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Architecture And Design Of Tokyo Skytree

If you love culture, history and breathtaking views, Tokyo Skytree is a must-visit. The iconic tower that dominates the skyline of Tokyo was inaugurated on May 22, 2012, and is a remarkable engineering marvel. Standing at a height of 634 meters, it is the tallest tower in Japan and one of the tallest structures in the world.

Architecture & Design of Tokyo Skytree | Quick Overview

Official Name: Tokyo Skytree

Attraction Type: Broadcasting and Observation Tower

Location: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan

Opening Date: May 22, 2012

Observation Decks:

  • Tembo Deck: Located at 350 meters
  • Tembo Galleria: Located at 450 meters

Architectural Style: Neo-futuristic design

Main Architects: Nikken Sekkei, with contributions from architect Tadao Ando and sculptor Kiichi Sumikawa

Architectural Highlights of Tokyo Skytree

If you are visiting Tokyo Skytree, here are a few architectural highlights that’ll pique your interest:

  • Tokyo Skytree's architectural design masterfully blends neo-futuristic elements with traditional Japanese aesthetics. The tower's base features a triangular footprint that transitions into a circular cross-section as it ascends, embodying a subtle and refined Asian aesthetic. 
  • The tower's elevators are among the fastest large-capacity elevators in Japan, reaching speeds of up to 600 meters per minute. These elevators transport visitors from the ground to the Tembo Deck, located at 350 meters, in about 50 seconds. 
  • To ensure stability against earthquakes and strong winds, Tokyo Skytree incorporates advanced seismic control technology inspired by traditional Japanese architecture. A central steel-reinforced concrete column, reminiscent of the 'shinbashira' found in ancient pagodas, acts as a stationary pendulum to counteract swaying during seismic events.
Tokyo Skytree Architecture

If you are visiting Tokyo Skytree, here are a few architectural highlights that’ll pique your interest:

  • The Tower's sleek neofuturistic style is a perfect example of modern architecture in Tokyo. The unique triangular-shaped design captures a subtle and refined Asian aesthetic.
  • The exterior of the tower is adorned with two illuminated panels that display images of cherry blossoms in bloom during the spring season.
  • The tower's elevators use a groundbreaking system that employs a state-of-the-art motor, the world's first double-decker, and a rope-less (magnetic) design, making it the fastest lifted tower on earth, transporting passengers from the first floor to the observation decks in just fifty seconds.
  • Tokyo Skytree also makes use of seismic control technology to withstand earthquakes and strong winds.
Plan Your Visit to Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree Architectural Style

The architectural style of Tokyo Skytree is modern and futuristic, with a design inspired by traditional Japanese structures such as pagodas and the ‘sorakazari’ decorative element used in Japanese shrines and temples. The tower's sleek, tapering form and steel lattice structure are also reminiscent of Tokyo's industrial past. The tower is also fitted with sophisticated lighting systems that illuminate the tower in various colours, creating a dazzling night-time display appreciated by the locals and tourists alike.

Structure Of Tokyo Skytree

The construction of Tokyo Skytree employed innovative techniques and high-quality materials, enhancing the tower's stability and longevity. Its structural frame is made of tempered, rust-resistant steel, ensuring durability over time. The tower is engineered to withstand strong winds, a frequent challenge in Tokyo. Its seismic-proof design includes a central shaft made of reinforced concrete, connected to the outer structure for the first 125 meters. Between 125 and 375 meters, the shaft is attached to the frame using oil dampers, which act as cushions to absorb seismic energy and reduce the impact of earthquakes.

Tokyo Skytree Architecture

The construction of Tokyo Skytree used innovative techniques and high-quality materials, which significantly influenced the tower's stability and durability. The tower's structural frame is made of tempered steel, which is rust-resistant and incredibly durable, ensuring its longevity. The interior of the tower is designed to withstand strong winds that upturn the tower, a common natural occurrence in Tokyo. Tokyo Skytree has also been designed to withstand earthquakes with its seismic proofing features. The tower's central shaft is made of reinforced concrete and the main internal pillar is attached to the outer tower structure for the first 125 meters above ground. The pillar is then attached to the tower frame until 375 meters using oil dampers, which act as cushions during an earthquake.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tokyo Skytree Architecture

What is Tokyo Skytree’s architectural style?

Tokyo Skytree’s architectural design features a sleek, modern neofuturistic style.

What was Tokyo Skytree’s design inspired by?

Tokyo Skytree's design was inspired by the traditional Japanese pagoda, characterized by multiple levels and gently curved lines.

When was Tokyo Skytree built?

Tokyo Skytree's construction began in 2008 and was completed four years later, in 2012.

What's inside Tokyo Skytree?

Tokyo Skytree contains shopping centers, restaurants, a planetarium, and two observation decks - Tembo Deck at 350 m and Tembo Galleria at 450 m.

What is on the exterior of Tokyo Skytree?

The exterior of Tokyo Skytree is adorned with two illuminated panels that display images of cherry blossoms in bloom during springtime.

How tall is Tokyo Skytree?

Tokyo Skytree stands at an impressive height of 634 meters, making it the tallest tower in Japan and one of the tallest structures in the world.

What are Tokyo Skytree’s dimensions?

Tokyo Skytree's triangular-shaped cross-section measures 38 meters at its base, and tapers to 29 meters at the top of the tower.

What is Tokyo Skytree made of?

Tokyo Skytree is primarily made of steel, which provides strength and durability to withstand natural disasters such as earthquakes.

Is Tokyo Skytree part of any sub-attraction?

No, Tokyo Skytree is not part of any sub-attraction.

Where can I buy tickets to Tokyo Skytree?

Yes, you can purchase tickets to Tokyo Skytree online ​here. You can also purchase tickets offline at the observatory ticket shop in the Solamachi shopping complex, which is located at the base of the tower.

Who designed Tokyo Skytree?

Tokyo Skytree was designed by Nikken Sekkei, a Japanese architectural firm known for its innovative and earthquake-resistant designs.

How long did it take to build Tokyo Skytree?

Construction of Tokyo Skytree took four years, from July 2008 to February 2012.

What earthquake-proof technology does Tokyo Skytree use?

Tokyo Skytree incorporates a central reinforced concrete pillar, which is structurally independent of the main tower frame. Oil dampers installed between the pillar and the frame absorb seismic energy, reducing earthquake vibrations by up to 50%.

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