The Tokyo Tower is one of the most iconic symbols of the Japanese capital. Inaugurated in 1958, this monumental structure, standing at 333 meters tall, was the tallest in Tokyo for over 50 years, even surpassing its inspiration, the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris, by 13 meters. Today, the tower is not only an essential tourist spot but also plays an important role in Japanese broadcasting.
In this article, we will explore the history, curiosities, and attractions of the Tokyo Tower, as well as practical information to plan your visit.
Table of Contents
History of the Tokyo Tower
The Tokyo Tower was designed and built to symbolize Japan’s recovery after World War II and the rapid economic growth the country experienced in the 1950s. The choice to model its architecture on the Eiffel Tower was a way to highlight the country’s desire for modernization and development.
Although its construction was influenced by the Eiffel Tower, the Tokyo Tower is a unique structure that the Japanese have embraced with affection. Its original function was to serve as a transmission tower, but over the decades, it has become a significant tourist attraction. The tower was primarily built with recycled steel from U.S. military tanks, marking it as an example of sustainable reconstruction.
Since its inauguration, over 150 million people have visited the tower, and it continues to be one of Tokyo’s main tourist attractions.
My Visit to the Tokyo Tower
In September 2016, I had the chance to visit this beautiful tower along with Luiz Rafael and his group. I found it even more interesting than the Sky Tree because nearby there is a temple, a small grove, and several beautiful places to stroll and take photos.
In addition, the tower has a panoramic elevator, and it is possible to go up and down by stairs. We descended more than 600 steps and reached a floor filled with One Piece themed products.
Check out my video visiting the Tokyo Tower below:
Attractions at the Tokyo Tower
The “Tokyo Tower” offers several attractions for both tourists and locals. Let’s explore some of the main activities and spaces available in the tower.
FootTown: The Tower’s Entertainment Complex
At the base of the tower, you will find FootTown, a four-story building filled with attractions:
- First floor: An aquarium gallery, a reception hall, a restaurant with a capacity for 400 people, and several shops, including a FamilyMart convenience store.
- Second floor: Souvenir shops, restaurants, and an event area that frequently hosts themed exhibitions.
- Third and fourth floors: Other attractions, such as game rooms, exhibitions, and themed restaurants.
Observation Decks
The Tokyo Tower has two observation decks that offer panoramic views of Tokyo:
- Main Observatory (150 meters): This deck is ideal for those who want a broad view of the city. The location also features glass floor windows, where visitors can look directly down, providing an exciting experience.
- Special Observatory (250 meters): Situated higher up, this deck offers an even more spectacular view. On clear days, it is possible to see Mount Fuji to the south. It is an unmissable experience for those seeking a privileged view of the Japanese capital.
Themed Events and Special Lighting
In addition to traditional visits, the Tokyo Tower regularly hosts themed events. A recent example was the exhibition dedicated to One Piece, one of the most famous animes in Japan, attracting fans of all ages.
The tower’s lighting also frequently changes to mark special events and commemorative dates. Throughout the year, the tower is illuminated in different colors, becoming a visual landmark on the Tokyo skyline.
Curiosities About the Tokyo Tower
Broadcasting: Besides being a tourist spot, the Tokyo Tower still functions as a broadcasting tower.
Painting and maintenance: The Tokyo Tower requires a total of 28,000 liters of paint to be completely painted. Every five years, it undergoes a renovation that lasts about a year to be fully repainted.
Special lighting: The tower’s lighting scheme changes on special occasions. Commemorative events and important dates are marked by unique light arrangements.
Noppon mascots: The tower has two mascots named Noppon, two brothers – one wearing a blue overall and the other red.
Glass floor: The Main Observatory has an area with a glass floor, allowing visitors to look directly down.
Mortgage of the tower: In 2000, the tower was mortgaged for 10 billion yen.
Prices and Visiting Information
The prices to access the observation decks vary depending on the time, but the approximate values are:
- ¥ 1200 for the Main Observatory (150 meters).
- ¥ 2800 for the Special Observatory (250 meters).
- ¥ 3000 for Both Decks.
These values may change, so it is recommended to check the official tower website for the most up-to-date information.
Conclusion
The Tokyo Tower is much more than a broadcasting tower. It is a symbol of Japan’s history, culture, and progress. Whether to admire the architecture, enjoy the panoramic views, or explore the attractions of FootTown, visiting the Tokyo Tower is an essential experience for anyone wanting to get to know Tokyo.
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