Opened in May 2012, Tokyo Skytree Town is a massive urban “city within a city” that has redefined the skyline of East Tokyo. Located in the Oshiage district, the complex serves as a futuristic counterpoint to the traditional temples of nearby Asakusa. The centerpiece is the Tokyo Skytree—the tallest structure in Japan and the second tallest in the world—surrounded by a sprawling ecosystem of retail, marine life, and celestial entertainment.
Tokyo Skytree: The 634-Meter Icon
At a staggering 634 meters, the Tokyo Skytree is not just a broadcasting tower; it is a masterclass in modern engineering. The height was chosen for its cultural wordplay: the numbers 6 (Mu), 3 (sa), and 4 (shi) spell out “Musashi,” the ancient name of the region. Structurally, the tower utilizes a Shinbashira (center column) design inspired by traditional Japanese five-story pagodas, allowing the core to move independently from the outer frame during an earthquake.
Visitors can ascend to two observation decks. The Tembo Deck (350m) offers 360-degree views and features glass flooring for the brave, while the Tembo Galleria (450m) consists of a sloping glass tube that allows guests to “walk in the sky” as they reach the highest accessible point of the tower. At night, the tower is illuminated in rotating themes—most commonly Iki (sky blue) and Miyabi (elegant purple)—reflecting traditional Edo aesthetics.
Tokyo Solamachi: A Retail Adventure
Encircling the base of the tower is Tokyo Solamachi, a massive shopping and dining complex with over 300 stores. It is one of the best locations in the city for travelers to find high-quality Japanese goods. The 4th floor, known as the “Japan Souvenir” area, features artisanal crafts, specialized stationery, and traditional snacks. Popular attractions within Solamachi include:
- Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo: A massive flagship store featuring exclusive Skytree-themed merchandise and interactive displays.
- Harry Potter & Ghibli Specialty Shops: Several floors are dedicated to Japan’s beloved pop-culture icons, making it a hub for fans of anime and cinema.
- Solamachi Dining (30th & 31st Floors): Known as “Skytree View,” these floors offer fine dining with unobstructed views of the tower’s structure and the Tokyo metropolis.
Sumida Aquarium and Planetarium “Tenku”
Beyond shopping, the Town houses the Sumida Aquarium, a beautifully designed urban facility. Its centerpiece is a massive open-pool tank holding dozens of penguins and fur seals, allowing visitors to see the animals from multiple angles. The aquarium is also famous for its “Edorium” jellyfish exhibit, which uses mirrors and artistic lighting to create a dreamlike, immersive environment.
Adjacent to the aquarium is the Konica Minolta Planetarium “Tenku.” This high-tech theater uses specialized scents and high-resolution projection mapping to take visitors on a journey through the stars. It frequently collaborates with Japanese artists and musicians to provide a uniquely sensory “astronomical” experience.
Connectivity: The Sumida River Walk
One of the best ways to experience Tokyo Skytree Town is to pair it with a visit to Asakusa. Following the opening of the Sumida Mizumachi (a shopping arcade under the railway bridge) and the Sumida River Walk pedestrian bridge, you can now walk between the two districts in about 15 minutes. This riverside stroll offers some of the best photography angles of the tower reflected in the water of the Sumida River.
Logistics and Access
Tokyo Skytree Town is served by two main stations that provide direct access into the basement levels of the complex. If you are visiting on a weekend, it is highly recommended to book your Skytree tickets online in advance to skip the potentially long queues at the ticket counter.
| Station | Line(s) | Proximity |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo Skytree Station | Tobu Skytree Line | Direct Access |
| Oshiage Station | Hanzomon, Asakusa, Keisei Lines | Direct Access |
| Asakusa Station | Ginza Line, JR | 15-minute walk via River Walk |
