Tokyo's Ultimate Guide: Instagrammable Spots

Tokyo is the frenetic, frenzied capital of a nation in which futurism and tradition come together in a swirling vortex. From towering, neon-lit skyscrapers to serene temples and riotous street scenes, phenomenal photography opportunities are aplenty in Tokyo. Take a look at the most 'grammable locations across this city, from iconic landmarks to hidden treasures, to make sure your Tokyo experience is as photogenic as it is unforgettable.

1. Shibuya Crossing: Tokyo's Heartbeat

Shibuya Crossing is variously described as the world's busiest, most congested, or most shoulder-to-shoulder-thick pedestrian crossing on earth. Hundreds of people in every light change cross the street at once. This iconic scene perfectly captures the fast-paced energy of Tokyo. To get the best photos, try shooting the chaos from a high vantage point. The Starbucks in the Tsutaya building offers a panoramic view of the crossing.

Best time to visit: early in the morning to avoid crowds or immediately after sunset when neon lights are in full swing.

Pro Tip: Long exposure will help blur the motion and add to the drama in the picture.

2. Tokyo Tower: Japanese Icon

One of the most iconic features of Tokyo, standing at a whopping 333 meters tall, is the bright red and white structure of the Tokyo Tower, which looks quite similar to the Eiffel Tower, against the strikingly contrasting blue of Tokyo's sky. Visit Zojoji Temple for a gorgeous view as the traditional Japanese architecture frames the tower so beautifully.

Best time to visit: During the golden hour or at night when the tower lights turn on, that picture-perfect view is just waiting to be captured.

Pro tip: If you want a really unique perspective, shoot the tower from Shiba Park during Spring with cherry blossoms in the foreground.

3. TeamLab Borderless: An Immersive Digital Playland

TeamLab Borderless is one of the most Instagrammable places in Tokyo-a museum of digital art enabling surreally immersive experiences. It feels like a dream, when rooms are full of light, mirrors, and projection mappings. "Crystal World" and "Forest of Lamps" will create some cool visuals that are great for your feed.

Best time to visit: Go in the morning when the museum opens to avoid crowds.

Pro tip: The extremely bright and colorful environment asks for you to wear dark-colored clothes in order to stand out.

4. Senso-ji Temple: Tradition Meets Beauty

In Tokyo, the Senso-ji Temple is the oldest and most important temple within the district of Asakusa. One must shoot the huge red lamp over the Kaminarimon Gate, just like the sublimely nice pagodas and buildings of the temple. It is a good blend of bright colors and traditional structure.

Best time: Go there during early morning when the temple is bathed in soft light and with less touristy crowd.

Pro tip: Snap a colorful shot of traditional Japanese souvenirs and street food by passing through Nakamise Street, the shopping lane next to the temple.

5. Takeshita Street in Harajuku, Tokyo-An Explosion of Pop Culture

Takeshita Street in Harajuku, Tokyo, is literally the place for Japanese pop culture, fashion, and all things quirky. This busy narrow street is famous for colorful shops, eccentric fashion, and vibrant food on the streets. Everything from rainbow cotton candy to oversized crepes is a color explosion just begging to add some color to your feed.

Best time to go: Late morning before crowds start to swarm the street.

Pro tip: Do not miss Kawaii Monster Café for its over-the-top, super-Instagrammable neon-colored whimsy. You don't get to see something this nuts every day.

6. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: A Tranquil Escape

Nature lovers, on the other hand, should head to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden for a nice escape in the middle of the city. Either with spring cherry blossoms or autumn colors in bright red and orange hues, this park will surely greet one with countless photo opportunities. There's also a traditional teahouse and beautiful landscape gardens that perfectly contrast the modernity of Tokyo.

Best time to go: Spring- March/ April for cherry blossoms or fall, in October/November for the autumn foliage.

Pro tip: Shoot the reflection of trees and flowers in the serene ponds of the park for a peaceful shot.

 
7. Odaiba: Futuristic Seaside Views 

Odaiba is an artificial island in Tokyo Bay that offers futuristic architecture, water fronts, and the best cityscapes in the capital. One can't miss the Rainbow Bridge and the life-sized Gundam statue that welcome visitors to this part of town. Panoramic views of the skyline from here are great, especially at sunset, which makes Odaiba an Instagrammer's favorite.

Best time to go: Late afternoon, so one catches the skyline at sunset and then the Rainbow Bridge all lit up at night.

Pro tip: For a different perspective, take a ride on the Yurikamome Line, a driverless monorail, and capture photos as it crosses over the bridge.

 

8. Meiji Shrine: Serenity in the City

Tucked away in a forest setting, right in the middle of the city, is the Meiji Shrine; it saves a quiet moment from all the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. With enormous wood torii gates and serene walking paths with imposing trees in every direction, this photographically pretty shrine is sure to be at its most peaceful.

Best time to go: early morning in order to experience the tranquility of the shrine and capture it without too many visitors.

Pro tip: If you happen to visit at an opportune time, you may catch a glimpse of a traditional Shinto wedding procession, which is just the perfect and classic shot you might have wanted.

 

9. Hie Shrine Torii Tunnel: A Hidden Gem 

While most people go to Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, the tunnel of Hie Shrine's torii gates, located in Akasaka, is infinitely less crowded. These lines of bright red torii gates create an amazing tunnel that is photo-worthy on all accounts, not to mention just plain magical and tranquil.

Best time to go: early morning, to avoid crowds and capture the gates in soft light.

Pro tip: Stand at the entrance of the tunnel to frame a shot that dramatically emphasizes perspective and depth. Using a medium-to-wide-angle lens will work wonders here.

 

10. Nakameguro River: The Perfect Cherry Blossom Spot

If you happen to travel to Tokyo during this time of the year, when the cherry trees are in bloom, Nakameguro River is one of the best places to admire the sakura. Along the river, several cherry trees are lined up and draw a beautiful, pink arc above it. In the evening, the blossoms are illuminated, which creates an extraordinary atmosphere when taking pictures.

Best time to visit: During afternoon or early evening when the light is best, during the cherry blossom season of late March to early April.

Pro Tips: It gets even more vibrant during the Nakameguro Sakura Festival, when lanterns and food stalls line the river.

 

Conclusion

Tokyo is a city where every nook and corner houses an Instagrammable moment. From its historic temples to more futuristic architecture, the contrasts of old and new create one of the most visually stunning cities in the world. Whether one clicks on neon-lit streets in Shibuya or serene beauty in a temple garden, Tokyo has something to offer for every kind of photographer.

Make sure to go out and explore, get lost in all of the hidden gems that may be around the city, and remember to look up; you never know, your next perfect shot might just pop up there.