Tokyo Sky Tree, a new tower under construction for terrestrial digital broadcasting, reached 338 meters March 29, surpassing Tokyo Tower and becoming the tallest structure in Japan.

The new tower in Sumida Ward will be 634 meters tall when it is completed at the end of 2011. Tokyo Tower, a 333-meter radio and TV transmission tower in Minato Ward, was the country's tallest structure for 52 years.

Even though Tokyo Sky Tree will not open to the public until spring 2012, it has already become a tourist attraction.

About 100 people were on hand March 29 to witness the moment it overtook Tokyo Tower and applauded when a sign showing its height was updated to 338 meters, following the installation of an elevator section at the tip of the new tower at around 10 a.m.