So I know this is a but of a silly one and possibly a no-brainer but did their tall tower structures have stairs? I mean with the way the eves are teired they seem like very short levels, but this could possibly just be my eyes fooling me. Some also look very very skinny so perhaps a ladder? I know it may but a tough question because I know many traditional Japanese structures were destroyed in the 1920's earthquake as well as collateral damage from WWII. I'm just curious.
I answer with pagoda of Japan. It has been referred to as the five-story pagoda(五重塔), but it's not meant to be five-floor. Tower was built purpose is to accommodate the stupa(reportedly budda's bone) in the basement.So is no ladder of need. Ladder is hung only at the time of the repair.
Architecture of ancient had a good earthquake resistance. For more information please look here. (sorry in Japanese but you can see conceptual diagram)