Tokyo Skytree’s Elevator Stops, Trapping 20 People, Police Say

The Yomiuri Shimbun

23:23 JST, February 22, 2026 (updated at 01:00 JST, Feb. 23)

An elevator stopped about 30 meters above ground, trapping 20 people inside at Tokyo Skytree in Sumida Ward, Tokyo, on Sunday evening, police said.

There are reports that the elevator suddenly plummeted at one point. Rescue operations are underway by police and the Tokyo Fire Department.

The 20 men and women on board include two children. There were no reports of injuries.

According to the operating company, two of the four elevators connecting the fourth floor to Tembo Deck, the observation deck 350 metres above ground, suddenly stopped. One of the elevators was unmanned, while passengers were on board the other, which was descending.

Due to the trouble, a total of about 1,200 people were temporarily stranded on Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria, 450 meters above ground.