Top Instagram Worthy Spots in Shinjuku
Best Photography Spots in Shinjuku area, Tokyo
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Looking for great photo spots in Tokyo? If you are into photography or simply love to take Instagram-worthy photos, Tokyo will never let you down. Shinjuku is one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Tokyo, and many spots are recommended for photography. From retro Izakaya alleys to vivid neon lights, here are the top 10 photography spots in the Shinjuku area you shouldn’t miss!
If you need a general guide for the Shinjuku area, check out our All-in-One Guide to Shinjuku.
*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.
1. Omoide Yokocho: Retro Alley Vibes and Lantern-Lit Drama
Omoide Yokocho (思い出横丁) is a narrow street where a number of small Izakaya (Japanese gastropub) are lined. Visitors can experience authentic Japanese-style drink culture in this retro and smoky alley, which also attracts photographers from all around the world today.
Recommended photo tips:
- Timing: Visit during early evening on weekdays to avoid heavy crowds.
- Shooting: A zoom lens can help compress the alley’s lights and people into a tight shot. Stand at the narrow entrance to capture the depth of the alleyway.
More info:
2. Golden Gai: Post-War Charm with Neon Accents
Along with Omoide Yokocho, Golden Gai (新宿ゴールデン街) is also a popular drinking alley in the Shinjuku area. Around 300 tiny and cozy bars line the street with rustic shop displays and neon lights in the post-war atmosphere.
Recommended photo tips:
- Timing: Evenings after 6:30 PM offer vibrant street scenes, but be mindful of increasing crowds.
- Etiquette: Photography is generally discouraged; if you do take photos, do so discreetly and avoid capturing patrons without consent.
- Composition: Focus on the unique architecture and narrow alleys, preferably during quieter hours.
More info:
3. Kabukicho: Vibrant Nightlife and Neon Streets
The biggest red light district in Japan, Kabukicho (歌舞伎町) is where hundreds of bars, Izakayas, and nightlife entertainment facilities are located, and it’s famous for its flashy neon lights at night.
Recommended photo tips:
- Timing: Nighttime for vibrant neon lights.
- Shooting: Use a tripod for long exposures to capture light trails. Shoot from the entrance archway for a dynamic perspective.
More info:
4. Samurai Restaurant Time: Theatrical Dining Experience
One of the most popular tourist spots in Tokyo, the one and only Samurai Restaurant Time (previously known as Robot Restaurant) is located in the Kabukicho area in Shinjuku. After initially closing down in 2021, it made a comeback and reopened its doors in the same spot in Shinjuku in 2023.
After some technical issues, the venue rebranded in October 2023 as Samurai Restaurant Time, showcasing an action-packed entertainment show with energetic dance, uptempo music, and neon lights. If you wanted to visit Robot Restaurant, Samurai Restaurant is a great alternative, with a unique, vibrant, and crazy entertainment offer in the heart of Tokyo!
<<Get 8% OFF Shinjuku Samurai Restaurant Time tickets here!>>
Review: Samurai Restaurant to Open in Shinjuku
Recommended photo tips:
- The show is non-stop action from beginning to end. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze action. A mid-range zoom lens (24-70mm) allows flexibility. If camera modes allow it, take advantage of servo autofocus for moving subjects and continuous shooting mode.
5. 3D Cat Billboard: Eye-Catching Digital Display
The mesmerizing 3D cat billboard in Shinjuku has recently become a popular photo spot in Tokyo among tourists and a well-known meeting place. The gigantic cat with super realistic movement can be found in front of the east exit of Shinjuku Station.
Recommended photo tips:
- Timing: Daytime for optimal lighting.
- Position yourself directly in front for the best 3D effect. A wide-angle lens captures the surrounding context.
6. Sanagi Shinjuku: Artistic Food Court Under the Tracks
Sanagi Shinjuku (サナギ新宿) is a food court/event space located under the train tracks at the southeast gate of Shinjuku Station. Since its opening, it instantly became a popular spot for its colourfully decorated interior.
Recommended photo tips:
- Timing: Evenings when interior lights enhance colors.
- Capture the vibrant decor and lanterns. A 50mm lens works well for portraits and details.
7. Godzilla Head: Iconic Monster Overlooking the City
The statue of Godzilla’s head lies on top of Shinjuku Gracery Hotel, a.k.a. the Godzilla Hotel, which is located right at the heart of the Kabukicho district. If you decide to book a room at the hotel, you’ll be able to get an even closer look!
<<Book “Hotel Gracery Shinjuku” at the best rate!!>>
Recommended photo tips:
- Shoot from the street level for a dramatic upward angle. Use a telephoto lens to isolate the head against the sky.
8. LOVE: Bold Typography in Urban Setting
The LOVE sculpture, created by American artist Robert Indiana, is a striking piece of pop art, is located in front of the Shinjuku I-land Tower. Its vibrant color contrasts sharply with the subdued colors of the surrounding office buildings, making it a favored photo spot. This iconic red installation, featuring the word “LOVE” with a tilted “O,” has also become a popular spot for both tourists and locals as a meeting point.
Recommended photo tips:
- Experiment with framing the sculpture from different angles. A wide-angle lens can capture the sculpture and the surrounding buildings.
 Access |
5-min walk from Nishi-shinjuku station |
|---|---|
 Official Website |
https://www.shinjuku-i-land.jp/art/ |
9. Metropolitan Government Building: Panoramic City Views
One of the most popular spots to visit in Tokyo, chosen by multiple travel websites, including Tripadvisor. The Metropolitan Government Building (東京都庁舎) itself is a great photo object, but its FREE observation deck also offers an amazing scenic view of Shinjuku and the neighbourhoods from the top.
Recommended photo tips:
- Timing: Clear days for distant views. Visit in the afternoon, close to sunset time,e to get both daytime and nighttime images.
- Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare. A telephoto lens helps capture distant landmarks like Mount Fuji.
More info:
10. MODE GAKUEN Cocoon Tower: Futuristic Architectural Marvel
Shinjuku Station’s West Gate area has a number of cool skyscrapers. The Cocoon Tower is a 204 m high 50-story building dedicated as an educational facility for three schools: Tokyo Mode Gakuen (fashion vocational school), HAL Tokyo (special technology and design college), and Shuto Iko (medical college).
Recommended photo tips:
- Timing: Daytime for architectural details.
- Shoot from a low angle to emphasize the building’s unique shape. A wide-angle lens captures the full height.
11. Yasuyo Building: Shinjuku’s Hidden Architectural Gem
Yasuyo Building (安与ビル) is a uniquely shaped commercial building that stands next to the eastern gate of Shinjuku Station. It was built in 1969, and the famous long-established Japanese restaurant “Kakiden” is located on the 6th to 9th floors of the building.
Recommended photo tips:
- Timing: Evening hours are ideal when the building’s interior lights illuminate its unique structure, creating a striking contrast against the night sky.
- Using a tripod can help achieve sharp images during low-light conditions.
Not good at taking photos? Consider hiring a professional photographer to capture amazing moments that will serve as wonderful memories of your trip! ▶︎Book a Street Photoshoot By Night In Shinjuku
How did you like my list of 10 Instagram-worthy spots in the Shinjuku area of Tokyo? This area is especially recommended for visits at night when the skyscrapers and streets are beautifully illuminated with colorful neon lights! If you enjoy photography, you might also find the articles linked below to be interesting!
Written by
"The world is my oyster." As a dedicated globetrotter and hammock enthusiast, I’ve spent years chasing new experiences, collecting stories, and discovering the world’s most incredible destinations. Born and raised in Japan, I’ve always had a deep connection to my roots, but my love for adventure has led me to spend over a decade exploring countries across the globe—from culture-rich cities to remote hideaways.
Travel isn't just a hobby for me; it's a lifestyle. I'm constantly searching for new ways to fuel my wanderlust. Over the years, I’ve developed a wealth of knowledge and a treasure trove of tips that make traveling more enjoyable, practical, and meaningful.
Through my experiences, I've come to appreciate not only the beauty of travel but also the importance of understanding diverse cultures, embracing the unfamiliar, and stepping out of my comfort zone. My travels have shaped who I am today, and I’m excited to share those lessons with others.
With Japan Web Magazine, I aim to offer practical advice, insider tips, and firsthand stories that help travelers navigate their journeys to Japan or setting off on a global adventure. From hidden gems in Japan to travel hacks that make any trip smoother, I hope my insights inspire you to embark on your own adventures and make the most of every moment. Let’s explore the world together!
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