Visiting timetableClosed
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
1-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo, Japan
Back to culture
history

Tokyo Skytree – Build Timeline with Photos

See how Tokyo Skytree rose from 2008 to 2012 with milestone photos and a quick timeline.

1/17/2026
14 min read
Early construction of Tokyo Skytree in 2008

2008 foundation

Milestones Timeline

Year Phase What Happened
2008 Groundwork Foundation, base framing, core prep
2009 Vertical Rise Lattice climbing past low-rise blocks
2010 Deck Builds Deck structures and interior systems
2011 Fit-Out Glazing, elevators, finishing, testing
2012 Opening Public debut and broadcast ramp

2009 build

Anatomy in Brief

  • Tri-pod base morphs to circular shaft aloft.
  • Central shimbashira-style core for seismic resilience.
  • Diagrid lattice for stiffness with less steel.

2011 works

Quick Glossary

  • Shimbashira: central pillar concept adapted from pagodas.
  • Diagrid: diagonal grid structure that carries load efficiently.
  • TMD: tuned mass damping to reduce sway.

Construction Notes

  • Off-site fabrication minimized on-street disruption.
  • Wind-tunnel tests refined the tower profile.
  • Maintenance catwalks baked into the lattice.
Why so tall?

Broadcast coverage and signal clarity, plus a definitive skyline marker for the eastern wards.

About the Author

Tokyo Travel Expert

Tokyo Travel Expert

I built this Skytree guide to keep your visit simple, spacious, and full of small, helpful tips — from transport to timing to where to linger for the best light.

Tags

History
Construction
Timeline

Comments (0)

Leave a Comment

Loading comments...