Tokyo Sky Tree On Track to Open as World's Largest Tower in Spring 2012.

June 1, 2010 (Tokyo, Japan) — The futuristic Tokyo Sky Tree broadcasting tower, designed by Nikken Sekkei, is proceeding on schedule to open in Spring 2012. Once completed in late 2011, the structure is expected to be the world’s tallest antennae at 634 meters.

On March 29, 2010, the tower became Japan’s tallest structure at 338 meters, surpassing the height of the country’s renowned Tokyo Tower.

Planned as a hub for Japan’s terrestrial digital broadcasting, the Nikken structure also includes two observation decks. The tower forms a triangle at its base, gradually morphing into a circular shape as it rises. Structural lines are simple, appearing as slightly bulging or hollowed depending on the direction from which it is viewed.

In addition to its striking appearance, the tower is a pinnacle of safety in earthquake-prone Japan owing to Nikken’s rigorously developed wind- and seismic-resistant elements. The tower’s vibration control system employs a central column — a design used to stabilize the pagodas of traditional Japanese architecture. This system counters swaying set in motion by earthquake tremors and strong winds, ensuring a safe and reliable structure.

Nationwide curiosity has made the tower a closely watched landmark, with a constant stream of visitors and media coverage observing its rise since construction began. After opening, it is destined to become one of Tokyo’s historic icons. Visitors to the area are expected to exceed 25 million annually.

The tower is on a site that was the focus of fierce competition between more than ten other projects proposed to regenerate the area. Local residents and businesses, government officials, and industry cooperated to secure Nikken’s bid for the project.