Best Instagrammable Places in Tokyo: A Journey of Discovery
Japan has seen record numbers of inbound tourists post-pandemic, and Tokyo in particular has been flooded with both first time and repeat visitors eager to soak up all that the city has to offer. Japan travel content has also seen a meteoric rise on social media, begging the question, where are the must-visit spots to capture on camera? In Tokyo, well-known areas such as Shibuya and Shinjuku are popular places to explore, and act as the perfect backdrop for your next Instagram post. With that in mind, these are our recommendations for neighborhoods and landmarks you should visit to capture iconic shots of Tokyo!
Harajuku
Besides being a great shopping area, especially for streetwear enthusiasts, Harajuku offers a wealth of spots for a good photoshoot. Omohara Forest outside Starbucks on the sixth floor of Tokyu Plaza has beautiful greenery and multiple spots to snap a picture, whether it be next to the waterfall or against the glass wall overlooking the streets of Harajuku. Another great spot is the entrance to Tokyu Plaza, which features an array of mirrors that make for unforgettable, kaleidoscopic pictures. Otherwise, check out Cat Street or Urahara—the back alleys of Harajuku—for narrow alleys filled with store fronts and small coffee shops. Why not wear your latest purchase for your shots around the area?
Shibuya Crossing
This next location makes it nearly impossible to avoid the crowd—and that’s part of the charm! The Shibuya Scramble is the iconic intersection you’ve likely seen all over Instagram. It’s a bustling hotspot where hundreds of people cross at once, creating a metropolitan, lively backdrop. With the crossing time lasting only about 30 seconds, you might need to make a few trips back and forth to capture that perfect shot. Don’t worry—it’s all for the ‘gram!
Miyashita Park
The popular hangout spot in Shibuya, Miyashita Park is a giant shopping complex with a cool metal exterior, giving off a futuristic vibe. Thanks to the rooftop garden on the fourth floor, it’s a big draw for Tokyo youth to hang out with friends or shoot TikTok dances. There are also popular dessert spots such as bread, espresso &, as well as delicious ice cream at Kith, featuring recipes developed by Japanese celebrities and influencers. The park boasts impressive skyline views of Shibuya, and on the first floor, little streets filled with lantern-lit izakayas (traditional Japanese pubs) offer the perfect backdrop for a night time shoot!
Omoide Yokocho
Omoide Yokocho, or “Memory Lane,” is a narrow alley filled with cozy food stalls and cramped izakayas. Located just steps from Shinjuku Station, this iconic spot immerses you in the authentic charm of Japan’s vibrant drinking culture, making it a must-visit for a truly local experience. Here, you can savor grilled skewers, hearty ramen and other street food delights while mingling with locals in a lively, nostalgic atmosphere. The flickering lanterns and smoky air transport you to post-war Japan, creating a unique setting for photographing Japan.
Tokyo’s many gardens
Groomed to perfection, Japanese gardens are blooming with flowers and foliage. Depending on what season you visit, you can photograph sakura (cherry blossoms) in the spring, or brilliant red and gold maple leaves in the fall. Tokyo’s many parks and gardens almost demand to be admired and posted on social media, and they offer a convenient nature retreat amidst one of the world’s most densely populated cities. Shinjuku Gyoen is an ideal spot for a nature photo walk. Should you want to take pictures on the water, head over to Kichijoji’s Inokashira Park and hop on one of their iconic swan boats.
teamLab Planets
The immersive experience of digital art at teamLab makes it a hotspot for photoshoots, and as a must-see exhibit when visiting Tokyo. At teamLab Planets Toyosu, you can take off your shoes and walk through a garden full of flowers, and even calf-deep water. The museum features four large-scale artwork spaces and two gardens, and each photo taken can be as unique as the artworks themselves. Be sure to book your tickets early since it often sells out!
Rikugien and Toyo Bunko Museum
A historic Japanese garden, Rikugien dates back to the 1700s. While it’s most well known for its autumn foliage illumination event in late November, and its massive cherry tree that blooms during the spring, this garden is stunning, and great fun to explore all year round. There are many spots inside the gardens to capture beautiful photographs, and each season presents new opportunities. There is also a traditional tea house where you can sip a bowl of matcha between photoshoots.
Tokyo Bunko Museum
Just a short walk from Rikugien’s southern entrance is Toyo Bunko Museum. The primary purpose of the museum is the preservation and study of Asian heritage, but it also features a photo spot that feels as if it’s straight out of Harry Potter. When visiting, be sure to check out Orient Cafe, an affordable yet upscale restaurant. The garden and museum are most easily accessible from Komagome Station.
Roppongi Hills
Heading to the top of Roppongi Hills, you can shoot panoramic shots of Tokyo that feature the city’s most iconic sights, including Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree and even Mt. Fuji, if you’re lucky enough to visit on a clear day. You’re also close to a variety of museums, including Mori Art Museum, the National Art Center, Tokyo and 21_21 Design Sight. Be mindful of other museumgoers if you’re shooting at an exhibition, though.
Yokohama
While technically not a part of Tokyo, Yokohama is just a short train ride away and takes you to a super modern city in Kanagawa, a prefecture boasting one of the highest living standards in Japan. Besides the Cup Noodle Museum and Ramen Museum, there are lots of events held at Red Brick Warehouse, as well as Cosmoworld Amusement Park in Minato Mirai. Do check out Hammerhead, which is full of modern restaurants and a terrace with scenic water views that make a perfect, serene backdrop for your photos.
Rainbow Bridge
A vast suspension bridge spanning 798 meters that you can walk across, the Rainbow Bridge makes for a great, high-tech and futuristic photo. With a pedestrian-only promenade that is approximately a 25-minute walk, you’ll be able to see astonishing views of the Tokyo skyline. We recommend walking along the Odaiba Island side of the bridge for the best views of the city!
Nezu Shrine
If you’re not in the mood to deal with the crowds at Sensoji in Asakusa, or trek all the way over to Kyoto, you can still find beautiful torii (traditional Japanese gates) to photograph at Nezu Shrine. Overshadowed by more famous temples, Nezu Shrine is much less crowded than other touristy spots, offering you more space and time for photography. It dates back to 1705, and offers some peace among the hustle and bustle of the city. Take your time strolling and photographing your way through the scenic walking paths and immaculate foliage.
Kabukicho
For the iconic, bright lights of Tokyo at night, be sure to visit Kabukicho in Shinjuku. Rows and rows of neon signs advertise hundreds of eateries and night spots. The iconic Golden Gai alleyway shouldn’t be missed, as well as the large Godzilla statue on top of Toho Cinemas! Explore the buzzing streets to photograph some of Tokyo’s hidden gems, from quirky themed bars to late-night ramen joints. Kabukicho offers a quintessential Tokyo experience that you and your camera won’t want to miss.
Tokyo Skytree
Opened in 2012, Tokyo Skytree is the world’s tallest tower, measuring 634 meters high. With remarkable panoramic city views from either the 350 or 450-meter high observation decks, it is most recommended for sunset shoots. You can also book the SKY restaurant for priority access to both viewing platforms in addition to meals. Beyond the views, the base of the tower features a shopping complex and aquarium, providing you with plenty of options for the perfect picture.
Tokyo offers an endless array of Instagrammable spots, from bustling urban centers to serene traditional gardens. Whether you’re capturing the vibrant lights of Kabukicho, the tranquil beauty of Nezu Shrine or the futuristic elegance of the Rainbow Bridge, each location tells a unique story of this dynamic city. As you explore, don’t forget to share your adventures with the world—your next iconic shot might just inspire someone else’s journey to discover Tokyo!