10 Best Spots to Photograph in Tokyo for First-Time Visitors

Best Photo Spots You shouldn’t Miss in Tokyo

In past years, photographing has been the biggest aim for many travellers and it’s a part of trip to post photos of yourself and famous landmarks on social media. Tokyo has numbers of iconic sights and it’s one of the best cities in the world for photographers.

Out of 100s landmarks in the city, which ones are “must-visit” and most recognisable especially for first timers??

If you are travelling to Tokyo for the first time and wanna impress your friends by your photos without saying “I’ve been to Tokyo!”, here are 10 best spots to take photos in the city 😉


1. Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Shibuya Scramble Crossing is the most remarkable spots to present “Megalopolis Tokyo” with thousands of people in crowds passing the junction surrounded by neon lights. There are several great spots to photograph this world’s most famous crossing in Shibuya area. More info: 5 Best Shibuya Crossing Photo Spots

Map: https://goo.gl/AyLfhK

2. Asakusa Sensoji

When you think about Japan, what’s the first thing you’d imagine? Asakusa Sensoji temple is the place to represent “The authentic Japan” in Tokyo, with a gigantic red lantern, historical temple and pagoda, and rickshaws. More info: A Perfect Guide to Tokyo’s Historical Capital ASAKUSA

Map: https://goo.gl/Tpbfuf

3. Tokyo Skytree

The newest landmark in Tokyo, Tokyo Skytree is one of top attractions in the city since opening in 2012. The tower looks brilliant from distance, as well as the view from its observatories which located at 350 and 450 m and are obviously some of the highest in the world.

Map: https://goo.gl/jmi3wc

4. Shinjuku Kabukicho

If you are looking for a place to photograph at night, this is the best place. The district is known as “the place never asleep” and gets brighter and more lively as a night goes deeper.

Map: https://goo.gl/DUjgHp

5. Metropolitan Government Building

Tokyo has numbers of skyscrapers, and especially Shinjuku is the great area to enjoy the stunning skyline. Metropolitan Government Building is one of the most well designed building in Tokyo, and also has “FREE” observatories to view the city from 45th floor (202 m high). More info: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Buildings

Map: https://goo.gl/C7FQeE

6. Harajuku Tokyu Plaza

The Mecca of Kawaii, Harajuku has numbers of photogenic spots such as trendy cafes, sweets and boutiques. The fashion building, Tokyu Plaza’s entrance designed as a kaleidoscope is where most instagrammers can’t just ignore.

Map: https://goo.gl/oa65Hu

7. Tokyo Tower

Arguably, Tokyo Tower has been the city’s best landmark for many decades, and it always will be. Even after the new icon Tokyo Skytree’s opening, this 59 year-old tower stands still and is favourites for many of us. Check more info: Where is the Best Place to See Tokyo Tower??

Map: https://goo.gl/YZ1B4F

8. Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine is the most visited shrines in Tokyo, which was built in 1920 as a dedication to the Emperor Meiji and the Empress Shoken. You wouldn’t be able to resist taking photos of this magnificent wooden Torii gate which stands at the entrance of the shrine.

Another popular photo spot at Meiji Shrine is the Sake Barrel which line beautifully at the mid way of the approach to the shrine’s main hall. The colourful Sake barrels are donated by local sake brewers.

Map: http://bit.ly/2T4QThy

9. Nakagin Capsule Tower <<Permanently Closed>>

This eccentric building, designed by architect Kisho Kurokawa, is known for its appearance on the famous movie “Wolverine”. In case many of viewers thought the building was fake, yes, it was real and had been in Ginza area for over 45 years for residential and office uses. However, the history of Nakagin Capsule Tower building ended in 2022 as it was sadly demolished due to deterioration.

Map: https://goo.gl/dFz29C

10. Rainbow Bridge

Every beautiful cities has iconic bridge, isn’t it? Rainbow Bridge is the large suspension bridge connecting Tokyo’s mainland and Odaiba area. Especially , the view of the bridge and Tokyo Bay from Odaiba side at night is most recommended!

Map: https://goo.gl/Vo9yGE


Have you enjoyed my list?? If you are totally new to Tokyo, I highly recommend you to follow this list to photograph 🙂 If you are looking for more cool and unique photo spots in Tokyo, you’d enjoy reading these articles, too!

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Written by

"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Spent around a decade by living and travelling across the world and currently reside in Japan working as a social media writer for Japan Web Magazine 💻 I spend my days by researching and discovering new places and hidden gems for my next journey, and write articles based on my knowledge, interests and travel experiences. I hope you find my stories helpful to plan your trip and have a wonderful time in Japan 🌈