Tokyo Skytree tower closed after 20 trapped in lift for 5 hours
South China Morning Post
by KyodoFebruary 23, 2026
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Tokyo Skytree Tower, Japan’s iconic landmark and one of its most visited tourist attractions, was closed for a day following an elevator malfunction that left 20 people trapped for over five hours. The incident occurred late Sunday night when the lift carrying passengers, including children, suddenly stopped 30 meters above street level. Emergency services rescued everyone safely by early Monday morning with no injuries reported. The tower remained closed throughout Monday to conduct safety checks and ensure all systems were operational.
The malfunction happened around 8:15 pm as two elevators were traveling between the fourth floor entrance and the 350-meter-high observation deck. One elevator carrying 20 passengers came to a sudden stop while descending, while the other was empty at the time of the incident. Emergency crews swiftly responded by positioning an adjacent elevator alongside the stalled one and creating a makeshift bridge using a stainless steel panel to allow safe evacuation through an emergency door.
The operator apologized for the inconvenience caused and emphasized their commitment to safety. The closure of Tokyo Skytree, which draws millions of visitors annually due to its engineering marvel status and panoramic views, highlights the importance of rigorous maintenance protocols in such high-profile facilities. This incident underscores the need for robust safety measures to prevent similar occurrences and maintain public trust.
The event has sparked concerns over elevator safety not just in Japan but globally.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/23/2026