Tokyo Skytree vs Tokyo Tower: Which one’s right for you?

Tokyo has not one, but two sky-high landmarks. While one is a sleek and futuristic giant, the other is a nostalgic red-and-white dream. Both offer unbeatable views, but which one should you visit? Let’s break it down!

Overview snapshot

FeaturesTokyo SkytreeTokyo Tower

Height

634m

333m

Observation decks

2 (Tembo Deck at 350m & Tembo Galleria at 450m)

2 (Main Deck at 150m & Top Deck at 250m)

Style

Futuristic & glassy

Retro & Eiffel-inspired

Built in

2012

1958

Location

Sumida

Minato

Ticket price (Adult)

​From ¥2,100

​From ¥1,500

Which tower matches your style?

Tokyo Skytree

Modern & futuristic

Standing 634m tall, Japan’s tallest tower impresses with futuristic observation decks, immersive exhibits, and sweeping views of the Tokyo skyline. The attached Sumida Aquarium and Solamachi mall make it a full-day experience.

Perfect if you want:

  • Japan’s highest observation deck (450m!)
  • Mount Fuji views on clear mornings
  • Sleek architecture and panoramic elevators
  • A whole day out with minimal planning, with fun things to do nearby
Book tickets here

Tokyo Tower

Timeless & iconic

The 333m red-and-white symbol of Tokyo, built in 1958, offers classic skyline views and old-school charm. Its nostalgic atmosphere glows at night, perfect for romantic visits or a quieter, retro Tokyo moment.

Perfect if you want:

  • Classic skyline photos with retro Tokyo charm
  • A romantic sunset or night-time glow
  • Shorter queues and simpler access
  • Historic vibes near Zojoji Temple and Shiba Park
Book tickets here

Tokyo Skytree vs Tokyo Tower: Location & timings

Tokyo Skytree towering over cityscape with clear blue sky in Tokyo, Japan.

Tokyo Skytree location: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan | Find on Maps

Tokyo Skytree opening hours: 10am to 10pm (Mon-Fri) & 9am to 10pm (Sat, Sun & holidays); last admission at  9pm

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Tokyo Skytree is on weekday mornings or weeknights, especially from Tuesday to Thursday. You'll dodge the weekend rush and school holiday crowds. Aim for early mornings for a shot at spotting Mount Fuji, or go after 6pm for glittering night views. For clearer skies, visit in winter (Dec to Feb), while spring and autumn offer mild weather and gorgeous cityscapes.

Tokyo Tower silhouetted against a vibrant sunset sky in Tokyo.

Tokyo Tower location: 4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan | Find on Maps

Tokyo Tower opening hours: 9am to 11pm; last admission at 10:30pm (Main Deck) & 9am to 10:45pm; final tour from 10pm to 10:15pm (Top Deck)

Best time to visit: Tokyo Tower is best visited on weekday afternoons or weeknights, ideally from Monday to Thursday. These days are quieter, making the experience more relaxed. For dreamy sunsets and a romantic city glow, head up just before dusk. The clearest views are in winter (Dec to Feb), while spring and autumn bring comfortable weather and beautiful seasonal colors across Shiba Park and the surrounding cityscape.

Views from the top: Tokyo like you’ve never seen it

View from the Tembo deck

Tokyo Skytree

With clouds drifting below and the city shrinking into a miniature, it’s a futuristic dreamscape above the noise.

Tokyo Tower illuminated against the night sky in Tokyo, Japan.
Tokyo Skytree with Mount Fuji in the background on a clear day.
Tokyo Tower main deck view with cityscape and Tokyo Subway 24-hour ticket.
View from Tokyo Skytree

Frequently asked questions about Tokyo Skytree vs Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower stands at 333 m with observation decks at 150 m and ~250 m, while Tokyo Skytree rises to 634 m, featuring decks at 350 m (Tembo Deck) and 450 m (Tembo Galleria).