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  • LensTokyo - PHOTOGRAPHING BACKLIT SILHOUETTES IN TOKYO

    LensTokyo Travel and Photography Spots in Japan: Embrace the artistry of backlit silhouettes in Tokyo. Capture the city's essence through striking contrasts and captivating forms against the glowing backdrop. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Other Articles → PHOTOGRAPHING BACKLIT SILHOUETTES IN TOKYO PHOTOGRAPHING BACKLIT SILHOUETTES IN TOKYO Embrace the artistry of backlit silhouettes in Tokyo. Capture the city's essence through striking contrasts and captivating forms against the glowing backdrop. 00000 RELATED ARTICLES Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. GET THE LOCATIONS OF ABOVE SPOTS Discover amazing photo spots in Japan. LensTokyo gives you all the information you will need to capture incredible pictures while in Japan. Become a member and browse all above spots and 100+ more unique locations. Get the location details Check all spots you'll have access to here All Spots LensTokyo is your go-to travel guide for discovering unique travel spots in Japan, including both well-known locations and hidden gems. Check out the spots we recommend above and get ready for an unforgettable photo adventure in Japan. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM Shooting silhouettes is one of the major themes in street photography. By taking a picture with the background lit by a bright light will result in the person in front of the light to be rendered as a dark shape, a silhouette, but still recognizable as a person. It is a form of taking pictures of people but hiding their identity by keep the features shadowed. In pictures, silhouettes can represent men in general or humanity. It creates ambiguity and mystery in the picture while showcasing the context of the city or the area you took the picture. Remember to expose your camera for the background and not the subject so the subject in front of the light remains dark. This means you adjust the brightness of your camera to match the lighted background, and not brightening up the person in front by exposing for the silhouette. Here are some spots in Tokyo for taking street picture with great backlighting. THE LIT STAIRS There are a couple of stairs in Tokyo that are illuminated like the above picture, but what makes this spot unique is that this stairs are longer and wider than the other similar stairs. Making this location a better spot to take backlit pictures. The spot is located in a commercial building which houses many offices and is located on the south east side of Tokyo. The lights turn on everyday after dark. Below are some examples of the type of images you can get here. Adjusting your exposure to the most brightest part of the image can result in a very moody image. We exposed for the brightness of the LEDs creating silhouettes. Zooming into this picture you can see individual hairs on the heads of these people. This creates a nice halo effect on the subjects which we liked very much. THE UENO SILHOUETTE This illuminated wall art is located in Ueno. It is a very touristy area so if you are planning to visit Tokyo you will definitely will be coming to Ueno as it is one of the areas in Tokyo with many attractions. The above spot is located inside the Ueno station. The illustrations depict notable landmarks in the area like the Ueno Zoo and the statue of Saigo Takamori. This makes it a great background for silhouettes because it represents the Japanese folk heroes making the picture specific to Japan. A picture should not look like it could be taken anywhere, a good picture is one that is contextual. THE URAWA-MISONO SILHOUETTE The magnificent stained glass window was meticulously crafted by the skilled artisans of "Creare Atami Yugawara Kobo," under the watchful eye and original designs of Mr. Yoichi Takahashi himself. This stunning artwork is inspired by the characters of "Captain Tsubasa," including the central figure, Tsubasa Ozora, and other beloved characters from this globally influential manga. THE NIHONBASHI SILHOUETTE This artwork beautifully portrays the ever-changing streetscape of Nihonbashi, a lively commercial district. It masterfully blends time and space, taking us on a journey from the Edo period to the present day. With remarkable attention to detail, it captures the essence of each era, from the grand Edo period mansions and the iconic wooden Nihonbashi Bridge to the modern Metropolitan Expressway and towering skyscrapers.

  • LensTokyo - 5 NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN GINZA

    LensTokyo Travel and Photography Spots in Japan: Explore Ginza's nocturnal charm through your lens. Capture the district's dazzling lights, vibrant nightlife, and elegant architecture for stunning nighttime photographs. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Other Articles → 5 NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN GINZA 5 NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN GINZA Explore Ginza's nocturnal charm through your lens. Capture the district's dazzling lights, vibrant nightlife, and elegant architecture for stunning nighttime photographs. 00000 RELATED ARTICLES Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. GET THE LOCATIONS OF ABOVE SPOTS Discover amazing photo spots in Japan. LensTokyo gives you all the information you will need to capture incredible pictures while in Japan. Become a member and browse all above spots and 100+ more unique locations. Get the location details Check all spots you'll have access to here All Spots LensTokyo is your go-to travel guide for discovering unique travel spots in Japan, including both well-known locations and hidden gems. Check out the spots we recommend above and get ready for an unforgettable photo adventure in Japan. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM Ginza is the commercial capital of Tokyo and in turn of Japan. It is one of the most glamorous shopping districts in Japan, where almost all leading brand names in fashion and cosmetics has a presence. A small plot of land here is worth several million yen making this district one of the most expensive real estate in the world. Every day during from 12:00 to 17:00 (until 18:00 from April through September), the main boulevard called the Chuo Dori is closed off to vehicular traffic and becomes a haven for pedestrians. This makes the area a great spot for street photography. Because the area is known for its high end retail stores you will see many fashion and class conscious Japanese here who are interesting subjects for street photography. And along with high end retail stores, there are a bunch of delicious foods available in the vicinity to recharge your depleted energy before heading back out to shoot again. In this article we will cover some photographic spots for Ginza. THE SHIP There are countless unique buildings by famous architects from all over the world in Ginza, but this building is perhaps the most photogenic of them all. Designed by an architect based in New York, this building takes form of a ship or a fish. The concave ceiling and the rib like structure lets in ample light. The enormous atrium which is the main architectural show piece in this building makes this location a great photo spot. Within the premises there are many public spaces and the building also acts as a path between two busy roads which makes the in-flow of people dynamic and the space more lively. The pictures below were taken on the top floor looking towards the atrium. The apertures on the sides and the metal frames of the building make this image a geometrical delight. The lighting changes dramatically depending on the time of day you visit here. The below two pictures were taken after sunset and during the day respectively. The patterns of the shadows cast by the beams change drastically by the time of day. You can spend hours here and not take the same picture twice. One of the most photographed spots in Tokyo. The geometrical structure attracts a lot of tourists interested in architecture and photography both. THE UPMARKET CROSSING This is one of the most well-known junctions in Ginza area. On this junction you can see several roads, railways and highways intertwining with each other. The vantage you get from this location is breathtaking. You can take a long exposure with the light trails by cars making the picture look dynamic and adding some movement in the picture. The location is located on a rooftop garden of a shopping mall. Tripods are allowed and usually the rooftop is deserted making taking pictures very easy. It is also possible to photography this place during the day time. We recommend going there just before sunset when the sun is at a lower angle creating this strip of sunlight, as see in below picture, that runs across the crossing. The lighting throughout the day changes here. Adjust your exposure to the beam of sunlight and let the shadows fall into darkness. The crossing is usually busy with crowds of people passing in all directions. At night, the light trails created by passing cars is worth capturing. THE GINZA RED AND WHITE One the best ways to capture light trails is to position your camera in a way so that all the light trails go in one direction. This captivates the viewers eyes and guides the viewer into the frame. Like the above picture, the lights emitted by the cars are guiding the viewer’s eye towards the center of the picture. This picture was taken on a pedestrian bridge in slightly away from the main Ginza area. Because the pedestrian bridge is wide it is easy to set up your tripod without hindering the path for other people. Both a wide angle and a telephoto lens work great here. It is a great place to capture the hustle bustle and the speed that the city offers. A nice vantage point where you have the buildings lined up in perspective and are able to get the shot from right in the middle of a busy road. Use a telephoto (70-200mm) lens to get the shiny details of the city and of this under-pass. Tokyo at it’s best. THE SHINNY NEON LIT This location is located right in the city center. In an area famous for shopping. Although it is possible to take a picture here in the day time we strongly recommend going here at night time. This is because the lights are only turned on during the night and without the lighting here the picture is not as epic. The escalator is encased in a glass tube that shoots down towards the first floor. Inside, mirrored surfaces reflect and repeat the florescent lights that are piped along the frame, much to the delight of Instagram. This escalator’s unique points are not only the lights inside the escalator but also the city lights outside the escalator. Located near a junction in a busy area in Tokyo, the neon lights surrounding this escalator give it a flare to the picture. THE YAKITORI TUNNEL This small tunnel under the train tracks houses a couple of really good yakitori restaurants. It is a short tunnel but the worn out retro posters on the walls give it a nostalgic feel of the 70s and 80s Japan. The tunnel becomes smokey at night when the yakitori restaurants start barbecuing the meat. The barbecue smoke filled in the tunnel creates a mystical space. It is an amazing spot to take pictures especially of people’s silhouettes and blurred out lights through the smoke. Although, at this particular time of night, there was not a lot of smoke coming out of the restaurants, this spot is famous for the BBQ smoke flowing out of the shops. Making this a smokey mysterious picture.

  • LensTokyo - 3 PHOTOGENIC WALLS IN ASAKUSA AREA

    LensTokyo Travel and Photography Spots in Japan: Discover Asakusa's photogenic walls, rich with history and charm. Capture the traditional architecture, intricate details, and vibrant colors that adorn this cultural hub of Tokyo. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Other Articles → 3 PHOTOGENIC WALLS IN ASAKUSA AREA 3 PHOTOGENIC WALLS IN ASAKUSA AREA Discover Asakusa's photogenic walls, rich with history and charm. Capture the traditional architecture, intricate details, and vibrant colors that adorn this cultural hub of Tokyo. 00000 RELATED ARTICLES Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. GET THE LOCATIONS OF ABOVE SPOTS Discover amazing photo spots in Japan. LensTokyo gives you all the information you will need to capture incredible pictures while in Japan. Become a member and browse all above spots and 100+ more unique locations. Get the location details Check all spots you'll have access to here All Spots LensTokyo is your go-to travel guide for discovering unique travel spots in Japan, including both well-known locations and hidden gems. Check out the spots we recommend above and get ready for an unforgettable photo adventure in Japan. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM Asakusa is a district of Tokyo which has managed to preserve a lot of the historic elements that were present in the past decades and even centuries. Here you will not see sleek skyscrapers or big intertwining bridges. The building height is generally low and even the streets have a nostalgic vibe resembling the Edo period. Hence the walls you find here in this district and in this article all have a retro feel to them. The Asakusa area similar to the Shinagawa area was located close to the sea and hence the harbor. It’s geographic location made it a thriving part of Tokyo hundreds of years ago. Asakusa was developed intensively during the Edo period and has retained many of the city’s feel intact since then. Here are some photogenic walls in the Asakusa area. THE ORIGAMI WINDMILL WALL Located slightly away from the Asakusa station is a very old shopping street. The ambience here is probably one of the closest you can get to the Tokyo before modernization. At the end of the shopping street is this wall covered with paper windmills or fans. They are made by the traditional origami method and are bright red, making it great for a selfie. The swastika-like symbols on the top of the picture are not the anti-semitic symbols that a lot think it is. They are called manji in Japan, and are slightly different in appearance and very different in meaning. In Japan the symbol is tied to Buddhism and means strength, compassion and/or lucky charm. THE FOUR WISE FACES Located just outside a police station in Asakusa these four faces are actually an entrance to the public washrooms. They add a fun element to the grey streets. The faces are somewhat abstract and geometrical. Which will make your picture even better. Its a fun little spot located right next to a police station. Stick your head out of the four faces and start shooting but be careful not to step into the washrooms of the other gender! THE ANGEL FISH This spot is very close to the Asakusa station and is a massage parlor. The pastel yellow combined with the blue window shades give it a nice feel to the picture. Although the whole building is painted yellow, only one side of the building is worth taking a picture in front. The background and the colors at this location are definitely instagram worthy. As a photographer, you could go on a sunny day to play and shoot the shadows cast on the yellow walls.

  • LensTokyo - THE PICTURE OF LINES AND CURVES IN TOKYO

    LensTokyo Travel and Photography Spots in Japan: Capture the magic of motion with our guide to photographing blurred lines from a train window. Turn the passing landscape into stunning, dynamic shots that showcase the speed and beauty of travel. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Other Articles → THE PICTURE OF LINES AND CURVES IN TOKYO THE PICTURE OF LINES AND CURVES IN TOKYO Capture the magic of motion with our guide to photographing blurred lines from a train window. Turn the passing landscape into stunning, dynamic shots that showcase the speed and beauty of travel. 00000 RELATED ARTICLES Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. GET THE LOCATIONS OF ABOVE SPOTS Discover amazing photo spots in Japan. LensTokyo gives you all the information you will need to capture incredible pictures while in Japan. Become a member and browse all above spots and 100+ more unique locations. Get the location details Check all spots you'll have access to here All Spots LensTokyo is your go-to travel guide for discovering unique travel spots in Japan, including both well-known locations and hidden gems. Check out the spots we recommend above and get ready for an unforgettable photo adventure in Japan. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM This is one of the most photographed spots in Tokyo. The blurred lines, clean colors and the composition make this picture, and in turn this spot, a must if you like photography. The picture is taken on a train looking out of the window at the very end of the train. Because this train is automated train, there is no driver’s compartment at the front nor at the back of the train. Meaning you can either sit in the front of the train or and back of the train to take this picture. Depending on when you click the shutter on this train ride, the composition will change so you will have to ride the train a few times to nail the perfect shot. Away from the suffocating main road where you are constantly surrounded by people moving, this place can feel like an oasis in the middle of the city. Passing through the alleys, shown in above pictures, turning 3 or 4 corners you will reach the shrine. At a distance from the street noises of Ginza, in a tight space surrounded by buildings and in front of a shrine could be a perfect place to breathe, pray or space to spend moments of your trip with your partner. You will have to keep the camera steady either via a table tripod or a GorillaPod once you are on the train. The exposure is of less than two seconds. Depending on the time of the day and the direction of sunlight you will need to adjust the exposure settings. Both at night and during the day can result in epic pictures. It might help if you have some ND filters with you if you are going to shoot during the day. Like warping into a time hole, the images you get from this location are something out of this world. Reducing the shutter speed and letting the camera capture the blur while the train accelerates forward you can take a picture like above.

  • LensTokyo - THE SECRET SHRINE IN GINZA TOKYO

    LensTokyo Travel and Photography Spots in Japan: Discover a hidden gem in Ginza: a secret red shrine. Nestled amidst the bustling streets, this serene spot offers a unique contrast and a perfect shot of Tokyo's hidden beauty. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Other Articles → THE SECRET SHRINE IN GINZA TOKYO THE SECRET SHRINE IN GINZA TOKYO Discover a hidden gem in Ginza: a secret red shrine. Nestled amidst the bustling streets, this serene spot offers a unique contrast and a perfect shot of Tokyo's hidden beauty. 00000 RELATED ARTICLES Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. GET THE LOCATIONS OF ABOVE SPOTS Discover amazing photo spots in Japan. LensTokyo gives you all the information you will need to capture incredible pictures while in Japan. Become a member and browse all above spots and 100+ more unique locations. Get the location details Check all spots you'll have access to here All Spots LensTokyo is your go-to travel guide for discovering unique travel spots in Japan, including both well-known locations and hidden gems. Check out the spots we recommend above and get ready for an unforgettable photo adventure in Japan. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM Located in the heart of the bristling streets of Ginza is an Inari Shrine. Inari is a deity worshipped throughout Japan as a god associated with foxes, rice and business prosperity. There are millions of Inari shrines located throughout Japan but what makes this shrine unique is it hidden location in the midst of Ginza. The exact date this particular shrine was built is unknown but it is said that the shrine has been there from the Edo period (period between 1603 and 1868). Fortunately the shrine was one of the few buildings in Ginza that miraculously survived the Bombing of Tokyo in 1945. The access to this shrine is so bizarre and an adventure in itself. The shrine is located between 3 or 4 buildings and the only way to get to the shrine are through small alleyways that nobody would dare pass if they did not know about the shrine. Away from the suffocating main road where you are constantly surrounded by people moving, this place can feel like an oasis in the middle of the city. Passing through the alleys, shown in above pictures, turning 3 or 4 corners you will reach the shrine. At a distance from the street noises of Ginza, in a tight space surrounded by buildings and in front of a shrine could be a perfect place to breathe, pray or space to spend moments of your trip with your partner. Walking past the pipes behind and between buildings. This spot is such a secret amongst Tokyo enthusiasts that many locals do not know about this shrine too. The shrine is red so you will notice it easily once it is in a distance. A only-in-Japan experience where you find a shrine in between buildings and in busy neighborhood filled with skyscrapers. It truly is a sight to see and experience. Traditionally Japanese people will place some small food or snack in front of the shrine as a ritual. Why not try it yourself too!

  • LensTokyo - 9 SPOTS FOR NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY IN SHINJUKU TOKYO

    LensTokyo Travel and Photography Spots in Japan: Explore Shinjuku through your lens with our guide to the top 10 photo spots. Discover the best locations to capture the essence of this dynamic Tokyo district. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Other Articles → 9 SPOTS FOR NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY IN SHINJUKU TOKYO 9 SPOTS FOR NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY IN SHINJUKU TOKYO Explore Shinjuku through your lens with our guide to the top 10 photo spots. Discover the best locations to capture the essence of this dynamic Tokyo district. 00000 RELATED ARTICLES Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. GET THE LOCATIONS OF ABOVE SPOTS Discover amazing photo spots in Japan. LensTokyo gives you all the information you will need to capture incredible pictures while in Japan. Become a member and browse all above spots and 100+ more unique locations. Get the location details Check all spots you'll have access to here All Spots LensTokyo is your go-to travel guide for discovering unique travel spots in Japan, including both well-known locations and hidden gems. Check out the spots we recommend above and get ready for an unforgettable photo adventure in Japan. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM Shinjuku is probably the most vibrant district in Tokyo. It is a commercial/administrative center and a major economic hub for Tokyo and in turn for Japan. The Shinjuku Station is one of the largest stations in the world, it connects with the circular train line called the Yamanote Line so you are bound to change trains here at least once during your stay in Tokyo. With so many things to do here it’s easy to see why the majority of tourists add this place as one of their itineraries of Tokyo. But theres more to nightlife and shopping in Shinjuku. By far the most interesting place for night photography in Tokyo is Shinjuku. Coming here your fingers will probably be glued to your shutter, ready to snap at all the neon lights Shinjuku has to offer. Here are some of the spots worth taking pictures in the Shinjuku District. GODZILLA ROAD Near Kabukicho there is a street named after the sculpture of Godzilla head at the end of the street. Remember to check the Godzilla head on the left top of the hotel name Hotel Gracery. You can go up to the hotel and visit the Godzilla Cafe to take a closer look at the Godzilla head. With all the people hustling the night, standing on the road might seem a little too chaotic. Through out the day whether it be day or night, this road is usually cramped with people. The best spot to get a picture here is from a slight birds eye view where you can get a wider shot of the street. There is a special and not-so-well known spot where you can get a bird’s eye view of this street. Pro tip: Every night at around 8-9pm the eyes of the Godzilla light up red so if you want that extra oomph we recommend taking a picture after it lights up. CHINESE NOODLE RESTAURANT There’s a Chinese noodle restaurant between Golden Gai and Korea Town in Shinjuku. They make the noodle from scratch whenever a customer orders a dish with noodles. The making of the noodle can be seen from the outside through the huge winder display. Stand opposite the road with a zoom lens ready and wait for a customer to order some noodles! The red Chinese lanterns combined with the expressions of the chef making the noodles makes this spot worth going to. You can also ask to take a picture from the inside. The owners are nice and will gladly comply for photographing this guy. Order some Chinese here as a way of saying thanks! Below is a picture taken from the inside of the restaurant. This restaurant is weirdly photogenic both from the outside and from the inside. And the food equally good. THE SALARYMAN GOING HOME This one is one of our favorite spots to take a picture in Tokyo. A spot definitely instagram worthy and a spot where you are guaranteed to go home with satisfaction. The incandescent light from the entrance/exit of the subway casts a long looming shadow of the person at the opening. Darkening the other parts of the picture in post-processing it creates an interesting moody ambience. The blue neon light and the yellow ground surface indicators add a color contrast making this an amazing picture. The birds-eye view of an entrance/exit to a subway is not easy to find so this spot is definitely worth it. Pictures like these have a mood and a story to it. Something that a lot of street photographers look for in images. A man going back home after a long day at work. Imagining stories of how the person spent his day is the interesting part of this location. THE SHINJUKU ALLEY This retro alley contrasts very well to the neon lit and futuristic Shinjuku on the main road. This narrow alley shows you a glimpse of the past and should be one of the top to-visit places in your itinerary. There are tiny bars, cheap ramen joints and casual Japanese food diners where many Japanese grab a drink or snack before heading home. It portraits the old and nostalgic times of Japan. Smoke coming out of barbecue grills from tiny restaurants, old architecture and cosy narrow street give out a very traditional vibe. In the recent years this alley has become a touristy spot, hence you might see more tourists than locals here. The colors are vibrant and the street very happening, all this points combined make this a great spot to take pictures. In a way, showcasing the essence of Japanese street culture. THE TRIANGLE This location is an atrium inside a building. The building is located within walking distance from the Shinjuku station and was recently renovated in preparation for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Because the inside is slightly dark and you cannot use a tripod you will have to crank up your ISO for this shot. The design resembles a spider web making this look up very cool. Another famous spot for locals but not so known for tourists. OVER THE BRIGDE NIGHT The spot is taken over a pedestrian bridge. You will need a telephoto or mid-range zoom lens. The neon lit Shinjuku is on display. What makes it interesting is the pedestrians at the bottom of the picture, the cars running and the green train track with the bright buildings at the back, all which depict an accurate image of Shinjuku. Standing on the same pedestrian bridge you and looking at the other side you get the view below (right bottom picture). This view is also famous and can be seen on a lot of Instagram accounts. For the bottom right picture you will need an ultra wide angle lens. This is a photogenic spot in Shinjuku where you can capture the train and the road together with Tokyo’s metallic building in the background. Post modern and futuristic tower at the crossing (shown on right image). THE METROPOLITAN The lighting on this building changes from time to time. It is one of the most famous government building in Shinjuku. The place is usually busy with people during the daytime but is deserted at night. The picture was taken from the courtyard of the building which is open to the public even at night, long after the building itself is closed. There are several sculptures in this courtyard. Taking a picture with the sculpture in the composition can result in a unique picture like above, separating you from other photographers. The courtyard where the picture was taken is decorated with flowers and statues. You can try to include them into your pictures to make it more unique. Desaturating the excess of colors and exaggerating the reds creates this contrasty clean shot above. THE SHINJUKU LOOK UP Shinjuku has a lot of tall buildings in Japanese standards. This spot allows you to take a picture with four of them in one frame. The buildings are close enough to each other for this look up. Taking a long exposure can result in a nice fine art architectural photo. On the same spot, you can also take pictures like below. Theres a body of water near one of the buildings entrance which reflects the silouhettes of people walking by. The rhythmic shape of pillars add to the picture’s intrigue. The reflections capture the silhouettes of people walking past these buildings. A photographic spot where you can capture stories. GOLDEN STREET These alleys are too tight for even a small car to pass through, and they are home to nearly two hundred small bars – more than you'd find in most cities around the world. The buildings have a somewhat rundown appearance, and the alleys are dimly lit. Its not only a great spot to take street photographs but to enjoy a drink too.

  • LensTokyo - 5 FREE ROOFTOPS FOR CITYSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY IN TOKYO

    LensTokyo Travel and Photography Spots in Japan: Ascend to Tokyo's free rooftops for breathtaking cityscapes. Capture the skyline's grandeur and dynamic energy from these elevated vantage points. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Other Articles → 5 FREE ROOFTOPS FOR CITYSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY IN TOKYO 5 FREE ROOFTOPS FOR CITYSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY IN TOKYO Ascend to Tokyo's free rooftops for breathtaking cityscapes. Capture the skyline's grandeur and dynamic energy from these elevated vantage points. 00000 RELATED ARTICLES Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. GET THE LOCATIONS OF ABOVE SPOTS Discover amazing photo spots in Japan. LensTokyo gives you all the information you will need to capture incredible pictures while in Japan. Become a member and browse all above spots and 100+ more unique locations. Get the location details Check all spots you'll have access to here All Spots LensTokyo is your go-to travel guide for discovering unique travel spots in Japan, including both well-known locations and hidden gems. Check out the spots we recommend above and get ready for an unforgettable photo adventure in Japan. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM There’s nothing quite like the energy, buzz and liveliness of a large city. In large cities you can capture such a diverse range of scenes and moods. Tokyo has a reputation of being a modern city, and it does not disappoint. Millions of lights shine after the sun goes down and give you the chance to capture stunning night cityscapes. The city has arguably one of the most beautiful cityscape and skyline in the world. One of the things we definitely recommend doing during their visit to Tokyo is to view the city from up above, especially at night. Standing a few hundred meters above ground you feel the scale of the city in essence. Unfortunately both the Skytree and Tokyo Tower, the two iconic landmarks for observations decks cost a hefty price. Here are some free rooftops or observations decks to take pictures at. THE ONE IN SHINJUKU This observation deck is located on the 45th floor in one of the busiest districts in Tokyo. Consisting of the South deck and the North deck. The South deck has a better view of the Mt.Fuji, so if you want that in your pictures visit the South deck. Both the observation decks are open till 11pm making it perfect for a quick stop after dinner. Tripods are not allowed but you can get away using a small table tripod or a GorillaPod. Although the Tokyo Tower is slightly hidden, it can be seen from this observation deck. A very touristy spot and a place that is usually packed with tourists. The view from each observation deck (north and south decks) is different. But either one you go to, the view is spectacular. THE ONE IN YEBISU One factor that makes the Tokyo Tower stand out against the myriad of buildings is the color. This particular shade of orange is called ‘‘international orange’’ and was painted to abide by aviation laws. The tower glows bright orange amidst the dark buildings surrounding it. It is repainted every five years by 4200 workers and by hand! This observation deck is perfect for taking a picture of the Tokyo Tower from a distance. The observation deck is located on the 38th and 39th floor along with some restaurants. The observation room itself is small but the good thing for photographers is that you can use a tripod here. You can see the Tokyo Tower at a distance for mounting your camera with a telephoto lens and a tripod would give you the perfect shot. THE ONE IN KORAKUEN This spot is famous for its view of Mt.Fuji. Especially during sunset you can juxtapose Tokyo’s skyline with Mt.Fuji in the background. But make sure the weather is clear on the day you go shoot. We cannot stress enough of the weather conditions if you are going there to shoot Mt.Fuji. Check the weather in Tokyo as well as Fujiyoshida where the mountain is located. If the forecast shows that there will be low lying grey blanket of clouds you might be better off re-planing your visit to another day. Instead, you can use that time to photograph something apt for the conditions. You can use a tripod here but make sure to eliminate as much reflection on the windows. Using a black towel to cover the window is recommended. This observation deck covers a large part of the top floor. Hence depending on where you stand on the deck, you can see the Tokyo Skytree too. At one view you can see the roller coaster of the theme park below. You will need a 300-400mm lens to take pictures of the people on these rides. THE ONE IN SANGENJAYA Tokyo offers endless creative possibilities, and locations you can come back to any time of year. Look out for wet evenings, immediately after the rain has stopped, for beautiful reflections on puddles, or shoot on crystal clear nights where light pollution is at its lowest. Usually for cityscape a focal length of 12-35mm works the best, but is not a necessity. But using wide angle lens enables you to capture as much of the skyline as possible without having to go too far from the city. This spot is located a little away from the city center. It is the tallest building in its suburban neighborhood hence creating an unobstructed view of the cityscape. Here too, you cannot use a tripod as the observation deck is located right next to a restaurant. But you could get away with using a small table tripod or a GorillaPod. THE ONE IN SHIODOME The 46th floor of this building has an observation deck, or better call it an observation room as it is small in size. The floor is mostly occupied with fashionable high end restaurants. The view is perfect for a shot of Tokyo Bay and the Rainbow Bridge. You can use a tripod as long as you are not blocking major paths. But because there is a sill below the window, a small tripod or GorillaPod works the best.Usually after golden hour, the sky starts turning blue while the city lights start illuminating. This immediate moment right after sunset or before sunrise is called the blue hour. It is when the sky turns blue before turning black. And arguably this is the best time to shoot cityscapes. Compare the above picture with the pictures below, all taken at the same spot. The above picture was taken at blue hour while the pictures below were taken before and after the blue hour respectively. When planning on going to this spot, or any other spot for that matter, remember to plan how you want your picture to be captured. As the area got darker, the lights lit up into various different shades. Compared to other areas in Tokyo, the colors of the night life are different here. This picture was taken on cloudy day, hence the sky is not as dramatic as the buildings. On a clear visible day the camera probably would capture more of the buildings at the back.

  • LensTokyo - 5 EPIC PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN OMOTESANDO AND HARAJUKU

    LensTokyo Travel and Photography Spots in Japan: Discover vibrant photography spots near Harajuku. Capture the area's colorful street art, trendy fashion, and unique culture for lively and unforgettable shots. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Other Articles → 5 EPIC PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN OMOTESANDO AND HARAJUKU 5 EPIC PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN OMOTESANDO AND HARAJUKU Discover vibrant photography spots near Harajuku. Capture the area's colorful street art, trendy fashion, and unique culture for lively and unforgettable shots. 00000 RELATED ARTICLES Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 6 Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. GET THE LOCATIONS OF ABOVE SPOTS Discover amazing photo spots in Japan. LensTokyo gives you all the information you will need to capture incredible pictures while in Japan. Become a member and browse all above spots and 100+ more unique locations. Get the location details Check all spots you'll have access to here All Spots LensTokyo is your go-to travel guide for discovering unique travel spots in Japan, including both well-known locations and hidden gems. Check out the spots we recommend above and get ready for an unforgettable photo adventure in Japan. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM Harajuku and Omotesando is known as the one of the most stylish and hip places areas in Tokyo. It is unlikely that you will miss this place in your Tokyo itinerary when you visit here. Also known as the champs-élysées of Tokyo, this area houses many international brands and shops. So naturally this area also houses a lot of unique architecture and photography spots. While Omotesando caters towards the haute couture end of the spectrum, the Harajuku area caters more towards the youth fashion. Harajuku is known as ‘the capital of Japanese pop culture’ where stylish and trendy streets are cramped with fashionable boutiques and restaurant. Once away from the main road you enter a luxurious residential area that is popular for expats living in Tokyo. In this article we will introduce you to some of the most iconic and secret photography spots around this area. We will focus on spots where you can take portraits and pictures of your partner or friends while in Harajuku and Omotesando. Wide angle lens are recommended to capture the surrounding environment as much as possible but not necessary. 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. Position your model, partner or friend to stand in the middle of the room or up the escalator and take pictures of them! This spot is highly recommended if you are a person who likes pictures to post on instagram. It is a spot that is used by many Japanese Instagrammers and photographers. Taking the camera inside is allowed but because you only have one minute inside the room we do not recommend taking a tripod inside. The interactive displays and games are all for free. THE APARTMENT MODERNA This is a super unique building near Omotesando. You can access it from Harajuku area or Omotesando area, but the Omotesando station is comparatively closer. It was built over 30 years ago but the design seems as if it was built recently. It is used as an apartment building. You are allowed access to the courtyard which is located in front of and before the main entrance. There is a table or a pedestal inside the courtyard. Position your model on the pedestal, either stood up or sitting down, and take a picture by pointing your camera upwards with the building in the background. Like all other spaces in Japan, this space is smaller than you might imagine, so having a wide angle lens to essential to make the most out of this location. The night we took this image, the sky was cloudy. Having a wide angle lens helps in this spot as the courtyard is quite small. Taking the picture from below makes not only the model but the building look taller than it actually is. 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. 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. 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 NEON RABBIT Harajuku is a place for youngsters and a place for fashion. Much like Soho in New York. There are a number of local apparels brands in this area with cute store fronts. Away from the main road, walking in the twisting alleys of Harajuku you will find many intriguing shops around you. One of those shops is this one. It is unique and stands out because of its pink neon light. Unlike other big cities of the world, Japan does not have a lot of this type of neon signs displayed in front of its shops. Making it difficult to take a picture like the one above. Remember to take your sunglasses with you for this shot! Having the neon lights reflect onto the sunglasses making a cool night shot, remember to focus your camera on the glasses. THE WHITE LEADING LINES Along the narrow streets that lead away from Omotesando, you will find many charming boutiques created by young artists, many of them really worth your time. These small alleys feature many places to sit back and relax over a good food or drink. This spot is located in one of those narrow alleys in the Harajuku area and is a stairs that leads up to a shop. The leading lines and white wood like texture give this spot as reason to come back to. Because there are only limited lights during the night, it is better to take a picture in the day time. Wide angle is recommended but not necessary. It is an apt spot to take a cool portraiture of your partner.

  • Articles | LensTokyo

    Browse Showcasing the vibrant tapestry of Japan through our blog-style articles. We've meticulously curated content that brings together photogenic spots, creating thematic clusters that resonate with your interests. Articles 8 PHOTOGENIC SPIRAL STAIRCASES IN TOKYO Ascend Tokyo's architectural wonders with spiral stairways. Capture their mesmerizing designs and unique perspectives for captivating urban photography. 203847 Add THE PHOTOGENIC SPOT FOR GINKGO TREES Embrace the beauty of Tokyo's gingko trees. Capture the vibrant colors of autumn or the serene ambiance of spring in these picturesque spots. 91494 Add PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY IN TOKYOS HIDDEN CRYSTAL ROOM Uncover Tokyo's hidden gem. Capture its ethereal beauty and intricate details, adding a touch of magic to your photography journey. 68368 Add COOL ATRIUMS IN TOKYO AND WHERE TO PHOTOGRAPH THEM Discover Tokyo's atriums, hidden havens for unique photography. Capture the interplay of light and architecture, creating mesmerizing compositions in these urban sanctuaries. 103591 Add THE MOST INSTAGRAMMABLE OBSERVATION DECK IN TOKYO Capture Tokyo's skyline from an Instagrammable observation deck. Elevate your photography with stunning views and iconic landmarks, perfect for sharing memorable moments. 122081 Add 5 PHOTOGENIC COOL STAIRWAYS AND ESCALATORS IN TOKYO Ascend to Tokyo's architectural wonders with cool stairways and escalators. Discover unique angles and sleek designs perfect for striking urban photography. 221632 Add 5 NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN GINZA Explore Ginza's nocturnal charm through your lens. Capture the district's dazzling lights, vibrant nightlife, and elegant architecture for stunning nighttime photographs. 311122 Add 5 FREE ROOFTOPS FOR CITYSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY IN TOKYO Ascend to Tokyo's free rooftops for breathtaking cityscapes. Capture the skyline's grandeur and dynamic energy from these elevated vantage points. 156287 Add 3 PHOTOGENIC WALLS IN ASAKUSA AREA Discover Asakusa's photogenic walls, rich with history and charm. Capture the traditional architecture, intricate details, and vibrant colors that adorn this cultural hub of Tokyo. 130487 Add 3 PHOTOGENIC WALLS IN HARAJUKU AREA Explore Harajuku's photogenic walls, perfect for vibrant and unique shots. Capture the colorful murals, street art, and eclectic designs that make this Tokyo district a visual feast. 48860 Add EPIC CROSSINGS IN TOKYO AND WHERE TO PHOTOGRAPH THEM Tokyo's epic pedestrian crossings are perfect for capturing the city's vibrant pulse. Snap dynamic photos of bustling crowds and iconic intersections that showcase the energy of urban life. 87895 Add 5 SPOTS FOR CAPTURING EPIC LIGHT TRAILS IN TOKYO Capture the dynamic energy of Tokyo's light trails. Discover the best spots to photograph vibrant streaks of light, showcasing the city's bustling nightlife and fast-paced movement. 160016 Add Load more

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