BREATHTAKING PANORAMIC VIEWS OF JAPAN'S ICONIC SKYLINES

On your next adventure to Japan, why not elevate your sightseeing experience to new heights? Explore panoramic views of Tokyo’s bustling cityscape or admire Kyoto’s classic architecture from the sky. Elevated views of Japan’s largest cities are well within reach. Experience the vibrant cityscapes of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto from the outstanding heights of Japan’s tallest towers and skyscrapers.

Tokyo Skytree stands at a lofty 2080 feet tall (634 meters); as it soars above the city skyline, it’s visible from various wards within the city. It serves as a broadcasting tower for the Kanto region and, since its opening in 2012, Tokyo Skytree remains the tallest tower in the world. You’ll find it nestled into Tokyo’s Sumida Ward—by day, soaring above the skyline; by night, flashing colorful hues into the dark sky. It’s more than a simple broadcasting tower, it’s a landmark of Tokyo featuring dual observation decks and an expansive complex called Tokyo Skytree Town.

Tokyo Skytree

The breathtaking views? They’re just a short elevator ride away. In 50 seconds you’re pulled from the ground into the sky, arriving at one of Skytree’s dual observation points, the Tembo Deck. Rising 1148 ft (350 meters) from the ground, the Tembo Deck showcases a never-ending cityscape crammed with buildings, bridges, and roads, packed with momentum and life. Quite a humbling scene. After all, Tokyo remains the world's most populated city, home to over 37 million residents. While you soar in the sky, soak in the unforgettable views of the Kanto region from the Tembo Deck. Enjoy a photo session with family or friends, treat yourself to the Skytree Cafe, or go shopping at the Skytree Shop. Feeling brave? Walk on the glass floor and gaze down at a better than bird’s-eye view of Tokyo.

View from the Tembo Deck

Skytree even offers seasonal events including: cherry blossom viewing, summer fireworks events, and, during winter, light shows with illuminations. Themed experiences, typically anime or character-based events, such as Pokémon, Sailor Moon, Detective Conan, and even Disney’s Toy Story have or are currently being held at Tokyo Skytree. These events usually include a themed cafe, a limited-time souvenir store, photo spots with displays, and even light shows featuring projections of the shows or characters. For anime fans or Disney enthusiasts, limited-time experiences can make a trip to Skytree worthwhile!

Don’t let rainy weather spoil the view. Make sure to check the weather forecast before your trip to Tokyo Skytree or other observation decks. The best views appear on sunny, clear days with good air quality. And just a heads up; Japan’s weather can be temperamental, with sudden changes in the forecast. Try planning your visit around the weather, and check weather forecasts the day before your visit and on the day of your visit.

Walk from the Tembo Deck to the Tembo Galleria

Get ready to soar even higher! Skytree’s second observation deck, the Tembo Galleria, ascends 328 feet (100 meters) further into the sky. Here you’ll find more stunning vistas and a unique 3-D experience called Sorakara Point. Walk up a gentle slope from the Tembo Deck to discover more stunning views from the sky. Combined tickets for both the Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria are available for purchase.

On your way out, don’t forget to check out Skytree Town, located at the base of this iconic landmark. It features Solamachi Mall, home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops—including the World Beer Museum, the Sanrio store, and Studio Ghibli’s official merchandise store. Enjoy family-friendly fun at Skytree Town’s Sumida Aquarium or Konica Minolta Planetarium. Asakusa’s beloved, Senso-ji Temple, is also only a 20-minute walk away from Tokyo Skytree Town. With so much to see and a vast city to explore, the options are—well, endless! Keep Skytree at the top of your bucket list—you won’t want to miss out.

Traveling with All Japan Tours is a fantastic way to explore Tokyo Skytree. Many of our itineraries, including our top-rated journeys, The Golden Route and The Best of Japan, feature an opportunity to discover the beauty of Skytree. Don’t miss out on a chance to explore Tokyo and other unique attractions.

Tennoji Station's MIO Shopping Center and Abeno Harukas

Osaka’s tallest skyscraper rests in the heart of the Tennoji Ward. Abeno Harukas, the second tallest building in Japan, stands at an impressive 984 ft tall (300 meters). Abeno Harukas, opened in 2014, hosts one of Japan’s largest department stores, and as it towers over the city of Osaka, its glassy blue frame is instantly recognizable. Abeno Harukas offers spectacular panoramic views of Osaka and its surrounding areas (Nara, Kyoto, and Kobe) on its observation deck, Harukas 300. From the height of the 60th floor, witness the stunning scenery of Kansai: impressive mountains, weaving train systems, sprawling green spaces, and the striking silhouette of Osaka Castle. It’s the perfect photo spot for families, friends, and couples alike.

Similar to Tokyo Skytree, Harukas 300 offers vibrant limited-time projections and collaborations with beloved characters including Godzilla, Sanrio, and Pokémon. As Christmas arrives, seasonal celebrations await you on the 16th floor’s outdoor garden, which lights up with brilliant illuminations and colorful displays. Abeno Haruka also features the Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel, a luxury 5-star hotel with stunning views from its upscale restaurant and a popular art museum that hosts temporary art installations, with previous exhibits by Impressionist artist Monet and Ukiyo-e master Hokusai. Combined tickets for both the art museum and viewing deck are available for purchase.

Tennoji Park

Looking for a quick bite or have free time to spare? Explore Abeno Haruka’s upscale department store, home to a variety of luxury brands, restaurants, and an abundance of souvenir shops. Journey into Tennoji Ward and experience the charms of Japanese street fashion at shopping centers like Q’s Mall, home to iconic boutiques like Shibuya 109 Abeno. Tennoji Park, also known as Tenshiba, lies just across the street from Abeno Harukas. Unwind in the warm sunlight or visit Tennoji Zoo, a hidden treasure nestled into the edge of the park. With so much to see, why not discover the magic of Abeno Harukas? It’s just a short walk from JR Osaka Loop Line or Osaka Metro’s Tanimachi and Midosuji Lines. Once you cross the street, you’re there!

Twilight View from Harukas 300

Now that you’ve checked the weather, let’s talk about timing. Just before sunset, or what photographers call Golden Hour, is an absolute showstopper. Dreamy views of the city wrapped in a soft, gilded light? Sounds pretty worthwhile in and of itself. But as Golden Hour wanes, a picturesque sunset emerges, blanketing pink and orange hues across the sky—and you’ve got the best seat in the house! As twilight unfolds, like stars in the night sky, a sea of twinkling city lights are unveiled. It’s three incredible views in one, making Golden Hour a can’t-miss experience.

Scenery from Kyoto Tower

Kyoto Tower lies in the heart of Japan’s former capital city. This red and white tower rises above the skyline, and from its outlook, charming scenes of Kyoto’s historic temples, lush mountains, and much more await. Unlike Osaka and Tokyo, where high-rise apartments and towering offices dominate the skyline, Kyoto’s stringent building regulations have preserved this historic city, ensuring that nothing obstructs the breathtaking view. Kyoto is nestled in the center of lush greenery with mountains unfolding in every direction. Here traditional structures like Kiyomizu-dera and modern architecture coexist, blending into a beautiful scene that's only available from Kyoto’s tallest structure. Go ahead—use the free telescopes and soak in the view!

Kyoto Tower Building

Conveniently located just across from Kyoto Station, Kyoto Tower makes for a great starting point before an adventure into the city. After admiring the dazzling skyline, experience the charms of Fushimi Inari or the unforgettable scenery of Arashiyama (all easily accessible from Kyoto Station) or add Kyoto Tower onto our “Where to go in Kyoto: One Day Itinerary.”

Japan’s lively cities are waiting to be explored. Why not experience them from some of the world’s most astonishing heights?