Nothing can quite prepare you for the sheer size and dazzling pace of Tokyo, the world’s most populous metropolis. I have been lucky enough to visit quite a few Asian cities over the last two years, but I can still vividly recall the moment I entered the Tokyo subway for the first time in November 2015. Finally I had found a place where people actually wait in orderly lines to get into the trains! As I hopped on and off the subway to explore the city’s vast landscape, I just couldn’t stop taking pictures. Here are seven of my favourite photo spots in Tokyo you might want to check out as well.
1. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower
To get a sense of the staggering size of Japan’s capital, start your trip with a visit to Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, a 54-story skyscraper that offers some of the best 360 degree city views of Tokyo. I went up there at different times of the day, under different weather conditions, and I never ran out of inspiration. It can get busy at night, but not overly crowded. Make sure to bring a telelens – there are just so many details to explore!
2. Tokyo International Forum
If you’re into modern architecture, Tokyo International Forum is definitely worth a visit. Tokyo’s first convention and art center has a giant lobby, a spectacular glass atrium, and lots of lines and patterns for you to relish in.
3. Harajuku Shopping Mall
Who said shopping was boring? Harajuku Shopping Mall has a mind-boggling entrance that consists of a kaleidoscope of mirrors. If you want to reflect on consumerism in our modern world, this is the place to go to.
4. Shinjuku Gyoen National Park
Shinjuku Gyoen National Park offers a welcome break from the frenzy of Tokyo’s streets. It is particularly beautiful in autumn as the leaves turn colour, although I can imagine that the park offers some wonderful sights during cherry blossom season as well.
5. Rainbow Bridge
Connecting the center of Tokyo with the island of Odaiba, Rainbow Bridge is Tokyo’s iconic suspension bridge that is colourfully illuminated at night. It’s a 798 meter walk across the bridge, and there are some interesting photo opportunities along the way.
6. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Although I preferred Roppongi Hills Mori Tower (see #1 on this list), Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building has no lack of spectacular views either. Unlike Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, access to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is free – making it a good alternative if you’re travelling on a tight budget.
7. Shibuya
No list of Tokyo photo spots would be complete without mentioning Shibuya, the city’s most famous shopping and entertainment area. It’s crazy, it’s frenetic, and it’s an assault on the senses. But that’s exactly what makes it a must-see for every photographer.
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Great post (and photos!) – thanks for sharing.
Excellent shots! Can never get enough of Tokyo 🙂