Tokyo Tower is a prominent landmark in Japan that is recognized worldwide.
This iconic structure, which stands at 333 meters, has been a symbol of Tokyo and its rich cultural history for decades.
In this article, we will explore the fascinating history and charms of Tokyo Tower.
History of Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower was constructed in 1958, during a period when Japan was experiencing rapid economic growth and modernization.
The tower was designed by Mr. Tachu Naito, who was inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
The tower was built to serve as a broadcast antenna for television and radio signals, but it immediately became one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tokyo.
Tokyo Tower was built in just over a year, using more than 4,000 tons of steel, and it was the tallest tower in the world at the time of its construction.
Charms of Tokyo Tower
More than just a modern tourist attraction, Tokyo Tower also has important historical value.
Built at a time when Japan was recovering from World War II, the Tokyo Tower represents the country’s resilience and determination to overcome adversity.
Today, the panoramic view of Tokyo from the observation deck and the nighttime illumination are among the tower’s attractions.
Tokyo Tower has two observation decks, one at 150 m and the other at 250 m. On a clear day, visitors can enjoy a spectacular view as far as Mt. Fuji.
The night view from the observatory is wonderful, but the night illumination, in which Tokyo Tower itself is illuminated in various colors and patterns according to the season and events, is also attractive, creating a romantic atmosphere around the tower and attracting many people to take pictures.
Tokyo Tower has become an iconic symbol of Tokyo, representing the city’s vibrant culture and history, and is now a must-visit destination for tourists from around the world.
Every Monday is dress-up day
Do you know that every Monday night, Tokyo Tower is dressed up in a different color scheme?
There are basically 14 types of lights on Tokyo Tower which are 2 types of “Landmark Lights” and 12 types of “Infinity Diamond Veil“.
Landmark Lights
This is the standard light-up that features 180 lights to illuminate Tokyo Tower.
There are two versions of a summer version and a winter version.
The summer version uses silver lights called “metal halide lamps” and features a cool image with a white base, and is changed to the summer type light-up from the evening of “Tanabata” on 7th July every year.
In winter, warm orange lights called “high-pressure sodium lamps” are used, and the lighting will be changed to winter-type lighting from the night of early October every year.
Infinity Diamond Veil
The “Infinity Diamond Veil” started lighting up in October 2019 as a new light for a new era “Reiwa”.
Each of the 268 LED lights installed on 17 levels changes its light in a variety of ways, creating an infinite pattern of light colors.
It features quiet, poetic movement and beautiful light colors implied.
Every Monday night, the lights shine in 12 colors designated for each month.
| 月 | Month | 色 | Color |
| 1月 | January | 黄金色 | Reborn Yellow |
| 2月 | February | 紅梅色 | Lovely Red |
| 3月 | March | 桜色 | Cherry Pink |
| 4月 | April | 新緑色 | Fresh Green |
| 5月 | May | 空色 | Sky Blue |
| 6月 | Jun | 藤色 | Wisteria Violet |
| 7月 | July | 海色 | Sea Blue |
| 8月 | August | 山色 | Mountain Green |
| 9月 | September | 秋草色 | Autumn Purple |
| 10月 | Octorber | 茜色 | Sunset Orange |
| 11月 | November | 紅葉色 | Maple Red |
| 12月 | December | 常盤色 | Forever Green |
Don’t miss it, as it runs for a short time from sunset to 10:00 p.m. or from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Special lighting is also available on special occasions.
Most recently, on March 22, the night of the WBC championship victory, the lights were also illuminated with the words, “Celebrate Samurai Japan! World Baseball Classic“, the four colors of the WBC logo were lit up in the infinity diamond veil, which changes slowly like a windmill turning.
Exercise at Tokyo Tower!
This is a healthy, open-air Tokyo Tower experience recommended for those who are unable to get enough exercise.
This is an “open-air staircase walk” that takes about 12 to 13 minutes to ascend the 600 steps that lead up to the 150-meter-high main deck, while enjoying a view of the Tokyo skyline and the pleasant breeze.
Even a kindergartener can ascend the stairs in about 15 minutes.
Normally available only on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, it is now open every day.
It is also recommended at night. The experience of walking up the illuminated Tokyo Tower is very magical and precious.
Open-air outer staircase (ascending staircase) 9:00~16:00
Open-air outer staircase (descending staircase) 9:00~21:00*
*The staircase may close at 19:00 when the “Electricity Supply and Demand Stress Alert” is issued.
Visitors who complete the open-air outer staircase will receive a “Ascending Staircase Certificate,” which is not for sale.
There are 10 different designs of the certificate.
Example: 10 different designs of the certificate
Fee: Normal observation fee is required.
Note:
- Transfer to the elevator is not allowed on the external stairs. (Elevators can be used on the way back from the Main Deck)
- The opening hours are subject to change without notice.
- Please drink plenty of water, take breaks as needed, and ascend at your own pace.
- The outer staircase for ascending and for descending are on separate routes.
Please try them for a change of pace!
Seasonal Projection Mapping
The “TOKYO TOWER CITY LIGHT FANTASIA” projection mapping is now being held, with the beautiful night view from the Main Deck as a backdrop, projected elegantly and magnificently onto the window surfaces.
This story-based, spring-like mapping allows visitors to enjoy flowers, plants, and trees that are budding over the winter, as well as cherry blossoms in full bloom against the nightscape, giving them a sense of the Japanese four seasons without leaving the comfort of their rooms.
The spring theme is “Spring Concerto” and will be held on the 2nd floor of the Main Deck from Saturday, March 18 to Sunday, May 7.
Mystery solving for adults “Tokyo Tower and 45-second time travel
Takarash Black Label, a company that plans, produces, and operates experience-based content “mystery solving events,” started its latest “Tokyo Tower and 45 Seconds of Time Travel” as a “mystery solving for adults” at Tokyo Tower since last December.
Story (no spoilers)
Tokyo Tower has been illuminating the city of Tokyo for 65 years.
The foot-town at its foot has been busier than usual.
This is because an event to view the “Emerald Moon,” the first rare lunar eclipse in 65 years, is taking place today.
In the midst of all this, there was a woman working with a slightly nervous look on her face.
Her name is Sakura.
As an attendant, she is entrusted with guiding visitors to the lunar eclipse event.
Tonight’s temperature is a comfortable 25°C and humidity is 30%. You will be able to view the lunar eclipse in comfort!
As I was finishing my announcement to the museum, I found a round object on the floor.
I wondered, “Is it a lost and found? Whose is it?”
When she threw it away, she found it was a name badge with the name “Kaede” written on it.
Suddenly, a voice started to talk in Sakura’s mind.
“Lunar eclipse eve…nt must suc…….ceed!”
“What in the world is this? Why is there a stranger’s voice in my mind?”
This is a story of a slightly mysterious adventure that connects Reiwa and Showa era.
How to join the mystery solving
The time required is 3 hours, and you can participate right away, even if you are alone on the day of the event.
- Purchase a participation kit
10 a.m ~ 6 p.m, purchase at the ticket counter on the 1st floor of Tokyo Tower, 3,500 yen (tax included) - Solve the mystery
Solve the mystery as you read the story - Explore Tokyo Tower
Go to the actual location based on the clues found by solving the mystery - Report your findings on the web
Report your findings when you find the final answer, and go to the end of the story.
How about a different experience at Tokyo Tower?
Conclusion
How did you like this article?
Tokyo Tower is a remarkable structure that has been an integral part of Japan’s cultural history for over six decades.
Its distinctive design, breathtaking views, and historical significance make it a unique and captivating tourist attraction.
Whether you are interested in Japan’s modern technology, cultural traditions, or simply enjoying a panoramic view of the city, Tokyo Tower is one of definitely worth visiting.
Why not take a trip to Tokyo Tower this spring?
