Tokyo Tower vs Tokyo Skytree: Icon Showdown
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Tokyo’s skyline boasts two towering giants that define the city in distinct ways: Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree. These iconic structures aren’t just about height—they represent different eras, attitudes, and visions of Tokyo. Built in 1958, Tokyo Tower evokes nostalgia with its striking red-and-white lattice design, reminiscent of post-war optimism and recovery. Fast forward to 2012, and the futuristic Tokyo Skytree rises to double its predecessor’s height, symbolizing Japan’s embrace of cutting-edge technology and digital media.
But beyond their obvious differences, there’s a playful rivalry between the two. Are you drawn to the retro charm of Tokyo Tower or the sleek innovation of Tokyo Skytree? Both towers have their unique appeal, so, which one should you visit? Full disclosure: I am totally partial to Tokyo Tower. For me, Skytree is still kind of new, and Tokyo Tower feels irreplaceable as the symbol of Tokyo. It even has its own emoji! (🗼)
But in the spirit of a fair comparison, let’s pit these two against each other in a showdown of Tokyo’s tallest stars!
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A Tale of Two Towers: A Quick History
Undoubtedly, Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree are two of the most distinguishable landmarks in the city’s architectural landscape, each reflecting the spirit of their respective eras.
Tokyo Tower (東京タワー) was completed in 1958, a time when Japan was rebuilding itself post-World War II. Inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris, it was designed to symbolize Japan’s revival and growing influence. Standing at 333 meters tall, it was once the tallest structure in Japan. The tower served an important role as a broadcast antenna and was a symbol of the nation’s newfound confidence and ambition. Over the years, it became a beloved symbol, representing the older, classic Tokyo.
More info: Tokyo Tower: The Symbol of Japan’s Capital City
<<Get your Tokyo Tower tickets here!>>
Tokyo Skytree (東京スカイツリー), on the other hand, came into being in 2012, over five decades later. By then, Tokyo had become a global powerhouse, and the Skytree was a symbol of the city’s high-tech future. Soaring to a jaw-dropping 634 meters, it quickly claimed the title of the tallest structure in Japan—and the world’s tallest tower at the time of construction. Besides being a broadcast antenna, it’s also a major attraction in a digital age, incorporating cutting-edge technology and design.
More info: Tokyo Skytree: The New Symbol of Modern Tokyo
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Size Matters – Height and Views
When it comes to size, with height and location the type of views will vary.
Tokyo Tower stands at a respectable 333 meters, making it a significant part of Tokyo’s skyline, even after all these years. Its Main Observatory, located 150 meters up, and its Special Observatory at 250 meters, offer a classic view of the city. From here, you can spot famous landmarks like Roppongi Hills and the Rainbow Bridge. The closer, more intimate perspectives let you enjoy the heart of Tokyo’s urban jungle. It may not reach the heavens but it offers a cozy familiarity and a panorama that has inspired generations.
Tokyo Skytree, however, dwarfs Tokyo Tower with its sky-piercing height of 634 meters. The Tembo Deck, located 350 meters up, offers a view that makes you feel like you’re floating above the entire metropolis. For those who want to take it even higher, the Tembo Galleria at 450 meters provides a thrilling experience as you look down on Tokyo from what feels like the edge of space. On clear days, you might even be able to catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji in the distance, giving you a truly panoramic view that extends beyond the city’s borders.
Design Showdown
Design-wise, Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree couldn’t be more different. Each tower embodies the architectural style and aesthetic priorities of its time.
Tokyo Tower was designed after the Eiffel Tower, with its elegant, lattice structure and instantly recognizable red-and-white paint. A retro design that was influenced by the need to adhere to aviation safety regulations, hence the bold color scheme. The simplicity and charm of the structure are a callback to an era when Tokyo was emerging from the shadows of World War II, using its newfound identity to create something that would symbolize progress and ambition. There’s a sense of nostalgia in its design, with the tower’s straight lines and sturdy frame reflecting the no-nonsense attitude of the time.
Tokyo Skytree, on the other hand, is the epitome of modernity. Its sleek, streamlined design is futuristic yet grounded in tradition: its structure was inspired by traditional Japanese craftsmanship, like the pagodas of ancient temples. But it’s not all about the past—Skytree’s design also incorporates cutting-edge technology, making it resistant to earthquakes and other natural disasters. The tower’s pale bluish color and spiraling form create a sense of flow and fluidity, as though it is constantly evolving with the city it watches over.
What’s Inside? Experiences and Attractions
Both Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree offer visitors a range of experiences that go far beyond just breathtaking views.
Tokyo Tower may be a classic, but it certainly hasn’t remained static over the years. Beyond the views, Tokyo Tower used to host the Tokyo One Piece Tower, a massive indoor theme park dedicated to the beloved anime series, which brought in many anime fans until its closure in 2020. However, FootTown, located at the tower’s base, still offers a range of attractions. Visitors can enjoy museums, souvenir shops, restaurants and even a modern indoor theme park.
Tokyo Skytree, on the other hand, goes all-in on the modern entertainment experience. The tower’s observatories—Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria—are ultra-modern spaces where you can even enjoy a café meal while floating hundreds of meters above the ground. Skytree’s base is connected to Tokyo Solamachi, a massive shopping and entertainment complex. Solamachi includes over 300 shops, restaurants, and unique attractions like the Sumida Aquarium and the Tenku Planetarium.
Nighttime Spectacle – Illuminations
When the sun sets over Tokyo, both Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree transform into glowing icons, with nighttime illuminations that have become a major draw for visitors.
Tokyo Tower is all about warmth and charm after dark. The tower is usually bathed in soft, warm orange light, giving it a cozy, inviting glow that’s hard to miss. During the warmer months it has a slightly cooler shade. The simplicity of the lighting suits its retro aesthetic, exuding a classic Tokyo vibe that feels almost nostalgic. Special occasions, however, bring unique lighting displays—during holidays or campaigns, the tower switches to a rainbow of colors, or even patterns that reflect various causes, such as pink for Breast Cancer Awareness or blue for World Autism Awareness Day.
See also: Where is the Best Place to See Tokyo Tower??
Tokyo Skytree, by contrast, takes nighttime illumination to another level. Its lighting is far more dynamic, often changing based on the season, event, or even daily mood. It has two regular lighting patterns—Iki (粋), which features a soft blue, and Miyabi (雅), which casts a violet hue. For special events like Christmas or Tokyo’s famous cherry blossom season, the tower lights up in vibrant, colorful displays that shift and change, creating a more interactive spectacle. The use of advanced LED technology allows Skytree to put on dazzling light shows.
Ease of Access and Surrounding Areas
Getting there and exploring the surrounding neighborhoods adds to the overall experience. Both Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree are conveniently located, but their neighborhoods offer entirely different vibes.
Tokyo Tower is located in the heart of Minato Ward, a central location that puts you close to a variety of Tokyo’s most famous spots. Just a short walk away is Zojoji (増上寺), a historic Buddhist temple with stunning views of Tokyo Tower looming behind it. The bustling neighborhood of Roppongi is also nearby, offering nightlife, dining, and art galleries.
Despite being in the middle of a busy area, the surrounding parks, including Shiba Park, provide some peaceful green space for a relaxing break. Getting to Tokyo Tower is easy via several train stations, including Onarimon and Akabanebashi Stations on the Toei Subway Line, or Kamiyacho on the Hibiya Line.
Tokyo Skytree rises up in Sumida Ward, a more traditional and laid-back area compared to the glitzier Minato Ward. Just a stone’s throw away is the famous Asakusa (浅草) district, home to Sensoji (浅草寺), the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo.
You can also stroll along the Sumida River, where you’ll find the Sumida Aquarium and plenty of river cruises offering unique views of the city. Skytree’s connectivity is excellent as well, with Oshiage Station and Tokyo Skytree Station making it easy to reach via the Tobu Skytree Line, Hanzomon Line, or Asakusa Line.
The Final Verdict – Which Tower is Right for You?
Look, I’m not changing my mind ok? I’m still Tokyo Tower team all the way. Having said that, choosing between Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree comes down to what kind of Tokyo experience you’re after.
Tokyo Tower is your spot if you appreciate nostalgia and vintage charm. Its retro vibe and central location make it ideal for those who want to soak in the history of Tokyo while enjoying an old-school aesthetic. With attractions like Zojoji Temple nearby and its warm orange glow at night, Tokyo Tower feels like a cozy, familiar friend in the ever-changing city. Perfect for those who enjoy iconic landmarks with a side of history and culture.
Tokyo Skytree, however, caters to the tech-savvy traveler who’s all about the future. Towering at 634 meters, it’s not just about the height—Skytree offers a hyper-modern experience, from its breathtaking views of the entire Kanto region to its dynamic light shows at night. With Tokyo Solamachi at its base, it’s the perfect spot for those who want to dive into modern entertainment, shopping, and dining, all while enjoying cutting-edge architecture. This tower is for those who thrive in the excitement of the present and future.
In the end, it’s not about picking the “better” tower—it’s about choosing the right experience for your Tokyo adventure. You can’t go wrong with either, so why not visit both and see Tokyo from two very different perspectives?
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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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