Thousands of guests have been welcomed to the tallest tower in the world as it opens in Tokyo.

The new Skytree dominates the skyline of the city, offering views over the city harbor and, on a clear day, as far as Mt. Fuji.

At 634 metres tall the Skytree becomes the tallest tower of its kind in the world.

The Burj Khalifa in Dubai, at 828 metres, remains the tallest man-made structure in the world.

As well as welcoming tourists to two observation decks at 350m and 450m above ground, the Skytree offers broadcasting services across the Tokyo area.

It took three-and-a-half years to build the new facility.

It will replace the Tokyo Tower, built in the 1960s.