Tokyo is a world-class city where tradition meets modernity offering endless photogenic spots. It’s the perfect city to capture memories that will make your Instagram feed stand out! I will highlight some of the best photo spots in Tokyo along with tips and tricks for your upcoming adventure!
These photos were taken during two unforgettable family vacations to Japan — one in the peak summer month of August and the other during the bustling winter holidays, the busiest travel season of the year. While influencers may share those picture-perfect shots by arriving early or using Photoshop to erase crowds, these images capture the beauty of Tokyo at its busiest, during the most popular seasons for travel.
1. A Historic Landmark Amid the Bustle
Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s rich history, surrounded by vibrant markets and the hustle and bustle of one of the city’s busiest districts. Despite the crowds, this iconic temple remains a captivating spot for both history and photography.
Photography Tip: Visit early in the morning to capture the temple before the crowds arrive. Focus on capturing the lively contrast between the bustling market street and the serene architecture, highlighting details like the giant lantern and intricate carvings.
2. Sky high City Views
If you’re after some jaw-dropping cityscapes, make your way to Shibuya Sky — hands down our favorite view point in Tokyo. Mel and I took our families there both times we visited, and they absolutely loved the panoramic views of the city. Unlike other observatories where you feel like you’re looking out from a cage, Shibuya Sky has floor-to-ceiling glass walls that make you feel like you’re floating above Tokyo. It’s definitely one of the best spots to snap those iconic city views from the sky!
Photography Tip: For the best shots, time your visit around golden hour or sunset for that perfect sky. Bring a tripod to keep your shots steady, and experiment with different focal lengths to capture both wide-angle cityscapes and close-up details. Don’t miss the popular corner shots – yes, there might be a wait, but trust me, it’s totally worth it!
Bonus Tip: Scoring sunset tickets for Shibuya Sky can be a real challenge. Mel and I tried to book them as soon as the system allowed — four weeks in advance — but even with that, we still ended up waiting in an online queue. By the time it was our turn, we got kicked out! In the end, we grabbed tickets on Klook, which doesn’t offer specific sunset times. They had tickets available about two hours before sunset, which worked perfectly for us. We took our time and ended up staying right up until the sun was about to set, so it still felt like we caught that magical moment.
The nighttime views are equally magical, with Tokyo’s city lights glowing beautifully. We opted for the evening slot when we visited with Mel’s family in December. While night photography can be a bit more challenging, don’t miss the photo spot on the steps next to the famous escalators! This activity is part of our 12 Best Things to Do in Tokyo, if you liked this activity make sure to check out the other ones that made our list!
3. Hidden in a Forest of Peace
Tucked away in the heart of Tokyo, Meiji Shrine feels like a serene oasis surrounded by lush greenery. It’s the perfect spot to escape the city chaos and snap a peaceful, natural shot. The towering torii gates, vibrant lanterns, and tranquil forest backdrop make for some of our best photo memories in Tokyo. This is definitely one of those underrated photo spots where the calmness of nature meets the buzz of the city.
Photography Tip: Focus on the grand torii gates with the forest stretching behind them. The light that filters through the trees creates a beautiful, soft glow — perfect for photos. Try using a wide-angle lens to capture the peaceful vibe. Since the place is so expansive, there are plenty of quiet corners where you can avoid the crowds and take those serene shots.
4. Digital Art in Motion
If there’s one attraction you shouldn’t miss, it’s TeamLab Planets or TeamLab Borderless — hands down, two of the best photo spots in Tokyo. These immersive digital art experiences are unlike anything you’ve probably seen before, with interactive light displays and installations that create endless opportunities for one-of-a-kind photos. We took Mel’s family to TeamLab Planets in the winter and my family (Andrew) to TeamLab Borderless in the summer.
While we couldn’t bring cameras inside TeamLab Planets, just our phones, we still managed to snap some amazing moments!
TeamLab Planets or Borderless are just one of the many unforgettable experiences Tokyo has to offer. Don’t miss my list of the 12 Best Things to Do in Tokyo Japan to discover more attractions like this.
Photography Tip: A wide-angle lens is a must to capture the full scale of these digital masterpieces. Play with your exposure settings to get the perfect shot without overexposing the glowing lights. We found the default auto settings were a bit too bright, so don’t be afraid to experiment to find the best balance for these best photo spots in Tokyo.
5. Foodie Photos in Tokyo
Tokyo isn’t just a city for incredible sights — it’s also a haven for some of the best photo spots in Tokyo when it comes to delicious food! In Harajuku, we snapped vibrant photos of the iconic colorful crepes that are as photogenic as they are tasty.
At Senso-ji, I captured the perfect shot of me holding a warm, freshly baked melon pan, a sweet, fluffy Japanese bread that’s a must-try. And don’t forget Tanghulu — the traditional candied fruit on a stick that’s as fun to photograph as it is to eat! These food shots bring together the best of Tokyo’s flavors and visual appeal, making for unforgettable moments.
Photography Tip: When photographing food, natural light is your best friend. Head outdoors or near a window to get soft, flattering light on your dish. For those colorful crepes, try shooting from an angle that showcases the vibrant layers, and with items like Tanghulu, a close-up shot will let the details of the fruit shine.
Don’t miss Omoide Yokocho at night in Shinjuku—it’s a must-visit for its incredible food scene and perfect alleyway photo opportunities check out this article that highlights 5 things to do in Shinjuku Tokyo. This hidden gem offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s culinary soul, with tiny eateries serving up delicious dishes and a nostalgic ambiance that’s perfect for capturing the essence of old Tokyo.
Did you know Tokyo is home to the World’s Largest Sushi Conveyor Belt? It’s a bucket-list spot for food lovers!
6. Mesmerizing Cityscapes and Iconic Architecture
Tokyo is home to some of the most unique and striking buildings, making it one of the best photo spots in Tokyo for architectural lovers. In Akihabara, you’ll find futuristic structures adorned with neon signs and technology-inspired designs that make for incredible backdrops. Shinjuku also offers jaw-dropping architecture, with towering skyscrapers and eye-catching facades that give the city a modern edge. It’s also home to the famous 3D cat billboard!
Then, there’s Shibuya Sky, located right by the famous crossing — the building’s sleek, glass exterior adds a whole new level of visual appeal, especially when captured from below or from its observation deck. Whether you’re photographing the buildings alone or with people, the contrast between the city’s massive structures and its busy streets is mesmerizing.
Want to explore even more of Tokyo’s iconic neighborhoods? My Ultimate Tokyo Travel Guide covers everything from must-see spots to hidden gems.
Photography Tip: Try shooting wide-angle to capture the full grandeur of these buildings. For a dramatic effect, look for different perspectives — shooting up from street level or across the crossing can add depth to your shots. The lights of Shibuya Sky at night are perfect for experimenting with long exposure shots.
7. Serene Parks Amid Tokyo’s Buzz
Tokyo may be a bustling metropolis, but it’s also home to some of the most beautiful parks that offer serene escapes and stunning photo opportunities — making them some of the best photo spots in Tokyo. We visited Ueno Park in the winter, and while the cherry blossoms weren’t in bloom, the park’s beauty still shone through. We’re hoping to return in the spring to capture the iconic cherry blossoms!
Another unforgettable park was The Imperial Palace East Gardens, where we explored in the summer heat — it was hot and humid, but the lush greenery, historic walls, and traditional Japanese gardens were totally worth it. If you’re looking for more amazing parks, consider visiting Yoyogi Park for its vast open spaces, or Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, which offers a stunning mix of traditional Japanese, English, and French garden landscapes, perfect for any photographer looking to capture Tokyo’s beauty.
Photography Tip: To capture the best of these parks, use natural light to highlight the greenery, especially in early mornings or late afternoons when the light is soft and golden. For the cherry blossoms, try a close-up shot to capture the delicate petals, and at Shinjuku Gyoen, experiment with wide-angle shots to take in the entire garden scene.
8. Get into Character for Unique Tokyo Photos
One of the coolest memories we made in Tokyo was dressing up in costume for the Go-Karting experience, where we got to choose our favorite characters and cruise the streets. We even stopped in front of Tokyo Tower for epic photos — a truly unforgettable way to capture the city’s vibrant energy.
Another fun way to add a personal touch to your Tokyo photo journey is by renting a traditional kimono. While we skipped this in the summer due to the intense heat, it’s a fantastic way to elevate your photos in serene spots like Ueno Park or the Meiji Shrine.
Instead, we opted for a relaxing spa experience at Toyosu Manyo Onsen, where they provided stunning bath kimonos for guests. Not only was it affordable for everything you get, but the view from the rooftop foot baths was breathtaking — the perfect place to unwind and take beautiful photos.
Bonus tip: The rooftop foot baths are free to access, even if you’re not visiting the spa! It’s a great spot to rest your feet after all the walking Tokyo demands while still capturing amazing shots of the city skyline. For under USD 40 you can enjoy an entire day at this spa with a delicious buffet, this was a highlight for my family we got tickets on Klook.
Photography Tip: Whether you’re in costume, a kimono, or bath attire, incorporate the iconic Tokyo landmarks in your photos. Use natural light during the day to bring out the colors of your outfit, and if you’re shooting on the rooftop at night, play around with long exposures to capture the glowing city lights.
The Go-Karting experience is one of Tokyo’s most unique activities! Read more about my adventures in the 5 Things to Do & Eat in Shinjuku Tokyo blog post.
Your Tokyo Photo Adventure Awaits
Tokyo is a city that seamlessly combines the ultramodern with the deeply traditional, offering countless photo-worthy spots for visitors. Whether you’re capturing the vibrant chaos of Shibuya Crossing, the peaceful elegance of Meiji Shrine, or the immersive digital artistry of TeamLabs, every place in Tokyo has its own unique story to share.
The best photos aren’t always about perfection—they’re about the moments that make your trip unforgettable. From Akihabara’s electric streets to the tranquil beauty of Ueno Park, Tokyo provides an endless backdrop for creativity and adventure.
So, pack your camera or smartphone, head out, and let this incredible city inspire your next unforgettable shot!