Tokyo Tower in Tokyo, Japan

Completed in 1958, Tokyo Tower is a communications and observation tower located in the heart of Tokyo, Japan. At 332.9 meters, Tokyo Tower is the second tallest structure in Japan, with the newer communications and observation tower, Tokyo Skytree taking the record in 2012. 

Tokyo Tower's lattice framework was inspired by the Eiffel Tower, often drawing direct comparisons between them. However, Tokyo Tower has become iconic in its own right for its unmistakable white and international orange paint scheme and its prominent position in the Tokyo skyline - particularly when viewed from Tokyo Bay.

Whether you're climbing the open-air staircase or admiring its orange glow each night, there's no denying that Tokyo Tower is one of Japan's most recognizable, and most featured landmarks. In fact, you've probably seen it more than you even realize as Tokyo Tower is one of the few landmarks in the world that actually has its own emoji on virtually every phone.

Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, California

Perched high on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory is one of the most recognizable and beloved landmarks in Los Angeles, California. Offering sweeping views of the city below, the Pacific Ocean in the distance, and the iconic Hollywood Sign nearby, the observatory blends science, architecture, and cinematic history into a uniquely LA experience. Since opening in 1935, it has served as a public gateway to the cosmos, staying true to its mission of making astronomy accessible to everyone.

The observatory’s Art Deco design gives it a timeless presence, with its copper domes and white façade standing out against the rugged landscape of Griffith Park. Inside, visitors can explore a range of engaging exhibits that explain everything from planetary motion and solar eclipses to the scale of the universe and humanity’s place within it. The Samuel Oschin Planetarium is a major highlight, featuring immersive shows that combine cutting-edge visuals with compelling storytelling about space and science.

One of the most popular attractions is the Zeiss refracting telescope, which allows guests to observe the Moon, planets, and brighter celestial objects during evening hours. Even during the day, the observatory’s terraces provide unforgettable panoramas, making it a favorite spot for photographers, hikers, and tourists alike.

Beyond science, Griffith Observatory holds a special place in popular culture, appearing in countless films and television shows, from classic Hollywood movies to modern blockbusters. Free to the public and open year-round, it remains both an educational institution and a symbol of Los Angeles’ enduring fascination with the stars.

Griffith Observatory construction ca. 1930s

James Dean in Rebel Without A Cause (1955)

Griffith Observatory construction ca. 1930s