Tokyo Skytree Observation Decks: Complete Comparison Guide

Tokyo Skytree features two main observation decks that offer spectacular views of Tokyo and beyond.

Tembo Deck (350 meters)

The lower observation deck spans three levels (floors 340, 345, and 350) and sits 350 meters above ground. This deck features massive 5-meter-high glass panels providing 360-degree panoramic views that extend up to 70 kilometers on clear days. The deck has a capacity of up to 2,000 visitors and includes glass floor sections where you can look directly down to the streets below. You’ll find restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and photo opportunities on this level.

Tembo Galleria (450 meters)

The upper observation deck reaches 450 meters and accommodates up to 900 people. This deck features a unique spiral glass-covered skywalk that takes visitors from floor 445 to floor 450, the highest point of the tower. The experience creates the sensation of walking through the sky.

Views and Practical Information

From these decks, you can see iconic Tokyo landmarks including the Shinjuku skyscrapers, Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo Bay, and even Mount Fuji on clear days. Tickets are available for just the Tembo Deck or as a combined ticket for both decks. Booking tickets online in advance is strongly recommended to avoid long queues. A typical visit takes 1.5 to 3 hours depending on wait times and whether you visit both decks.

Detailed Comparison: Tembo Deck vs Tembo Galleria

The Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria at Tokyo Skytree offer distinct experiences and features for visitors, with differences in height, design, crowd levels, and accessibility.

Feature Comparison Table

Feature	Tembo Deck (350m)	Tembo Galleria (450m)
Height	350 meters	450 meters
Layout	Three-level circular deck with 360° views	Sloping spiral ramp (“skywalk”) looping around the tower
Window Design	Taller but some areas blocked by shops/cafés	Fewer obstructions, get close to the glass everywhere
Special Experiences	Glass floor section for dizzying straight-down view	”Floating in the sky” feeling as you walk the spiral skywalk
Facilities	Cafés, restaurants, photo booth, gift shop	Smaller area, less crowded, more relaxed viewing
View Quality	Iconic Tokyo, Sumida River, Mount Fuji on clear days	Higher vantage point, broader Kanto region, similar landmarks
Accessibility	Wheelchair accessible, bigger capacity	Accessible by special elevator from Tembo Deck
Crowd Levels	Can be busier, especially near windows	Usually less crowded, more space for relaxed viewing
Ticketing	Basic ticket covers this deck	Separate/add-on ticket required

Notable Distinctions

Tembo Deck is ideal for panoramic city views, with facilities and family-friendly activity zones.
Tembo Galleria offers a more immersive “skywalk” sensation and fewer crowding issues, but may feel only slightly higher in view compared to the lower deck for many visitors.
Both decks provide stunning views, but the Galleria appeals especially to those seeking the highest, most open vantage and a unique architectural experience.
Many visitors find the Tembo Deck sufficient, though the Galleria is recommended for enthusiasts or those wanting the full experience.

Both decks deliver memorable, world-class observation experiences; your choice depends on whether you prioritize amenities, crowd levels, or the thrill of the “world’s highest skywalk.”

Mount Fuji Visibility: Deck vs Galleria

Mount Fuji sightings from Tokyo Skytree are possible from both the Tembo Deck and the Tembo Galleria, and both offer stunning perspectives on clear days, but the difference between the views is modest.

Mount Fuji Views: Which Deck is Better?

The Tembo Galleria is 100 meters higher (450m vs 350m), which theoretically offers a more expansive view of the horizon, slightly increasing the odds of spotting Mount Fuji—especially if weather conditions are hazy or visibility near the surface is reduced.
However, for most visitors, the view of Mount Fuji from the Tembo Deck and Galleria is quite similar, since the angle and direction toward Mount Fuji do not change significantly with the extra height.
The more important factor is atmospheric clarity, not deck elevation; winter mornings are best for crisp views, regardless of deck.
If you want the very highest possible vantage and fewer obstructions, the Galleria does have the slight edge, but most visitors are equally satisfied with the Tembo Deck’s view for photographing Mount Fuji.

In summary, while the Tembo Galleria is technically superior due to its elevation and less crowded windows, both decks offer outstanding chances to see and photograph Mount Fuji when conditions are right.

Best Time for Photography at Tokyo Skytree Observation Decks

The best time for photography at either the Tembo Deck or Tembo Galleria is around sunset (“golden hour”) through twilight. This period gives photographers a chance to capture the daylight panorama, stunning colors as the sun sets, and the dramatic transition to Tokyo’s night skyline.

Tembo Deck (350m) Photography Tips

Arrive 60-90 minutes before sunset; you’ll catch both golden hour and the shift to city lights.
Morning visits provide crisp, long-distance city and Mount Fuji views with fewer crowds—especially good in winter or after rain.
Glass floor shots make dramatic downward compositions, but prime spots can get crowded—go early or late for less competition.

Tembo Galleria (450m) Photography Tips

Sunset is also ideal here, with higher elevation offering unique, wide city vistas and pastel skies.
Late evenings are quieter, so night photography can be relaxed and less crowded, but actually shooting through glass after dark is trickier due to reflections—use a lens hood or dark cloth against the glass.
For Mount Fuji, aim for clear winter afternoons; visibility is usually best then.

Practical Photography Advice

Tripods are not allowed on either deck; use a fast lens and stabilize by pressing your camera against the glass.
To minimize reflections, get as close to the window as possible and block out internal lighting with your sleeve or a cloth.
Book weekday tickets if possible to avoid crowding, especially for sunset slots.

In summary: For dramatic shots, arrive before sunset and stay through blue hour for both decks; mornings are best for clear long-distance Fuji shots, and evenings provide magical city light panoramas.

Best Months for Mount Fuji Visibility

The best months for Mount Fuji visibility from Tokyo Skytree are December through February. During these winter months, the air is crisp, humidity is low, and skies are typically clear, offering optimal chances to see Mount Fuji—even the iconic snow-capped peak.

Monthly Visibility Breakdown

December and January offer the highest odds, with over a 60–68% likelihood of catching a clear, full view of Mount Fuji from Tokyo Skytree observations.
February remains favorable, though chances drop slightly, with about a 50% chance of clear visibility.
November and March can also provide decent chances, but odds and atmospheric clarity decrease compared to midwinter months.
In contrast, June to September are the worst months due to high humidity, haze, frequent clouds, and typhoons, making sightings rare.
Early mornings, especially between 6–8 am, maximize your chances regardless of month.

Plan your Skytree visit in winter—ideally December or January, early in the morning—for the most reliable and photogenic Mount Fuji views from Tokyo.

Final Recommendations

When choosing between Tokyo Skytree’s observation decks:

For first-time visitors: The Tembo Deck (350m) offers excellent value with comprehensive facilities and spectacular 360-degree views
For photography enthusiasts: Both decks are excellent; arrive before sunset for golden hour shots
For Mount Fuji views: Visit December-January in early morning (6-8 AM) from either deck
For the ultimate experience: Purchase the combo ticket to experience both decks and the unique spiral skywalk
For fewer crowds: Visit the Tembo Galleria or choose weekday mornings

Book your tickets in advance to skip the queues and secure your preferred time slot for the best photography conditions!