Back in 1958 Tokyo's brand-new TV networks needed a tall antenna array to transmit signals, and the city needed a national symbol as it struggled to emerge from the devastation of World War II. The result was the 333-metre high white and orange Tokyo Tower, a structure that bears more than a passing resemblance to France's Eiffel Tower and which has just celebrated its 55th anniversary. The two observatory points quickly became major tourist attractions and the tower now attracts around 2.4 million visitors a year. As well as the amazing views, there's a small art gallery, the Guinness Book of World Records Museum Tokyo, and a wax museum in a complex known as Foot Town, found at the base of the tower.
Visitors who want to go up the steel structure should take one of the express elevators from the first floor to the Main Observatory which is 145 metres high. As well as the great views, there's a stage for live music, and a cafe. For an extra fee, you can take another elevator up to the Special Observatory which is at 250 metres for even more impressive 360-degree views. In 1989, to increase visitor numbers, lighting was enhanced and increased. In the summer, white lighting is used to create a cooling effect and during the winter, orange lighting is used in the early evening, to provide a feeling of warmth. For seasonal celebrations, additional lights in seven different colours are used.
One you've enjoyed the views, head back down to the ground and have a wander around Foot Town in the base of the tower. There's an excellent food court, a children's amusement park, the Guinness Book of World Records Museum and one of the world's largest aquariums, with more than 50,000 fish.
Tokyo Tower is located in southern Tokyo’s Minato district. There are plenty of bus and subway routes that have stops near Tokyo Tower. Alternatively, you can take the Tokyo monorail. The nearest subway station is Akabanebashi. There is also a paid car park next to the tower if you are driving.
