Known as the stairs that move, escalators have been around for almost a hundred years. Their only purpose is to move pedestrians slowly and gradually up. But this seemingly mundane utility in our life can be designed very aesthetically. In a city like Tokyo there are millions of stairs, escalators and elevators working simultaneously in sync. Combined with the fact that Tokyo is style conscious and modern, these modes of vertical movements are designed rather stylishly. What makes pictures of these architectural elements so good is the cool leading lines they provide. The leading lines guides the viewer’s eyes into the picture and creates depth.
We particularly recommend using these stairs or escalators to take portraits of your model, partner or spouse. The pictures will surely result in some cool memories you had in Tokyo. Here are 6 cool, stylish and photogenic stairs and escalators in Tokyo. It is recommended to use a widest angle lens you have possible to make the most out of these locations. This is because having wide angle lens enables you to capture the environment and context better, hence capturing the leading lines on the stairs.
In another article we have covered 5 Photogenic Stairways and Escalators in Tokyo. Be sure to check it out too quench your thirst for photogenic locations in Tokyo!
THE OVAL
This escalator is not located in a very touristy area so it is unlikely that you would come across this place by just wandering around Tokyo. As mentioned earlier, Shiodome is not an area a tourist would normally go because the area houses offices mainly. The above escalator is built inside a station and is usually not very crowded. Because the spot is not crowded most of the times during the day, you can take your time taking pictures here of your model.
The metallic structure contrasts nicely with the yellow lines of the steps which creates a cool ambience for a perfect picture. The metallic leading lines create depth in the picture, leading the eyes of the viewer towards the oval shaped sky light at the top. Using wide angle lenses are recommended but mid-ranged lenses work just as fine, depending on your style of photography and what emotions you want to show in your pictures or film.
The oval aperture at the top acts not only as a design element but an opening to let light into the bottom levels of the building. The curvature makes this look almost like an object from out of space. Position yourself below the escalators and aim up while shooting. Capture the stark color contrast between the yellow and the metallic.
THE GALAXY
The escalator itself is short but the mirrors on the sides and the single lighting in the space makes it look very futuristic and cool. Although the escalator is small the mirrors on the top and sides make the space look more bigger. The pitch black space combined with the upward direction of the escalator make you feel like you’re venturing into space. The white florescent lights pushing you into outer space. This is a very fun and photogenic spot you definitely should visit if you have the time! It is also a spot that is used by many local Japanese Instagrammers and photographers.
This is definitely one of the most fun spots in Harajuku, not to mention the most photogenic. The building has interactive displays and games on every floor of this multistory building. Two of these displays are the most photogenic and an experience you will not get else where.
Like warping into space but slower. Ride this escalator which is located inside a building in the Harajuku area. No matter how you take a picture here, it will always turn out photogenic. The narrow space and the leading lines do the job for you!
THE BLUE HAZE
This spot is located in a one of the business districts of Tokyo. The white indirect lights installed on the escalator act as glowing leading lines which makes this picture so intriguing. The building in which which houses this location was constructed comparatively new in 2016. The design of the building is sleek and modern with a lot of glass and metal. In the above picture, the leading lines guide the viewer’s eye towards the futuristic design of the building. The blue color stands out in this monotone space. The escalator itself might not be very special but the space that surrounds it create many potential spots for photography. As you can see in the below pictures, you will find many reflections and mirrors in this space, combining that with the lights of the escalator will result in an amazing picture.
The blue hue and the cool dude make up a great moody image. Love the lights and the ambience in this picture. Because the escalators and the shiny surfaces are kept super clean, taking picture of these objects can end up being more fun. The reflections and the metallic shines make up the essence of this picture.
THE GLASS ENCLAVE
Although this particular picture was taken during the day, we especially recommend going to this spot at night. This is because the lights on the escalator light up during the night making this space even more alluring. The light and the escalator reflect on all sides due to the glass creating leading line that covers the whole frame.
Another cool escalator that is not used as much as you’d think, considering the location of the escalator. Perfect for a photo shoot cause you are less likely to get distracted.
THE GREEN GEM
Whats worth taking a picture at this spot are the colors you can capture here. The green color from the escalator and the gold from the interior of the building makes this spot a gem. Although the escalator is short so there are no prominent leading lines like the previous spots mentioned on this page, the colors are so rich and unique that this spot has made it to our list. This spot is located in a building in Shinjuku and is at a walking distance from the station. Because the spot is located in an atrium and under the skylight, it is better to go at night when the sunlight from the skylight is at its minimum.
The colors on this escalator caught our eyes. The emerald green and the gold in the background give this location a luxurious feel. Lowering and changing the angle of the camera will change the amount of light entering the camera and is always worth experimenting.
THE BROKEN REFLECTIONS
Omotesando features many cutting edge buildings designed by renowned architects from around the world. There are tens and maybe hundreds of architectural gems in this area. One of those cutting edge buildings is this building shown in the picture.
The most famous spot in the Harajuku area is this entrance to a shopping mall. Hence, whatever time you go it is most likely to be crowded. Except in the mornings right after the shopping mall opens at 11am. The only problem is that in the mornings the light is not as contrasty and pleasant compared to night. So if you value less people in your frame you should go in the morning, otherwise taking the picture at night is preferable. Because its a famous spot and there will likely be tourists already taking a picture here, you might have to wait for the perfect shot.
Fragmented glass scattered on the ceiling. The glasses and angled in such a way that it reflects indirect light from outside towards the insides of the building. The chaotic background here is an image of Tokyo as a whole. Where everything seems chaotic but in a orderly manner. An epic spot to take portraits.
