Tokyo Skytree

Nikken Sekkei · Oshiage · 2012

Tokyo Skytree
Architectural Icon

Neo-futurism meets Edo-period aesthetics — the world's tallest tower

Tower in Tokyo, Japan.

Major PracticeArchitectural Icon
Architect
Nikken Sekkei
Year
2012
Coordinates
35.7101°, 139.8107°
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Visitor Guide

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Visitor Tip

Go to the Tembo Galleria (450m) not just the Tembo Deck (350m). The glass floor section is vertigo-inducing. Clear winter days offer views to Mount Fuji.

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Best Photo Spot

From Jukken Bridge at night for the reflection in the Sumida River, or from Asakusa with Senso-ji in the foreground.

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Access & Hours

Open daily. Two observation decks with separate tickets. Combo tickets cheaper. Arrive early on weekends — the queue can be hours.

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Time Needed

1.5-2 hours

Design & Structure

ExoskeletonDiagrid
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Computational Process

Nikken Sekkei designed the cross-section to transition from an equilateral triangle at the base to a circle at the 320m mark. This geometric transition was computationally optimized for wind resistance — the changing profile disrupts vortex shedding at different heights.

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Materiality

Steel lattice tower (36,000 tonnes), concrete central shaft, glass observation decks. The lattice pattern references traditional Japanese sori (concave curvature) and mukuri (convex curvature).

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Structural Innovation

A central reinforced concrete shaft with steel lattice exterior creates a vibration damping system — the two structures sway slightly out of phase, canceling earthquake-induced motion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed Tokyo Skytree?+

Tokyo Skytree was designed by Nikken Sekkei and completed in 2012. It is located in Oshiage, Japan.

Where is Tokyo Skytree located?+

Tokyo Skytree is located in Oshiage, Japan. Its coordinates are 35.7101°, 139.8107°.

When was Tokyo Skytree built?+

Tokyo Skytree was completed in 2012. It was designed by Nikken Sekkei.

Can I visit Tokyo Skytree?+

Tokyo Skytree is a real building in Oshiage that can be viewed from the outside. Check local information for interior access and visiting hours. Use the Parametric Atlas walking tour feature to plan a route that includes this building.