Ueno is one of the closest areas in central Tokyo to Tokyo Skytree. The quickest train route is the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line from Ueno to Asakusa (2 minutes), then a 10-minute walk to Oshiage. Alternatively, walk from Ueno Park to the Skytree in about 30 minutes, or take a taxi in about 10 minutes.
Quick Answer: Fastest train: Tokyo Metro Ginza Line from Ueno to Asakusa (2 minutes), then walk 10 to 15 minutes north to Oshiage and Tokyo Skytree. Total: about 20 minutes.
Alternatively, walk directly from the Ueno Park area to the Tokyo Skytree in about 30 minutes. The route is straightforward, and the tower is visible from a distance as a navigation aid.
Best Route
Via Ginza Line and walk (recommended): Tokyo Metro Ginza Line from Ueno Station (G16) to Asakusa Station (G19). 2 minutes, approximately 180 yen. From Asakusa Station, walk north across the Sumida River toward Oshiage and Tokyo Skytree. About 10 to 15 minutes on foot. Total: 20 minutes.
Direct walk: From Ueno Park, walk northeast through Iriya and across the Sumida River area toward Oshiage—about 30 minutes. The Skytree is visible from the northern edge of Ueno as a navigation landmark.
Via Asakusa (sightseeing combination): Walk from Ueno to Asakusa (about 20 minutes), visit Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise, then continue north to Skytree. This adds 30 to 45 minutes but combines two major attractions into a single route.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1 (train route): At Ueno Station, board the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line (G, orange) toward Asakusa. 2 stops from Ueno (Ueno, Ueno-Hirokoji, Inaricho, Asakusa). About 4 minutes. Alight at Asakusa Station (G19).
Step 2: From Asakusa Station, exit and cross the Sumida River on the Azuma Bridge (Azumabashi). On the far side, Tokyo Skytree is directly visible ahead to the northeast. Walk for 10 to 15 minutes toward Oshiage following the tower.
Step 3: Enter Tokyo Skytree Town from the east side at the Oshiage entrance. Follow the signs underground to the tower base. The ticket counter is on the 4th floor.
Cost
Ginza Line Ueno to Asakusa: Approximately 180 yen. Not JR Pass.
Walk from Ueno: Free.
Tokyo Skytree entry: Tembo Deck: 2,100 yen adult weekday, 2,300 yen weekend.
Travel Time
Train plus walk: approximately 20 minutes from Ueno to the Skytree ticket counter.
Direct walk: approximately 30-35 minutes. Flat terrain, easy navigation with the tower visible ahead.
Taxi Option
A taxi from Ueno to Tokyo Skytree costs approximately 1,000 to 1,800 yen and takes about 10 minutes. This is the most convenient option for luggage or for a quick arrival. The tower is close enough that the taxi fare is reasonable.
Best Option with Luggage
A taxi from Ueno to Skytree is the best luggage option given the short distance and reasonable fare. The Ginza Line route plus walk is also manageable. Tokyo Skytree Town has coin lockers in the basement.
Best Option Late at Night
Tokyo Skytree’s last entry is 10 pm. The Tokyo Metro Ginza Line from Asakusa back toward Ueno runs until midnight. Taxis from the Oshiage area are available at all hours if you stay past the last train time.
Nearby Guides
FAQ
Can I walk from Ueno to Tokyo Skytree?
Yes. The walk from Ueno Park to Tokyo Skytree takes approximately 30 to 35 minutes on flat ground. The tower is visible from northern Ueno and serves as a navigation landmark. It is a pleasant walk through the Kiyokawa and Oshiage neighbourhoods.
Is Ueno a good base for visiting Tokyo Skytree?
Yes. Ueno is one of the closest areas in central Tokyo to the Skytree. The 20-minute Metro journey plus a walk is shorter than the trip from Shinjuku or Shibuya. Combining a Ueno museum visit in the morning with a visit to Tokyo Skytree in the afternoon is an efficient day structure.
Is Asakusa better than Ueno as a base for Tokyo Skytree?
Asakusa is marginally closer to the Skytree (about 15 minutes’ walk) and has the added appeal of Senso-ji Temple. Ueno has more museum options and Ueno Park. Either area works well as a Skytree base.
