Happy 1st Birthday: A Big Introduction to Tokyo Skytree’s First Anniversary Events
Last updated 2026-09-25 — Tokyo Skytree (東京スカイツリー) opened on May 22, 2012, and has been holding various celebratory events since May of this year, culminating on its birthday—May 22. From special light-up shows to mascot merchandise and collaborative commemorative goods from partner shops, a dazzling array of first-birthday limited activities await. The surrounding Asakusa and Sumida districts—Tokyo Skytree’s two major sightseeing zones—will also join in the festivities with a series of special events and offers from local businesses.
By MOOK Scenic Spots Tourism Life Network, Reported and Translated by Zhang Yingying
Tokyo Skytree (東京スカイツリー) opened on May 22, 2012, and has been holding various celebratory events since May of this year, culminating on its birthday—May 22. From special light-up shows to mascot merchandise and collaborative commemorative goods from partner shops, a dazzling array of first-birthday limited activities await. The surrounding Asakusa and Sumida districts—Tokyo Skytree’s two major sightseeing zones—will also join in the festivities with a series of special events and offers from local businesses.
The heartfelt and commemorative 1st anniversary celebration will be centered in May, peaking between May 22 and 26. (Image source: http://www.tokyo-skytree.jp)
A birthday memorial light show you won’t want to miss
First, on May 20, Tokyo Skytree celebrated reaching 6.34 million visitors early, as its height of 634 meters inspired this symbolic target. Achieving this milestone just before its birthday was an extra cause for celebration. Starting May 7, special light-up displays have taken place every day, but on the eve of the birthday, all lighting patterns will be shown at once. On the evening of the birthday, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., visitors can enjoy up to 12 different light variations over two rounds, with a new pattern every 10 minutes—a dream come true for fans and photography enthusiasts alike.
Tokyo Skytree Nighttime Special Light-Up Schedule (Image source: http://www.tokyo-skytree.jp)
First-anniversary badge giveaway and mascot appearances
On the birthday itself, visitors can enjoy a mascot performance titled “WELCOME！WONDER SKY” at the 4F TOKYO SKYTREE TOWN Plaza. Starting at 12 p.m., first-anniversary limited-edition badges will also be handed out to entrants. In addition, a collaboration event featuring Tokyo Skytree mascots Sorakara and Hello Kitty will see them dancing together on stage. Kumamon, the ultra-popular mascot from Kumamoto Prefecture, will also make an appearance to celebrate the birthday and promote tourism in his home prefecture. These performances are sure to thrill visitors of all ages.
First-anniversary celebration events include a joint performance by Tokyo Skytree mascots Sorakara and Hello Kitty, plus a special appearance by Kumamoto Prefecture’s popular mascot Kumamon. (Image source: http://www.tokyo-skytree.jp)
2013 Tourism Mascot Carnival – Celebrating Together
Beyond Tokyo Skytree energizing Tokyo’s tourism scene, ambassadors promoting tourism across Japan are also gathering to celebrate. Mascots from all over Japan are competing to boost their local tourism appeal. The carnival will take place at four locations: Ohkawa River Waterfront Park, Asakusa Street, the 1st floor of Tokyo Skytree Town, and SORAMACHI Plaza. There will also be a stamp rally, where collecting all four stamps earns you a souvenir.
The 2013 Tourism Mascot Carnival features a stamp rally with prizes. (Image source: http://www.tokyo-skytree.jp)
Tokyo Fireflies – A Nighttime Water Galaxy Spectacle
Last year’s Tokyo Fireflies event attracted over 370,000 visitors, and this year’s edition coincides with the first anniversary of Tokyo Skytree’s opening. It will be held on Saturday, May 25, with expectations to surpass last year’s attendance. Dubbed the “Symphony of Light,” the event will release 100,000 solar-powered LED lights into the Sumida River. These glowing LED lights, resembling fireflies, are called “Prayer Stars®.” From 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., they will float along the river between Sakura Bridge and Azuma Bridge, creating a galaxy-like nighttime scene that pairs perfectly with Tokyo Skytree’s special evening illumination—an enchanting spectacle not to be missed.
A super romantic night view over water and sky debuts at 7 p.m. on May 25 on the Sumida River. (Image source: Tokyo Firefly Event Official Website)
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