Tokyo is a city of dazzling contrasts — centuries-old temples sitting in the shadow of glittering skyscrapers, and neon-lit crossings just minutes from serene palace gardens. For first-time visitors, its great landmarks are the perfect way to get your bearings and feel the sheer scale and energy of the place. Here are the icons to build your trip around.
Tokyo Skytree
At 634 metres, the Tokyo Skytree is the tallest structure in Japan and one of the tallest towers in the world. Its two observation decks offer breathtaking views that, on a clear day, stretch all the way to Mount Fuji. The tower glows in shifting colors after dark, and at its base sits a huge complex of shops, restaurants, and an aquarium. Book a timed ticket online to skip the longest queues, and aim for sunset to catch the city by both day and night.
Tokyo Tower
The older, red-and-white Tokyo Tower remains the city’s most beloved landmark. Inspired by the Eiffel Tower but painted in bright international orange, it has watched over Tokyo since 1958. Its main and top decks give wonderful views over the surrounding districts, and it looks especially magical illuminated at night. Many visitors find it more charming and nostalgic than the taller Skytree — it is well worth seeing both.
Shibuya Crossing
Perhaps the most famous pedestrian crossing on earth, Shibuya Crossing is pure Tokyo — a scramble where hundreds of people surge across from all directions every time the lights change, surrounded by giant video screens and neon. It is mesmerizing to watch and exhilarating to cross. For the classic overhead view, head to the windows of the surrounding cafes or the nearby Shibuya Sky observation deck. Don’t miss the statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog, just beside the station.
The Imperial Palace
For a complete change of pace, the Imperial Palace sits in a vast green oasis at the very heart of Tokyo. The home of Japan’s Imperial Family, its inner grounds are largely closed to the public, but the beautiful East Gardens are free to explore, with their moats, stone walls, and the remains of the old Edo Castle. The wide plaza and pine-lined approaches make for a peaceful, historic stroll away from the city bustle.
Rainbow Bridge and the Bay
Down on Tokyo Bay, the elegant Rainbow Bridge connects the city to the futuristic island district of Odaiba. Lit up beautifully at night, it is a striking sight and a symbol of modern Tokyo. Odaiba itself is full of attractions, shopping, and waterfront views back toward the skyline — a great spot to end a day, especially as the lights come on across the water.
Seeing the Landmarks
Tokyo’s landmarks are spread across the city, but its superb train and subway network makes hopping between them easy. Grab a rechargeable Suica or Pasmo card to glide through the gates, wear comfortable shoes, and try to mix a tower or crossing with a quieter spot like the palace gardens for balance. Time at least one viewpoint for dusk — watching this endless city light up is an unforgettable Tokyo moment.
More Tokyo guides: explore the full Tokyo Travel Guides series.
3 thoughts on “Tokyo’s Top Landmarks: Skytree, Tokyo Tower & Shibuya Crossing”