Tokyo tower red

Discover Tokyo Tower, a 333-meter communications tower in Tokyo, inspired by the Eiffel Tower and a symbol of Japan's post-war reconstruction.

About this subject

Tokyo Tower is a communications and observation tower in Minato, Tokyo, Japan. Completed on December 23, 1958, it was built as a symbol of Japan's rebirth after World War II. Standing 333 meters tall, the tower is 9 meters higher than its inspiration, the Eiffel Tower, and weighs approximately 4,000 tons. Its steel lattice structure follows Western tower design but was engineered to withstand earthquakes and typhoons common in Japan. The paint in international orange and white complies with aviation safety regulations to ensure visibility for aircraft. The tower primarily functions as an antenna for TV and radio broadcasters, but also houses two observation decks: the Main Deck at 150 meters and the Top Deck at 250 meters, offering panoramic views of the metropolis. Since its opening, Tokyo Tower has welcomed over 180 million visitors, making it one of Japan's most popular tourist attractions. Its nighttime lighting changes according to seasons and special events, such as red for New Year or rainbow for Tokyo Rainbow Pride. Despite the construction of Tokyo Skytree in 2012, which surpassed it in height and took over some digital broadcasts, Tokyo Tower retains its status as a cultural and emotional icon for Japanese people, frequently appearing in films, anime, and photographs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Tokyo Tower?

Tokyo Tower is 333 meters tall, making it 9 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower.

What is Tokyo Tower used for?

The tower serves as a broadcast antenna for TV and radio stations, and also features observation decks at 150 and 250 meters for tourism.

Is Tokyo Tower taller than Tokyo Skytree?

No. Tokyo Skytree, completed in 2012, stands at 634 meters, nearly twice the height of Tokyo Tower.