Tokyo Skytree／Asakusa

The Best spots and facilities in Tokyo Skytree

TOKYO SKYTREE, which celebrated its fifth anniversary in May 2017, is the world\'s tallest tower (634m) according to the Guinness Book of World Records. There are panoramic views of the Kanto area from the 350m-high TEMBO DECK and the 450m-high TEMBO GALLERIA, and on a clear day, even Mt. Fuji can be seen. It is a great spot from which to enjoy vast and fantastic views. At the foot of the tower, there are commercial facilities like TOKYO Solamachi, which has more than 300 shops and restaurants. The tower is lit up at night, creating a lovely, romantic atmosphere, with lights that change with the season.

The tower is close to Asakusa and is easily accessible from Tokyo Skytree Station on the Tobu Skytree Line, which is the closest train station, although Oshiage Station is also convenient if you are using the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, the Keikyu Line/Toei Asakusa Line, or the Keisei Narita Sky Access line. Tokyo Skytree is only about a 5-10 minute walk from either of these two stations.

TEMBO DECK / TEMBO GALLERIA

Each spot and facility will be introduced in more detail. First up is the TEMBO DECK – a 360-degree deck surrounded with large windows that are more than 5m high. This deck is designed to give a view that encompasses the bottom of the tower, all the way out to about 70km. Next is the TEMBO GALLERIA, which is 100m further up from TEMBO DECK. It is a tube-shaped glass corridor in which you will feel as if you are taking a walk in the air.

Sample Fees:
TEMBO DECK same-day ticket:
Adult (18 and over): 2,060 JPY, Young adult (12 - 17): 1,540 JPY, Child (6 - 11): 930 JPY, Toddler (4 - 5): 620 JPY
TEMBO GALLERIA same-day ticket: Adult (18 and over): 1,030 JPY, Young adult
(12 - 17): 820 JPY, Child (6 - 11): 510 JPY, Toddler (4 - 5): 310 JPY

Sumida Aquarium

Next up is Sumida Aquarium, which is on the fifth and sixth floors of TOKYO SKYTREE TOWN. It is popular for its giant tank that recreates the ocean around Ogasawara Islands, which is on UNESCO\'s World Heritage List. It is also popular for the penguins that swim in one of Japan\'s largest indoor open-pool tanks, and the tranquil jellyfish tank. It is open till 9:00 pm, so if you\'re lucky, you may be able to see the penguins sleeping.

Admission fee:
Adult: 2,050 JPY, High school student: 1,500 JPY, Elementary school & junior high school student: 1,000 JPY, Toddler (3 years old or older): 600 JPY

KONICA MINOLTA Planetarium Tenku in TOKYO SKYTREE TOWN

Next on the list is a popular planetarium that reopened after renovations in November 2017. Its concept is "magic blue". It uses the latest 3D audio effects, video projection systems, and premium seats, so that you can thoroughly enjoy the beautiful starry skies, video, and music.

Sample rates:
Planetarium show general seating: Adult (junior high school age and older): 1,500 JPY, Child (4 years old and older): 900 JPY

Solamachi Shotengai Shopping District

Finally, there’s the Solamachi Shotengai Shopping District on the first floor of the East Yard of the commercial facility, Tokyo Solamachi. There are approximately 35 stores selling food and miscellaneous items, as well as cafes, along a corridor that is about 120m long. There are many items, such as Japanese-style sweets, hand towels, and uniquely Japanese items, that are perfect as souvenirs.