Tokyo Solamachi: A Modern Urban Playground
Explore Tokyo Solamachi: Shopping, Dining, and Attractions
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Since its opening as the commercial facility that’s accompanying the iconic Tokyo Skytree, it has quickly become a must for the locals in the area and an interesting enough option for tourists, not necessarily only for those who visit the iconic tower.
With several hundreds of shops and restaurants spread across multiple floors, it has a lot of fun experiences available! From fashion boutiques and souvenir shops to gourmet dining and unique attractions like the Sumida Aquarium and Konica Minolta Planetarium, it’s an urban playground that captures the spirit of Tokyo’s innovation and cultural richness.
Check also: 2 Days Itinerary in Tokyo: SHITAMACHI the Old Downtown
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What is Tokyo Solamachi?
Tokyo Solamachi (東京ソラマチ) is a large and popular commercial and entertainment complex located right at the foot of Tokyo Skytree, the world’s tallest tower. Officially opened in 2012, this extensive facility features over 300 shops and restaurants, making it a premier destination for shopping and leisure in the area.
The name “Solamachi” is meant to be translated as “Sky Town” (pronounced in Japanese as sora machi), in reference to its connection to Tokyo Skytree. Spanning several floors, Tokyo Solamachi is an excellent complement to the experience of visiting the tower, with cultural and educational attractions in addition to its wide range of retail and dining options. It’s designed to cater to a wide range of interests and ages, so it’s a perfect spot for families or groups of friends!
<<Get your Tokyo Skytree tickets here!>>
What to do at Tokyo Solamachi
Shopping: Explore countless stores offering everything from fashion and accessories to unique Japanese souvenirs and specialty items. The variety of shops includes well-known international brands, local boutiques, and specialty stores that provide a taste of traditional and modern Japanese culture. Don’t miss the 4th floor (East Yard)! You will find a great selection of specialty souvenirs in a shopping environment inspired by the Edo era!
Dining: No matter what you feel like eating, you’ll be guaranteed to find something to your liking, with both Japanese and International cuisines widely available at all the restaurants and cafes. Notable dining areas include:
- East Yard 6-7F: Solamachi Dining: This area features many eateries that serve both Japanese and international cuisines like sushi, ramen, tempura, or Western dishes.
- 30-31F: Solamachi Dining Skytree View: Located on the upper floors, this dining area not only provides delicious meals but also stunning views of the Tokyo skyline and Skytree, enhancing your dining experience.
Sumida Aquarium (すみだ水族館), West Yard 5-6F: The Sumida Aquarium is one of the best highlights of Tokyo Solamachi! This is a good chance for visitors to explore marine life up close. The aquarium features innovative and interactive exhibits, including a large tank that replicates the Tokyo Bay habitat, and an impressive display of penguins and fur seals in an open indoor environment.
The jellyfish display, with its dim illumination and ethereal tanks, is particularly popular. Educational programs and hands-on activities make it a great destination for families and anyone interested in marine biology.
<<Get your Sumida Aquarium ticket or combo ticket Aquarium+Skytree here!>>
More info: Sumida Aquarium: the Modern Aquarium at Tokyo Skytree
Konica Minolta Planetarium TENKU in Skytree Town (コニカミノルタプラネタリウム天空 in 東京スカイツリータウン), East Yard 7F: Experience the wonders of the universe at this state-of-the-art planetarium. “TENKU”, which means “sky” in Japanese, offers immersive star-gazing experiences with high-definition projection technology and a realistic dome screen.
The planetarium hosts a variety of shows, from traditional star field projections to more artistic and thematic presentations, often accompanied by relaxing music and soothing narratives. It’s a perfect place to unwind and explore the cosmos, whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing and different experience.
How to get to Tokyo Solamachi
The closest train stations are:
- Tokyo Skytree on the Tobu Skytree Line, right below the tower.
- Oshiage (Skytree) Station, served by the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Tobu Skytree Line, Keisei Oshiage Line, and Toei Asakusa Line, just a few meters away from the complex.
Tourist attractions near Tokyo Solamachi
Besides the obvious Tokyo Skytree above the complex, there are several other must-see spots in the vicinity:
Asakusa and Sensoji
Asakusa (浅草) is a historic district known for the famous Sensoji Temple (浅草寺), Tokyo’s oldest and most significant temple. The temple complex, with its iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and its bustling Nakamise shopping street, attracts millions of visitors annually. The surrounding neighborhood is well worth exploring as it retains a lot of the nostalgic vibe of old Tokyo.
Here you can explore quaint shops selling traditional snacks and crafts, and enjoy the picturesque surroundings, including places like Kappabashi, a paradise for cooking enthusiasts, or walking around the Sumida River. Asakusa is also home to various festivals and events throughout the year, so it’s definitely a spot that you cannot miss.
More info: 20 Best Things to Do in Asakusa
Sumida Hokusai Museum
Dedicated to the renowned ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai, the Sumida Hokusai Museum (すみだ北斎美術館) showcases his life and works, including the iconic “Great Wave off Kanagawa.” The museum, designed by the acclaimed architect Kazuyo Sejima, offers an insightful journey into Hokusai’s artistic legacy through interactive exhibits, original prints, and educational programs.
Here you can learn about the artist’s influence on Japanese and global art and explore his lesser-known works, gaining a deeper appreciation for his contribution to the world of art.
More info: Sumida Hokusai Museum: Enjoy Ukiyo-e Art in Tokyo!
Edo-Tokyo Museum
[Note: The Edo-Tokyo Museum is currently closed for major renovations until 2025. Follow up with the website for updates on reopening schedule and occasional activities organized until the museum is re-opened]
Located in nearby Ryogoku, the Edo-Tokyo Museum (江戸東京博物館) provides an immersive journey through Tokyo’s history from the Edo period to the present day. The museum features life-sized replicas, intricate models, and interactive displays that depict the city’s evolution over centuries.
Highlights include a full-scale replica of the Nihonbashi bridge and detailed recreations of Edo-period streets. The museum’s engaging exhibits and informative displays make it an educational and entertaining destination for visitors of all ages, offering a comprehensive overview of Tokyo’s cultural heritage.
More info: Edo-Tokyo Museum: Experience the Great History of Tokyo!
Ryogoku Kokugikan
Ryogoku Kokugikan (両国国技館), Tokyo’s main sumo arena, is just a short distance from Tokyo Solamachi. This iconic venue hosts three of the six annual sumo tournaments, providing visitors a chance to experience Japan’s national sport up close. When tournaments are not in session, the venue often features exhibitions and events related to sumo. The nearby Sumo Museum offers a glimpse into the history and traditions of sumo wrestling, with displays of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia.
<<Book here for Tokyo Sumo Tournament Tour in January, May and September!!!>>
More info: 10 Best Things to Do in Ryogoku & How to Watch Sumo in Japan
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Written by
Photographer, journalist, and avid urban cyclist, making sense of Japan since 2017. I was born in Caracas and lived for 14 years in Barcelona before moving to Tokyo. Currently working towards my goal of visiting every prefecture in Japan, I hope to share with readers the everlasting joy of discovery and the neverending urge to keep exploring.
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