A Complete Guide to Purchasing Tokyo Skytree Tickets
Visiting the Tokyo Skytree is one of those bucket-list moments for many travelers in Tokyo. At 634 meters tall it’s the tallest tower in Japan, and offers spectacular views of the city from its observation decks. But with so many ticket types, time slots, options to upgrade, and the question of when to go. It can feel a little confusing if you don’t plan ahead. Having visited myself and done the research, I wanted to share a detailed walkthrough of how to buy and use tickets for Tokyo Skytree, so your visit is smooth, memorable and the value is maximised.
In this guide we’ll cover:
- Overview of the Observation Decks
- Ticket Types and Pricing
- How to Buy Your Ticket: Step-by-Step
- Best Time to Buy / Visit
- Tips for Maximising Value
- What to Expect On Arrival
- Potential Drawbacks / Things to Be Aware Of
- After Your Visit: Extras and Nearby Attractions
Let’s climb up (metaphorically and literally) and make your visit count.
Overview of the Observation Decks
When you visit Tokyo Skytree, there are two main observation decks you’ll want to know about.
Tembo Deck (350 m)
The first major deck is the Tembo Deck at around 350 meters above ground. According to the official floor guide it is:
“Rising 350 meters above the ground … covered in huge 5-meter-high glass for a 360‐degree panoramic view… you can see from the base of SKYTREE up to 70 kilometres away in the distance.”
This is a great start for your visit, offering impressive views of Tokyo’s skyline, the winding Sumida River, and on a clear day, even distant mountains.
You can easily book advance Skytree observation deck tickets on Viator to skip lines and secure your ideal time slot.
Tembo Galleria (450 m)
Then, if you choose to go further, there is the Tembo Galleria at approximately 450 meters. The floor guide explains it as:
“From floor 445 to floor 450, the highest floor, via a glass tube. … At the top of the spiral ramp is a more conventional observation deck floor with lounging areas and tall windows.”
This is an extra experience: walking up the sloped glass-tube ramp, feeling the height, getting more expansive views. For many visitors the Tembo Deck may feel more than sufficient, but if you’re looking for a premium experience, the Galleria is the way to go.
Ticket Types and Pricing
Understanding ticket types and pricing is crucial, because it affects budget, choice and your mood on arrival. Here are the main ticket types for Tokyo Skytree.
Basic Ticket Types
Advance Tickets (online, pre-booked)
For example, the official site lists for adults (18yrs+) on weekdays:
- Tembo Deck (350 m) advance ticket: ¥2,100.
- Combo Ticket (Tembo Deck + Tembo Galleria): ¥3,100 for adults on weekdays.
If you prefer to have everything arranged before arriving in Tokyo, you can also book Tokyo Skytree combo tickets with skip-the-line access. It’s a reliable way to lock in your time and price.
Same-day Tickets (on arrival at ticket counter)
These cost a little more. From the official site:
- Tembo Deck same-day (adult, weekdays): ¥2,400.
- Combo (Deck + Galleria) same-day adult: ¥3,500 weekdays.
Additional Options & Packs
There are special experience tickets such as: Morning view, Night view, yoga events etc.
There are pack deals like the “SKYTREE ENJOY PACK” which bundle entry along with another attraction (aquarium, planetarium, subway pass, etc).
My takeaway
In plain terms: if you book ahead you’ll save money and reduce risk of being sold out or waiting. If you show up on the day, you can still buy a ticket, but you’ll likely pay a bit more and possibly wait. If you want the full experience (both decks) be ready to pay the combo price.
How to Buy Your Ticket: Step-by-Step
Here’s a practical walkthrough of how I recommend buying your ticket especially if you’re planning ahead.
Step 1: Decide date and deck(s)
Pick the date you’ll visit Tokyo Skytree. Decide whether you’ll just go for the Tembo Deck (350 m) or also upgrade to the Tembo Galleria (450 m). Think about your schedule, budget, and how much time you want to spend.
Step 2: Buy in advance online (strongly recommended)
You can book directly through the official Skytree website or use trusted travel platforms such as Viator to pay in your preferred currency, often with flexible cancellation.
Online advance ticket info:
- Book from 30 days ahead up to the night before your visit.
- Use a credit card to pay (for the advance online ticket).
- After booking you will receive a voucher or e-ticket that you exchange at ticket counter when you arrive.
Step 3: On arrival at the Skytree
- Head to the ticket counter on the 4th floor of Tokyo Skytree.
- Exchange your voucher for the admission ticket (if you booked online).
- If you have not booked, you can buy a same-day ticket there (subject to availability).
- Then use the “Tembo Shuttle” elevator up to the observation deck.
Step 4: Upgrade (if desired)
If you initially buy only the 350 m deck ticket and later decide you want to go to the 450 m Galleria, check with staff if an upgrade option is available. (Many sources say you can escalate to combo at the deck counter).
Step 5: Enter and enjoy
Follow signage, take the elevator up, enjoy the view, take photo breaks, maybe visit the café or glass floor (on 350 m deck), then eventually descend.
Remember: you cannot re-enter after you leave. So plan to finish any shopping or meals after you descend.
Bonus tip: Combine with other experiences
If you’re up for more, consider bundled tickets such as the “Enjoy Pack” which includes the Skytree plus another attraction (Sumida aquarium, planetarium, subway pass) for value.
Best Time to Buy / Visit
Timing matters. Both for buying your ticket and visiting the tower itself. Here are things I learned that changed how I plan.
When to buy
- Book as early as you can, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends. Advance tickets not only save money but also guarantee your slot.
- If you wait until the day, there is risk of reduced availability, and you’ll likely pay more. Reviewers mention queues at ticket counters.
- Also check the pricing calendar / holiday surcharges – the official site warns that ticket prices may vary depending on the day.
Booking early gives you more flexibility and better pricing. If you haven’t finalized your Tokyo accommodation yet, look for hotels close to the Skytree area for convenience.
Check out hotels near Tokyo Skytree to find stays with great views or easy subway access.
When to visit (time of day / season)
From personal experience and reading various sources:
- Visiting early in the morning (just after opening) can reduce crowd levels and give you clearer skies.
- Visiting around sunset is magical: you’ll catch daylight, golden hour, and city lights emerging.
- Weekdays are typically less crowded than weekends or holidays.
- Weather matters: a clear day offers the best vistas (yes, you might even spot Mount Fuji in the distance from the decks).
My suggestion
For my recent visit I aimed for a weekday mid-afternoon slot, then stayed until sunset. That way I got good daylight views and transitions into night views. If your schedule allows, aim for that. If not, book the time you can and enjoy it – the Skytree experience is still very special.
Tips for Maximising Value
Since you’re investing in a premium experience, let’s make sure you extract the best value. Here are some tips from my personal observations and gathered research:
- Book advance tickets online — you’ll save money and skip part of the queue.
- Choose the right deck for you — if you are tight on budget or time, the Tembo Deck (350 m) will deliver big. Going to the Galleria adds extra height and novelty but also cost and possibly crowd.
- Go at the ideal time — early morning or just before sunset to get great lighting and perhaps fewer people.
- Bundle with other attractions — if you plan to visit nearby spots (such as the aquarium in Skytree Town), the “Enjoy Pack” deals may yield savings.
- Be weather aware — check the forecast; avoid days with heavy fog or rain if you want the best views.
- Use the glass floor for fun photos — on the Tembo Deck there is a glass-floor section (floor 340) where you can look straight down to the street below. A cool photo opportunity.
- Visit the café or restaurant — if you have some budget spare, consider grabbing a drink or snack at the deck level (for the view). Adds a little luxury.
- Allow buffer time — time to queue, time to ascend, time to soak in the view, possibly shop on the way down. Don’t rush.
- Mind the no re-entry rule — once you leave the observation decks you cannot go back in with the same ticket. Good to plan shopping or dining after your descent rather than before.
- Consider whether the Galleria is worth it for you — Some travellers feel the extra 100 m is less dramatic than expected and the crowd may offset the benefit. For example:
“The view from the 450 m deck wasn’t worth the extra money or queue for us.”
But for many, the Galleria is worth it, especially if you want that sense of “walking in the sky”.
After Your Visit: Extras and Nearby Attractions
Your ticket grants you access to the observation decks, but the experience around the tower is also rich. Here are extras and nearby attractions you’ll want to know about.
Skytree Town
At the base of Tokyo Skytree you’ll find the Tokyo Skytree Town complex: a mix of shopping, dining, entertainment and theme. According to various sources:
“A large shopping complex with an aquarium is located at its base.”
You’ll find restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops, and the opportunity to relax after your high-altitude experience.
Aquarium & Planetarium
- The “Enjoy Pack” deals referenced earlier may include entry to the Sumida Aquarium.
- There is also the planetarium “TENKU”. These are great for families or if you still have energy after your Skytree visit.
If you’re continuing your Tokyo sightseeing, consider a Tokyo River Cruise or Asakusa cultural walking tour. These tours often start near Skytree and are a relaxing way to continue your day.
Or stay nearby for another night. Browse hotels near Asakusa and Skytree for a convenient base to explore the neighborhood.
The Neighbourhood: Asakusa & Sumida
Tokyo Skytree is in Sumida Ward, not far from the historic neighbourhood of Asakusa. If you left extra time, you could explore:
- The famous Senso‑ji Temple in Asakusa
- Take a stroll along the Sumida River
- Visit the nearby shopping streets, traditional craft stores
If you coordinate your visit with these, your trip becomes more than just “go to the tower, look down, leave”.
Conclusion
Visiting the Tokyo Skytree can be a highlight of your trip to Tokyo, if well-planned. Let’s recap the key takeaway points:
- Why buy in advance: Booking ahead gives you cost savings, confirmed slot, less stress.
- Choose the right ticket type: Decide whether the Tembo Deck (350 m) is sufficient or if you want the full combo with the Tembo Galleria (450 m).
- Maximise your experience: Go at an optimal time, bundle when possible, allow time, and pick a good vantage point.
- Be aware of the trade-offs: Cost, queues, weather, photography limitations.
- Make your visit broader than just going up the tower: explore the town, nearby attractions, take the time to savour the moment.
Book your Tokyo Skytree tickets in advance on Viator for flexible options and skip-the-line convenience.
Find nearby hotels to stay close to the action.
I encourage you to plan ahead, align your visit with your schedule and budget, and prepare for the possibility of weather or crowds. If you do, your visit will be far more relaxed and memorable.
If you found this post helpful, I’d love it if you could share your experience or ask any questions in the comments below. Maybe you’ll discover something I didn’t cover and we can build on it together.
