Detailed explanation of the history and overview of Tokyo Tower

 

　table of contents

1. Overview of Tokyo Tower
2. History of Tokyo Tower
3. View spots of Tokyo Tower
4. Spots around Tokyo Tower
   

Introduction

Tokyo Tower is an iconic landmark representing Japan's capital, Tokyo. Completed in 1958, it is 333 meters high, making it taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

It was built for the purpose of transmitting television and radio waves, but now it is also a popular tourist attraction. This article provides a detailed overview of Tokyo Tower, its history, viewing spots, and surrounding spots.

1. Overview of Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower is an iconic Japanese landmark located in Shiba Park, Minato Ward, Tokyo. At 333 meters (1,092 feet) high, it is the world's tallest free-standing steel tower and is 13 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Built in 1958, it is a familiar symbol of Japan's postwar recovery and economic growth. It was built for the purpose of transmitting television and radio waves, but now it is also a popular tourist attraction.

Tokyo Tower primarily functions as a communications and tourism tower. The tower has two main observation decks, the 150m main deck and the 250m top deck, offering panoramic views of Tokyo. Furthermore, the top deck, located at a height of 250 meters, was renovated in 2018, and you can enjoy a futuristic atmosphere with geometric mirrors and LED lights. On a clear day, you can see Mt. Fuji, Mt. Tsukuba, and even the Boso Peninsula and Miura Peninsula.

Its bright red and white colors comply with aviation laws and make it a prominent presence on Tokyo's skyline day and night. The tower is repainted every five years and maintains its bright appearance for about a year. It is also famous for its night illuminations, and in addition to the regular illuminations called ``Landmark Lights'', special illuminations called ``Diamond Veil'' are held on special days. This will make the night view of Tokyo even more beautiful.

2. History of Tokyo Tower

■ 1950s: Background and start of construction

Tokyo Tower was completed in 1958 as a landmark symbolizing Japan's postwar recovery. After World War II, Japan aimed to rebuild and modernize, and the construction of Tokyo Tower was one of its symbolic projects. The tower was designed by renowned architect Tanaka Naito and is modeled after the Eiffel Tower, but also incorporates unique Japanese design elements.

■ 1950s: Construction background and process

NHK began television broadcasting in 1953, and commercial broadcasting stations also opened one after another. This required a large broadcasting tower to transmit radio waves throughout the Tokyo area. Tokyo Tower, whose construction began in 1957, was 333 meters high, making it the world's tallest freestanding steel tower at the time. Scrap metal from American tanks used in the Korean War was used in this construction project to compensate for post-war resource shortages.

■ 1958: Completion and release

It was completed and opened to the public on December 23, 1958. At the time, it was 333 meters high, surpassing the Eiffel Tower as the world's tallest freestanding steel tower. Construction took one and a half years, employed 220,000 workers, and cost a total of 2.8 billion yen. The building was designed by Tanaka Naito and was designed to withstand earthquakes and typhoons.

■ 2010s: Relationship and evolution with Sky Tree

Completed in 2011, Tokyo Skytree is 634 meters high, making it the tallest free-standing radio tower in Japan, surpassing Tokyo Tower. As a result, the transmission function for digital broadcasts has primarily been transferred to Sky Tree, but Tokyo Tower continues to be responsible for transmitting radio broadcasts and some television broadcasts. In addition, it remains an attractive tourist destination, attracting many visitors. By coexisting with Skytree, Tokyo Tower is fulfilling a new role while maintaining its status as a historical and cultural symbol.

■ Earthquake resistance and the evolution of its role

During the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, Tokyo Tower proved its earthquake resistance and became a symbol of Japan's resilience and strength. It was also lit up in 2020 to support medical workers during the coronavirus pandemic, making its role more than just a broadcast tower.

3. Tokyo Tower View Spots

Tokyo Tower is an iconic landmark that adds to the stunning landscape of Tokyo. There are numerous spots where you can enjoy the beautiful view of the tower. Here are some highly recommended viewing spots.

■ Zojoji Temple

Located right next to Tokyo Tower, Zojoji Temple is a historic temple where you can take beautiful photos of the tower contrasted with traditional buildings. The best times to visit are when the morning light illuminates the east-facing main hall or when the tower is lit up at night.

■ Shiba Park

Shiba Park is one of the oldest parks in Japan, offering a wonderful view of Tokyo Tower as its backdrop. The view from the eastern side of the park is particularly good, and at night, the tower looks beautiful from the lamp-lit paths.

■ Sakurada Street

Sakurada Street provides a direct view of Tokyo Tower, which can be photographed from the central median of the road. The view is especially stunning during the Christmas season when the street is adorned with illuminations.

■ Tokyo Tower Parking Lot Stairs

The stairs in the Tokyo Tower parking lot offer a popular Instagram-worthy shot. It is a hidden gem, but once found, you can take fantastic photos. At night, you can capture the light trails of cars along with the illuminated Tokyo Tower.

■ Roppongi Hills Mori Tower

The observation deck of the Mori Tower in Roppongi Hills provides a wide view of Tokyo, including Tokyo Tower. The night view is especially beautiful, with the tower's illumination standing out vividly.

These spots offer unique and stunning views of Tokyo Tower, each with its own charm.

4. Tokyo Tower Surrounding Spots

■ Top Deck Tour

The Top Deck Tour of Tokyo Tower is a premium tour that takes you to the top deck, located 250 meters high, via a special elevator. Participants are guided around the observation deck, enjoying panoramic views of Tokyo. On clear days, you can see Mount Fuji and Tokyo Bay, making this breathtaking view well worth the visit.

■ Terrace Dining TANGO

Located near Tokyo Tower, Terrace Dining TANGO is a stylish restaurant offering a variety of dishes with a focus on Italian cuisine. The terrace seating provides a close-up view of Tokyo Tower, and at night, you can enjoy your meal while watching the illuminated tower. It’s an ideal spot for both lunch and dinner.

■ RED° TOKYO TOWER

RED° TOKYO TOWER, located within Tokyo Tower, is Japan's largest VR/AR/e-sports theme park. It features a wide range of attractions and games using the latest technology, making it a fun destination for families and friends. The park also hosts regular competitions and events, making it a must-visit spot for e-sports fans.

■ Shiba Park

Located on the east side of Tokyo Tower, Shiba Park is one of Japan's first designated parks, established in 1873. The park offers a relaxing, green space that allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It features jogging paths and benches, attracting people for morning walks and exercise.

One of the highlights is the view of Tokyo Tower from Shiba Park. The open space of the park provides a close-up view of the tower, allowing you to enjoy its beautiful presence. In spring, the park becomes a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, attracting families and friends for picnics, enhancing its charm even further.

■ Zojoji Temple

Located right next to Tokyo Tower, Zojoji Temple is the head temple of the Jodo sect, founded in 1393. Tokugawa Ieyasu moved it to its current location in 1598, and it flourished as the family temple of the Tokugawa shoguns during the Edo period. The temple grounds include the graves of Tokugawa shoguns, providing a sense of history and culture.

Within the grounds of Zojoji Temple, there are historical structures such as the Great Gate and the Sangedatsumon Gate. The Sangedatsumon Gate, in particular, is an important cultural property that represents early Edo period architecture. The view of Tokyo Tower from this gate is spectacular, and many tourists take photos from this vantage point.

In Conclusion

Tokyo Tower was built as a symbol of Japan’s post-war reconstruction and economic growth, and it continues to be loved by many people today. With its beautiful views from the observation decks and the surrounding attractions, it’s a place worth visiting. Be sure to visit Tokyo Tower and its surrounding spots to experience its charm. As a bridge connecting the past, present, and future, Tokyo Tower will continue to shine brightly.