaurants in Tokyo

Best Michelin Star Restaurants in Tokyo

Top-Rated Sushi Restaurants in Tokyo


Want more ideas for things to do in Tokyo? Check out the following articles!

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Written by

Born and raised in Costa Rica, I started living in Tokyo from college. I love traveling within Japan & around the world. Since I wasn’t born in Japan, I know the cultural impact that you can get when visiting Japan for the first time and what you might be worried about before your trip. And I’ve lived long enough to somewhat understand the nuances of the Japanese culture that make this country such an attractive place to visit. Hopefully I can provide to you both the information you’re looking for and the information you didn’t know you needed to know.