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  • LensTokyo - 5 NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN GINZA

    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 HARAJUKU AREA

    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 HARAJUKU AREA 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. 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 is the center of fashion and art in Tokyo. It has a very young vibe compared to places like Shinjuku or Ikebukuro. Here you will find many small local brands of restaurants and retail shops. Much like Soho in New York, it houses a variety of shops ranging from trendy upscale boutiques to national and international chain store outlets. The most famous street is the Takeshita Dori, but like many other parts of Tokyo, moving away from the main road and into the small alleys opens up to a new world where you will discover many photogenic spots. Here are some spots in the narrows alleys of Harajuku where you can find photogenic walls. The walls itself are photogenic but the proper way to utilize the walls will depend on your creativity. We recommend taking a model with you to make the most of these spots. THE YELLOW FELLOW Yellow, the color of sunshine, hope, and happiness. This building’s facade is covered with a single color. The letters of its logo in black, contrasting starkly against the bright yellow. Not just any yellow, it is one of the brightest and vibrant yellows you will see in the streets of Tokyo. Making this facade and hence this building stand out against the monotone colors of Tokyo. What makes this location and picture slightly more interesting is the fact that the building stands on an inclined road and so when you take a picture, the bottom road is seen slanted. Have your model or partner walk parallel to it, stand on the opposite side of the street and snap away! THE SAD GUY Similar to the famous Gudetama (the lazy Japanese egg yolk character) this wall features a sad mysterious character. The building which this wall is built upon is a cafe which is worth the visit itself, but the wall has become famous on Japanese social media especially this character who is seen as a character that enchants or intrigues you. Surprisingly this is not the only spot in Harajuku where you see this character. There are a couple of them drawn on walls in the Harajuku area much like a local mascot. Keep an eye out for this character while you walk or shoot around Harajuku. The monotone colors and the character make it a great spot for a selfie. THE ANCIENT ART Because the art is comparatively big, at a glance it is hard to notice and especially if you are standing right in front of it, but this wall art is of a man with a mask in his hand. The thick strokes that make up each pattern in the wall art resembles that of African art. And the man can be seen in the posture of a lion or a cheetah. When looked closer you can also see that the mask he is holding is that of a cat. Located in one of the small and narrow alleys of Harajkuku it is probably the coolest wall in the area. Position your model or your partner in front of the wall and take a picture like above!

  • LensTokyo - THE SECRET SHRINE IN GINZA 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 → 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 - 6 MORE PHOTOGENIC STAIRWAYS AND ESCALATORS IN 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 → 6 MORE PHOTOGENIC STAIRWAYS AND ESCALATORS IN TOKYO 6 MORE PHOTOGENIC STAIRWAYS AND ESCALATORS IN TOKYO Explore Tokyo's most photogenic staircases and escalators with our guide to the best spots. Discover unique angles and striking designs that will make your architectural photos stand out. 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 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.

  • LensTokyo - DYNAMIC JUNCTIONS IN TOKYO AND WHERE TO PHOTOGRAPH THEM

    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 → DYNAMIC JUNCTIONS IN TOKYO AND WHERE TO PHOTOGRAPH THEM DYNAMIC JUNCTIONS IN TOKYO AND WHERE TO PHOTOGRAPH THEM Discover the beauty of Tokyo's intersecting highways and expressways. Capture stunning shots of these architectural marvels, showcasing the intricate web of urban connectivity and motion. 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 Tokyo has a network of roads that are very complicated and almost impossible to comprehend fully. This is not only true for tourists visiting Tokyo but also for some locals. Especially the metropolitan expressway inside the city that is made to run over the normal traffic, built on stilts and compromising of sharp turns, on-ramps, off-ramps, and multi-lane merges, are a structural marvel and a great subject to photograph. The intersection and junctions are where multiple of these expressways and road meet. Below are some spots where these expressways or roads intertwine for a dynamic picture. ROPPONGI SPLIT ROAD This is a junction where the expressway runs on the top while several normal roads run at the bottom and a couple of pedestrian bridges connects each sides of the road. The picture was taken standing on the pedestrian bridge which makes the expressway that spilts into two almost at eye level. You can capture the light trails of the cars at the bottom with the two expressways at the top for a dynamic picture. Make sure to take a wide angle lens and a tripod. Tokyo has an inter-city express way that elevates the traffic from the roads below. The splitting of these express ways can become an interesting subject to shoot. THE HYDRA We named this spot the Hydra after the dragon with multiple heads in Greek mythology. With so many cars and people congested into a small space, Tokyo has a system of chaotic highways that twist and twine with each other. This is one of the spots that can result in a dynamic image. It is a junction that intersects several roads coming into the city. The junction itself is within the city center so it has an easy access. Apart from the curving concrete lines, there are many lights in various colors under and around the roads which makes this picture so dynamic. Be careful when standing up your tripod because there is not a lot of space on the pedestrian footpath. It will be easier to use a Gorillapod or any other smaller tripods you can attach to the railing. This epic junction is best to see with your own eyes rather than reading about it. Try counting the number of lights placed in this junction. Mounting your Gorillapod onto the rails of the pedestrian path, tilt the camera upwards from the ground for a more dynamic shot.

  • LensTokyo - 4 PERFECT SPOTS TO TAKE PICTURES OF THE BULLET TRAIN IN 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 → 4 PERFECT SPOTS TO TAKE PICTURES OF THE BULLET TRAIN IN TOKYO 4 PERFECT SPOTS TO TAKE PICTURES OF THE BULLET TRAIN IN TOKYO Experience the thrill of speed with Tokyo's bullet trains. Snap breathtaking shots as these high-speed marvels rush by, capturing the essence of motion and modernity. 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 Bullet trains or ‘‘Shinkansen’’ in Japanese is one of the most iconic symbols of modern Japan. They were first made operational in 1964 during the start of the economic boom. Even to this day people, especially children, idolize Shinkansen as a symbol of modernization, technological development and speed. It is one of the safest means of transportation and proudly holds that title. Taking a picture of the bullet train while it is on stop, in big stations like Tokyo station or Shinagawa station, is easy. Just wait for the bullet train to halt at the beginning of the platform and take a picture. But taking a picture while the train is in action might come as a little bit more difficult. You will need a vantage point, clear of obstacles. And in a bustling city like Tokyo that vantage point does not come by easy. So, here are 4 spots for you to take a picture of the iconic Shinkansen. WHERE SHIKANSENS SLEEP AT NIGHT As the title suggests, this is where the bullet trains are run for maintenance and rest during the night. At least 5 or 6 bullet trains are in line like above picture at any given time of the day. But, we strongly recommend visiting this spot in the morning before 9am. There are more number of trains lined up in the morning, as they start to depart as the day progresses. You are not allowed to go inside the parking for trains, hence you will have to shoot the picture from a distance and through a fence. Using a mid-range lens is recommended. Both the above and below pictures were shot at f4 on a mid-range lens. On the picture above you can see vignetting occurring on the corners due to the fence.Due to the nature of the location and the subject, a dramatic looking picture will do justice. So try going here on a rainy or cloudy day like below picture. Lined up like soldiers off to battle, the bullet trains are ready to depart. This picture was taken on an early morning while it was slightly raining. Hence the picture is misty and foggy. EYE LEVEL AND UP CLOSE WITH SHINKANSEN This spot is famous for a lot of Japanese photographers who love the Shinkansen. It’s a perfect spot to practice your panning motion blur pictures. This technique is especially useful to give the picture a sense of motion. It lets you freeze the subject while blurring the background like above picture. This spot is on the 3rd floor of a building near a big terminal station. Which means you are on eye level with the bullet train and the number of trains that pass by is large in number. You will not have to wait long for a bullet train to pass by. Hold your camera in position and stand by.The above picture was taken with a 14mm lens and the below picture was taken with a mid-range lens. To take a picture like above, you will have to quickly move your camera in the direction the train is moving. Keeping the train in focus, but letting the background fade and blur. Make sure you are focused on the tip of the train or at least somewhere near it. This method of shooting is one of the best ways to learn photography and will give you a sense of accomplishment. FROM UP ABOVE This spot is also located near a big busy terminal station. The picture is taken by standing on the bridge while the trains run below it. This location is also called the ‘‘Mini Shinkansen Museum’’ by Japanese Shinkansen geeks as you get a chance to see a lot of trains run by. Because it is not a busy bridge you can easily use your tripod here. The above picture is a composite of several pictures creating a busy railroad with unique Shinkansen designs. It took an hour to shoot all the picture for above one image. AT HIGH SPEED There are some parts in Tokyo where the road’s altitude increases to the level of the railway the Shinkansen runs. Areas like this make it possible to have the Shinkansen at eye level. The the above picture is taken from a pedestrian bridge in one of these areas where the road’s altitude is higher. You will need a telephoto lens to take a picture like above. But the unique point of this spot is that because it is not near a big terminal station, the speed of the Shinkansen is faster than the other locations introduced in this article. It might be harder to keep the bullet train in focus due to its speed but it will make the background more blurry. Give it a few trys to perfect your shot.

  • LensTokyo - PHOTOGRAPHING WATERFRONTS AND BOATS IN 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 → PHOTOGRAPHING WATERFRONTS AND BOATS IN TOKYO PHOTOGRAPHING WATERFRONTS AND BOATS IN TOKYO Capture the serene beauty of Tokyo's harbors and waterfronts. Discover stunning views, vibrant reflections, and dynamic scenes perfect for creating captivating 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 Probably the first impressions of the city you get after landing in Tokyo are the grey buildings stacked tightly next to each other and the chaotic number of people moving in harmony. What you wont notice for sure are the rivers, waterfronts and boats. But historically Tokyo was built on top of a system of former rivers, canals, and streams that have mostly disappeared after WWII. Some of these canals still remain today and provide a glimpse of Tokyo before the war and a unique hidden face of the city. These canals and waterfronts enable photographers to find unobstructed view of the skyline. And besides the fact that you will have a good view, the reflections on the water will result in a more visually intriguing image. Here are some spots to take pictures of this unique facade of Tokyo. THE URA HARBOR During the Edo period this place was used as a fishing spot. The fishermen here during the Edo period were tasked with the job of fishing and taking the fish they caught to the Edo Castle. You will see old Japanese houses in line all made of wood, this area remains a reminiscent of era gone. Even today you catch people taking the boat out for fishing. The contrast between this hundreds years old harbor with the modern buildings at the back is something worth photographing. It is a great spot to capture the old and the new of Tokyo. The picture was taken on a bridge, the top picture is the view seen on one side and the bottom picture is the view on the other side of the bridge. Taking the picture at night is also high recommended as the area lights up with multiple colors adding a flare to the picture. A nostalgic, retro and unique neighborhood and photogenic spot in Tokyo. This area was an thriving harbor during the Edo period and has a long history. It is a unique sight not found in any other parts of Tokyo. One of the most under-rated photography spots in Tokyo. Where the neighborhood feels nostalgic giving a feel of Tokyo in the 80’s and even earlier. THE PEEK TOWER Many of the canals of Tokyo can be found on the south-eastern side of the city due to its proximity to the sea. This canal is too located in that area. The canal is directly connected to the Tokyo Bay and the surrounding area was reclaimed decades ago when Tokyo underwent a major redevelopment of the bay area. The unique point about this location is that you can see the peek of the Tokyo Tower from this location. The reflections of the buildings onto the water and the water body itself represent a side of Tokyo that is under-rated and often not talked about. This is the kind of spot that is less explored by tourists and yet beautiful. Tokyo has many rivers that run through the city, especially on the south east side. But not all rivers have a beautifully designed river-side with a view of the Tokyo Tower’s peak. THE IMMORTAL BRIDGE Light trails can be captured of any moving object with a light. Typically people capture lights emitted by trains or cars, but often forgotten are boats. We named this spot immortal because the name of the bridge in Japanese means immortal. It is a bridge located comparatively away from the city center making it ideal to take pictures of the city’s skyline from afar. This spot is very famous for a lot of instagrammers and photographers. It is a perfect spot to test your long exposure techniques but also your patience. The above image is a composite of several light trails made by moving boats. Because the boats move very slowly you will need to wait a couple of hours easily to capture enough light trails. You will be taking the picture on a bridge and can set up your tripod and wait for the boats to pass by, one by one. When coming here to take a picture of the boat’s light trails make sure you have sufficient time on your hands as this location demands time. THE ARCH WATERFRONT This spot is located in the city center. There are not a lot of boats that pass through this location but you can catch sight of them sometimes during the day. The red brick and the arches create a nostalgic vibe to this area and one that does not seem much like Tokyo. Be sure to explore this area further as there are many potential spots to take pictures around here. With a small cafe located inside the red brick building, there are tables set up on the river side, making this spot a potential date spot too. The building houses some local and classy shops from tailors to beverages, The layout of the shops within the building is something to ponder upon. Above two pictures are taken inside the red brick building with arches. It is a passage that connects a line of shop. The perspective you get here is worth a click. Below is the terrace in this same building. It has a romantic ambience to it beside the canal and the red bricks. THE TAKAHASHI WATERFRONT Another beautiful spot to take pictures of the waterfront at night is this spot. The waterfront is layered by a strip of greenery covered pathway which makes this spot not only a great spot to photograph but also to rest. We recommend going here at night and not the morning simply because the lights and colors pop up during the night. This is another one of those spots where it does not seem like the typical Tokyo you are accustomed to imagine. A scenic river front with residential high rises surrounding it. The place was properly designed and the lighting was fancy. Having a model stand on this bridge would be something worth trying.

  • LensTokyo - THE PICTURE OF LINES AND CURVES IN 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 → 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 - 5 FREE ROOFTOPS FOR CITYSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY IN 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 → 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 - THE PHOTOGENIC SPOT FOR GINKGO TREES

    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 PHOTOGENIC SPOT FOR GINKGO TREES 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. 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 Ginkgo trees have been used as the symbol of Tokyo due to the shape of the leaves which vaguely resemble the letter ‘‘T’’. The ginkgo leaf can be found in many places in Tokyo for example the logo for Tokyo Metro’s logo. Many of Tokyo’s parks are covered in ginkgo tree so they are not hard to find. But this particular spot is famous for its beauty aided by the golden foliage of ginkgo trees, and have been a spot many photographers flock to every fall. Ginkgo trees are called Ichou trees in Japanese and have been admired in Japan throughout history. Travelling about Tokyo and around Japan you will notice many of these Ichou trees in Shrines, public parks and roadways. In the above photography location, there are more than 146 ginkgo tress planted on both sides of the streets creating a tunnel like view. The leading lines towards the building at the back and the building itself create an awesome image worth your time.

  • LensTokyo - BEST PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN SHINAGAWA

    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 → BEST PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN SHINAGAWA BEST PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN SHINAGAWA Explore Shinagawa through your lens with our guide to its top photo spots. From bustling waterfronts to iconic trains, discover the best locations to capture the dynamic spirit of this 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 Shinagawa Station is one of Tokyo's major railway hubs. It is a mammoth like huge station with many office buildings in its surrounding. As Shinagawa is mainly a business district not a lot of tourists get out of this station although they will most likely use the station to transit between the train lines. The station is also one of the major stops for the Shinkansen (bullet train) hence making it an even more essential stop in transportation within Tokyo. The station and its surrounding have seen quite a substantial development during the last decade hence the area is modern and futuristic. The area was redeveloped to make it more worker friendly by mixing uses of the buildings, hence you will see many restaurants and family attractions within office buildings. The Takanawa exit which is located on the west side of the station houses some grand hotels and restaurants. In stark contrast, the east exit called the Konan exit houses more office buildings and headquarters. Here are some spots in Shinagawa area to take pictures at. THE SKELETON As mentioned in the introduction of this article, Shinagawa is a newly redeveloped business district hence the buildings are modern and sleek with a lot of open areas. Right outside the station you are surrounded by tall buildings, inside on of them not too far from the station’s exit is this spot. The light pouring in from the countless slits create a rhythmic picture like below. It is a spot you can take many potential images and a spot where you can spend hours without getting bored. The long tunnel-like bridge gives a perspective, while the apertures on the ceiling create a play of light and shadow. This spot is a haven for photography lovers. You can experiment with the shadows and easily end up spending hours shooting. By underexposing the pictures, you are able to get all the highlights with its details while blackening the shadows to create a moody yet crisp image. A style very popular in street photography and a trend on instagram. Depending on the time of day the angle in which the sunlight pours in will change. We recommend coming here in the morning and on a clear day. Below are some patterns that the sunlight makes which can result in an interesting picture. SHINAGAWA RAINBOW Located near Shinagawa station this spot is a bridge that runs over several train tracks. Because Shinagawa station is a huge transit station there are many train lines that go through here. Making the area near Shinagawa an amazing spot to capture trains and their light trails. This spot especially is unique cause it has a separate line above the multiple lines below, meaning you can capture light trails coming towards you in two directions which will result in a very dynamic picture. Remember for light trail photography you are capturing movement and brining in life into the image. If you stand at a corner and take a picture this results in an epic picture. The above and below pictures are composites of the trails captured within 30mins. We stumbled upon this spot while walking on the southern west side of Tokyo. Mounting the Gorillapod on to the railing, we took several pictures and composed them into one. You will need to wait at least an hour for all the tracks to get lit up by the passing trains. THE EYE This location is located near the big station and the stairs itself is very small so its most likely that you will pass by it without noticing. The staircase is shaped like an eye and because the outline of each stairs is a zigzag it makes the location even more cooler. It is one of those stairs that is located in a busy area but hardly anybody uses. Because it is located partially outside, the lighting changes dramatically depending on the time of day you shoot this. Above picture was taken at night white the bottom pictures were taken during the day. The picture taken during the night is our favorite because the orange light in the middle looks similar to a pupil inside an eye. Make sure you know what style of picture you are going for before planning what time of the day you will visit this spot. Named after it's shape, The Eye is an ovular staircase that is scarcely used. Depending on the time of day, the lighting here changes drastically so choose wisely when to visit this spot. This image was taken minutes before sunset. You can see the image has a strong blue hue to it. THE PEEK TOWER Many of the canals of Tokyo can be found on the south-eastern side of the city due to its proximity to the sea. This canal is too located in that area. The canal is directly connected to the Tokyo Bay and the surrounding area was reclaimed decades ago when Tokyo underwent a major redevelopment of the bay area. The unique point about this location is that you can see the peek of the Tokyo Tower from this location. The reflections of the buildings onto the water and the water body itself represent a side of Tokyo that is under-rated and often not talked about. This is the kind of spot that is less explored by tourists and yet beautiful. Tokyo has many rivers that run through the city, especially on the south east side. But not all rivers have a beautifully designed river-side with a view of the Tokyo Tower’s peak. THE URA HARBOR During the Edo period this place was used as a fishing spot. The fishermen here during the Edo period were tasked with the job of fishing and taking the fish they caught to the Edo Castle. You will see old Japanese houses in line all made of wood, this area remains a reminiscent of era gone. Even today you catch people taking the boat out for fishing. The contrast between this hundreds years old harbor with the modern buildings at the back is something worth photographing. It is a great spot to capture the old and the new of Tokyo. The picture was taken on a bridge, the top picture is the view seen on one side and the bottom picture is the view on the other side of the bridge. Taking the picture at night is also high recommended as the area lights up with multiple colors adding a flare to the picture. A nostalgic, retro and unique neighborhood and photogenic spot in Tokyo. This area was an thriving harbor during the Edo period and has a long history. It is a unique sight not found in any other parts of Tokyo. One of the most under-rated photography spots in Tokyo. Where the neighborhood feels nostalgic giving a feel of Tokyo in the 80’s and even earlier. THE CONCOURSE There are two exits in the Shinagawa station, the Konan and the Takanawa exits. The Takanawa exit which is located on the east side of the station houses newly built hotels and entertainment like cinemas and restaurants. The concourse to the station is sleek and modern, and contains some upmarket shops. It makes an interesting picture because of the leading line and the height of the ceiling giving the picture a grandeur. It is an excellent spot to take wide angle pictures. 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.

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