With so many things to do, sights to see, and food to eat in Japan, it’s difficult to decide what to include in your itinerary. As much as we want to do, see, and eat everything all at once, it’s impossible to squeeze them in just one trip! Fortunately, during our Tokyo trip, we discovered something that will help you maximize your vacation – TOKYO SKYTREE!

TOKYO SKYTREE view from TOKYO mizumachi (Photo: Gizelle Caoile)

TOKYO SKYTREE view from Tenbō Galleria observation deck (Photo: Gizelle Caoile)

One-Stop Tourist Spot

Turns out, you can make the most of your trip to Japan in just one stop. TOKYO SKYTREE is the world’s tallest freestanding tower, so you’ll get a wonderful 360-degree view of the vibrant capital of Japan! It stands at 634 meters, providing the highest observatories in Tokyo: the lower Tenbō Deck (350 meters high) and the Tenbō Galleria (450 meters high). Furthermore, it offers a different vibe during the day, in the afternoon, and at night, making each visit a unique experience.

Photos: TOKYO SKYTREE

When you visit the TOKYO SKYTREE during nighttime, you will still be able to appreciate its majestic stature thanks to its lighting. Its usual colors are Iki, Miyabi, and Nobori, but during Sakura season, it is lit with the color of cherry blossoms which they call “Mai.” Bonus tip: the Night View Ticket gets you a free drink! *Advanced tickets only. Available after 6 PM.

TOKYO SKYTREE night view overlooking Sumida River and Tokyo Tower (Photo: Gizelle Caoile)

At this height, you can already see other Japanese landmarks like the Tokyo Tower, Sumida River, Mount Fuji, and more! While enjoying the bird’s eye view of Japan, you can even have drinks and treats from SKYTREE CAFE. Their soft-serve ice cream makes for a satisfying and Instagrammable moment! And for those who consider every hour happy hour, there are beverage choices for you too.

TOKYO SKYTREE view overlooking Mt. Fuji (Photo: Gizelle Caoile)

SKYTREE CAFE at TOKYO SKYTREE

Always a Fresh Perspective

As I watched over from the deck, I couldn’t help but fall deeper in love with Japan. Everything is beautiful from up there everywhere you look no matter what time of the day! It was charming and calming. I felt grateful for being where I am at the moment, literally and figuratively. And how I wish I could feel high on life like this forever. For now, all I could take home are the memories captured in photos and videos. We even had a couple professionally taken at the photo booths for the best results, so we now have both hard copies to keep as souvenirs and soft copies to share online!

TOKYO SKYTREE souvenirs

But before you head down, don’t forget to make a wish! This is one of the best things to do in TOKYO SKYTREE. Visitors can now write one wish on a ribbon and tie it to the “W1SH RIBBON” monument! Yes, just the one! It really lets you think about what you really want in life. But no pressure for those who don’t know theirs yet… It will probably get to you when you’re there, especially with the breathtaking view!

TOKYO SKYTREE W1SH RIBBON MONUMENT (Photos: Gizelle Caoile)

When the monument gets full, everyone’s wishes are sent to Kashima Shrine in Ibaraki; also known as “The Palace of the Rising Sun” and “The Start of the Journey and Guardian;” or the beginning of the ley line that is believed to have positive energy. It is also where the Skytree lies, along with Meiji Shrine and the Imperial Palace. This is why it is named one of Tokyo’s spiritual spots! Plus, what makes this monument even more interesting is that it was installed at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic as a symbol of hope.

Tokyo Shopping Experience

Came to Japan to shop? TOKYO Solamachi is right at the foot of Skytree! Satisfy your Tokyo shopping experience in this shopping destination with more than 300 stores, including some of our favorite brands. However, to really immerse in Japanese culture, we recommend dropping by Kanzashiya Wargo and Asakura Amezaiku Ameshin. These are where you can buy traditional Japanese items, such as Japanese hair ornaments or “kanzashi” and the famous Japanese artistically crafted candies or “amezaiku!”

Kanzashiya Wargo at TOKYO Solamachi (Photos: Gizelle Caoile)

Asakura Amezaiku Ameshi at TOKYO Solamachi (Photos: Gizelle Caoile)

Japanese Food Cravings Satisfied

Tsukishima Meibutsu Monja DARUMA restaurant in TOKYO Solamachi (Photos: Gizelle Caoile)

Of course, you can also get your Japanese food fix here. Japanese cuisine offers a vast selection beyond sushi and ramen, and one of the must-try Japanese foods in TOKYO Solamachi is monjayaki! If you’re hearing this for the first time, it’s similar to okonomiyaki, but much lighter so you’ll still have space for dessert or be able to push through with your planned itinerary without a food coma… LOL. Taste the difference yourself at the Tsukishima Meibutsu Monja DARUMA restaurant in TOKYO Solamachi, where they feature a special menu item: the mouthwatering Skytree Monjayaki!

Under the Sea and Beyond the Skyline

Meanwhile, the SUMIDA AQUARIUM is perfect for those who are looking for activities for kids in Tokyo! This child-friendly place houses about 7,000 aquatic creatures, including penguins, sharks, and stingrays to name a few… Not to mention the famous spotted garden eels! I have to admit though that coming here brought out the child in me, so I would recommend this to kids at heart, and animal lovers too. We even got to get as close to them as possible with their open indoor tanks! Although, I’m pretty sure marine life enthusiasts who are traveling to Tokyo already have this on their itinerary.

SUMIDA AQUARIUM (Photos: Gizelle Caoile)

Space lovers, on the other hand, might opt for the Konica Minolta Planetarium Tenku! Viewers of this dome theater will be treated to an immersive experience with its realistic and dynamic images. These are also complemented with the latest 3D sound technology; and–what I love about it the most–scented with original aromas for a truly relaxing retreat! Limited individuals can even get an enhanced experience with its exclusive custom-made crescent moon-shaped seats. And if you’re really lucky, you might even catch a screening of a show that you like!

Konica Minolta Planetarium Tenku (Photos: Gizelle Caoile)

Gashapon Bandai Official Shop

Photo: TOKYO SKYTREE

TOKYO Solamachi is the location of the Gashapon Bandai Official Shop in Tokyo. Try your luck at 240 vending machines that exclusively offer Bandai Gashapon products! Also known as “capsule toys,” Gashapon offers a wide range of toys, figurines, keychains, and more, featuring characters from popular anime, manga, and video games. These are highly sought after by fans and collectors because of their variety and collectibility. The element of surprise keeps Gashapon aficionados coming back for more, while their sizes make them easier to store!

Along the Way

In case you didn’t know, TOKYO SKYTREE is within walking distance from Asakusa, the district where Sensō-ji is located. After saying a little prayer or reading your omikuji prediction at Tokyo’s oldest temple, you can take a stroll along the shops at Nakamise-dori, and then head on to SUMIDA RIVER WALK for Sakura spotting and attaching your love locks. At the end of the footbridge, you will find TOKYO mizumachi where you can have lunch, dinner, or snacks on your way to the iconic tower! As for us, we made a pit stop at Shake Tree Diner to feast on their Wildin’ Out and Cheese Planet burgers.

Shake Tree Diner at TOKYO mizumachi (Photos: Gizelle Caoile)

Road to TOKYO SKYTREE / Kimono Experience

Total Japan Experience

Oh, and by the way, you can do all of these while wearing a kimono! Renting a kimono at Asakusa “Hanaka” includes the full package: hairstyling with hair accessories or “kanzashi,” a small drawstring purse or pouch or “kinchaku,” and the traditional Japanese footwear or “zori” to complete the look! This way, you can level up your Japan trip photos during your tour around the area. Another bonus tip: the Skytree Enjoy Pack is a TOKYO SKYTREE ticket that already comes with a kimono experience! Using this, you won’t have to worry about booking multiple activities in one area.

SUMIDA RIVER WALK cherry blossoms (Photos: Gizelle Caoile / Kacy Chua)

Even though I just got home from Japan, I can’t wait to go back already! On this particular trip, we had both iconic and unique experiences with TOKYO SKYTREE at the center of our itinerary. It’s no wonder why the landmark is on every list of things to do in Japan! At the expense of being cliché, I just have to say that it was truly one for the books. So I truly hope that you, too, will have the opportunity to discover all of these hidden gems in Tokyo and rediscover Japan from a whole new perspective!

Traveling to Japan soon? Book your TOKYO SKYTREE ticket now through their website (CLICK HERE)!

TOKYO SKYTREE

• Address: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan
• Website: https://www.tokyo-skytree.jp/en/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TOKYOSKYTREE.official/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tokyoskytree_official/