“Tokyo Tower” is a radio tower that has been loved by many people as a symbol and tourist attraction of Tokyo.
It is a place where you can enjoy the view from the observatory, climb the stairs, see the illuminations, participate in various events, and have plenty of places to have fun. Here are some sightseeing points that both adults and children can enjoy while learning.
Tokyo Tower is a radio tower located in Shiba koen, Minato-ku, Tokyo. Since its completion in 1958, it has been loved by many people as a symbol and tourist attraction of Tokyo. It is surrounded by many train lines, such as Akabanebashi Station on the Oedo Line, Kamiyacho Station on the Hibiya Line, and JR Hamamatsucho Station, and it is only a 5-15 minute walk from any of these stations. There is also a parking lot and bicycle parking lot, so you can access by car, motorcycle, or bicycle.
Tokyo Tower is a radio tower that was completed on December 23, 1958, but did you know that the name “Tokyo Tower” is actually a nickname? It is officially called “Nihon Dempa-to (Japan Radio Tower)”. In the post-war period of the Showa era (1926-1989), TV stations were opened one after another in Tokyo, starting with NHK. In the beginning, each TV station transmitted radio waves from its own radio tower, but as the demand for television increased, a comprehensive radio tower was needed to consolidate the radio towers of each station into one. The concept behind the construction of the Tokyo Tower was to create a symbol of post-war Japan that would surpass the Eiffel Tower. It is said that the height of 333 meters was chosen because it was necessary to transmit radio waves for calculation purposes. The journey to the completion of the Tokyo Tower was not an easy one, and it was a series of challenges. In those days, there were no computers or calculators. Despite the difficulty of constructing a steel tower over 300 meters high, the construction period was only a year and a half, as the opening date was decided before construction began. Under such circumstances, the design was done in just three months. Most of the construction work was done by hand by craftsmen, which is unthinkable nowadays. As a result, more than 400 workers at all times, totaling 220,000 people, were employed, according to the records. Through this process, the Tokyo Tower was finally completed. However, even after more than 50 years of construction, the structure is still capable of withstanding an earthquake of the level of the Great East Japan Earthquake, and I have to be amazed at the high level of technology and skill of the people involved in the construction at that time. Incidentally, it is said that the reason why the tower was built in its current location was because of the solidity of the ground. It is also true what they say, “Tokyo Tower is made of tanks.” the steel made from dismantled old U.S. military tanks is used mainly for the upper part of the main deck (the main observation deck). Tokyo Tower, which opened in December 1958, is still popular even now when it has reached its 60th birthday and Tokyo Sky Tree has been built. It still averages about 2.3 million visitors a year. Times have changed and roles also have changed, but Tokyo Tower will continue to be the “symbol of Tokyo.
Tokyo Tower will be lit up in two different ways: “Landmark Light” and “Infinity Diamond Veil,” a new illumination of Reiwa era. During events and promotions, special illumination is also provided, so you may be able to see Tokyo Tower in a different atmosphere while sightseeing.
There are two ways to get to the observation deck of Tokyo Tower: by taking the elevator or by going up the stairs by yourself. The stairs are only open on weekends and national holidays, but it is very refreshing and pleasant to go up the stairs with the view and the wind blowing. The 600 steps may sound like a long way, but it only takes about 15 minutes! How about using it to get rid of your daily lack of exercise?
When it comes to Tokyo Tower, the observation deck is where you can get the best view of Tokyo. There are two types of observatories that are indispensable when talking about Tokyo Tower. There is the 150-meter main deck where you can get a three-dimensional view of the Tokyo cityscape, and the 250-meter top deck where you can get a bird’s eye view of all of Tokyo. On a clear day, you can even see Mt. Fuji in the far distance, which will make you feel like you would get something lucky. The best time to visit is especially during the sunset. At this time of the day, you can enjoy the fantastic scenery from the daytime view to the sunset and the night view, as well as three different scenes slowly.
The “Top Deck Tour” is a hands-on observation tour that will give you a sense of the history, present and future of Tokyo and Tokyo Tower. The tour includes an advance reservation page in 13 languages, scenic information, drink service, photo cards, and most importantly, the warm hospitality of the attendants.
And you can feel the past of Tokyo and Tokyo Tower, look at the present of Tokyo in the elevator with large glass windows. Once you arrive at the Top Deck, the geometric mirrors and LED lighting will make you feel as if you are buried in the city of the future. Only those who participate in the Top Deck Tour will be able to experience the “Top Deck”.
This is the oldest remaining garden of a provincial lord. It is the typical style of the strolling garden with a pond at the center, and the layout of the land and stones is excellent. Although most of the buildings and trees were destroyed by fire in the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, the garden was given to the city of Tokyo in January of the following year, and was opened to the public in April of the same year after restoration and maintenance. In June 1979, the garden was designated as a national scenic beauty.
Shiba Park is one of the oldest parks in Japan, along with Ueno, Asakusa, Fukagawa, and Asukayama, and was designated as the first park in Japan by the Meiji government. Originally, it was a large park that included the grounds of Zojoji Temple, but after the war, the grounds of the temple were removed and the park became what it is today. You can see zelkova trees, ginkgo trees, and other large trees in this old park.
About 50% of the grounds of the Prince Park Tower Tokyo are covered with greenery. The Prince Shiba Park, where a variety of plants and flowers sprout throughout a year, is the hotel’s garden that is open to the public and can be used as a walking trail. The park is also a community space where people can gather and enjoy the beautiful four seasons of Japan. Please enjoy a relaxing stroll in the park.
How was the introduction of Tokyo Tower’s sightseeing points and the history it has walked through? Tokyo Tower can be enjoyed just by looking at it from the outside, but there are many impressions that can only be gained by actually visiting it. It’s a great place for both adults and children to learn and enjoy, so if you haven’t been there yet, please visit Tokyo Tower.
Contents
Access to Tokyo Tower
History of Tokyo Tower
Introducing Tokyo Skytree
The charm of Tokyo Tower
illumination
Stairs to the main observatory by yourself
Enjoy the view from the main deck
To a fantastic world! Projection Mapping
For a limited time, the projection mapping is available at the main observatory to create an even more fantastic atmosphere. Each season and event has a different theme, and it is always wonderful to see it at any time of the year. If you happen to visit Tokyo Tower at night, be sure to check it out.The “Tower Gallery” shows the history of Tokyo Tower
This is an area where the history of Tokyo Tower and the scenes of the city before and after it was built are displayed. If you know what it was like back then, you will feel nostalgic. In addition to the “Secret Library” with special tricks, drinks and photo services are also available.You can also enjoy a great variety of delicious food
Cafe La Tour is located inside the main observatory. It is a cafe where you can eat and drink while enjoying the view from the observatory, so it is great to use when you want to take a break. You can enjoy hotdogs made in the nature of Aso, coarsely ground sausages that have won gold medals consecutively at the world’s largest quality council in Germany, and tower soft serve ice cream with a tasty aftertaste. The food will taste even better if you enjoy it while enjoying the beautiful view.For a lifetime memory! Wedding Photos
In collaboration with “The Prince Park Tower Tokyo”, which is located near Tokyo Tower, a wedding photo shooting plan at Tokyo Tower is now available. This plan allows you to change into your wedding attire at “The Prince Park Tower Tokyo” and take commemorative photos against the impressive backdrop of the Tokyo Tower observation deck. The bright and open view of Tokyo that can only be seen from the observation deck is like a picture of your future together. This is sure to become a great memory that will last a lifetime.Top Deck Tour
Tourist spots around Tokyo Tower
There are many greenery and parks around Tokyo Tower, as well as many famous and historic sites. Why don’t you take a stroll before coming to Tokyo Tower?Former Shiba Rikyu Onshi Gardens
Introducing the history and characteristics of Japanese gardens, and recommended gardens