World's tallest tower 'Sky Tree' opens in Tokyo

The world's tallest tower and Tokyo's biggest new landmark, the Tokyo Sky Tree, has opened to the public.

Nearly 8,000 visitors are expected to take high-speed lifts up to the observation decks of the 634m (2,080ft) tower to mark its opening today.

It is recognised by Guinness World Records as the tallest tower, beating the Canton Tower in China, which is 600m (1,968 and a half feet).

The world's tallest structure is Dubai's Burj Khalifa, which stands 828m (2,717ft). That in a different category because it's a skyscraper, not a tower.

The Sky Tree will serve as a broadcast tower for television and radio, along with being a tourist attraction.

Some people reportedly waited in line more than a week to get the coveted tickets for a panoramic view, though today ended up being cloudy in Tokyo.

AP