Epic Crossings in Tokyo and Where to Photograph Them

Perched atop the MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 building, Mag’s Park Rooftop (CROSSING VIEW & ROOFTOP LOUNGE MAG8) offers one of the most iconic vantage points for photographing the Shibuya Scramble Crossing—widely regarded as the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world. From this elevated terrace, photographers can capture the mesmerizing choreography of crowds converging from all directions in perfectly timed waves. The rooftop’s narrow yet precisely framed viewpoint focuses directly on the heart of the crossing, making it an ideal spot for long-exposure shots, time-lapse videos, and dynamic street photography that encapsulates the energy of modern Tokyo.

Reopened in late 2023 with a redesigned lounge concept, Mag’s Park blends function and atmosphere. The interior features curated lighting and ambient music, leading to a sleek outdoor terrace lined with clear safety glass. While the glass creates occasional reflections—especially at night—techniques such as using a rubber lens hood or pressing the lens flush against the surface can help minimize glare. Blue hour remains the prime time for capturing balanced shots, when the neon lights of Shibuya merge seamlessly with the fading natural light.

Entry to the rooftop is ticketed (1,800 yen with a drink included), and the space is fully accessible and family-friendly. It rarely requires reservations, but weekends can be busy. Whether you’re a traveler with a camera or a seasoned content creator, this rooftop remains one of the few legal, elevated locations to photograph Shibuya Crossing from directly above, making it an essential stop for urban photographers in Tokyo.

Located in the heart of Tokyo’s upscale shopping district, Tokyu Plaza Ginza offers more than just designer boutiques and fine dining—it provides one of the most accessible and striking rooftop viewpoints in the city. The building’s rooftop garden on the 11th floor is a hidden gem for urban photographers, offering sweeping views of one of Ginza’s busiest intersections, where roads, train lines, and elevated expressways weave through the city in perfect synchronicity. From this high vantage point, the interplay of architectural layers becomes a rich canvas for long-exposure photography, especially during the blue hour or nighttime when car headlights paint luminous trails across the scene.

What sets this rooftop apart is its practicality: tripods are allowed, the area is often uncrowded, and the glass railing provides an unobstructed shot of the streets below. The elevated view enhances the contrast between Ginza’s polished facades and the motion of its traffic, making it an ideal location for capturing the vibrant dynamism of Tokyo’s nightscape. For those seeking a tranquil yet powerful place to shoot urban photography, Tokyu Plaza Ginza’s rooftop is an unbeatable spot—both visually engaging and logistically convenient, with direct access from Ginza Station via underground passages.