Japan is renowned for its rich culture, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking architecture of both traditional and contemporary styles. The country takes pride in preserving its cultural heritage, that always mesmerizes anyone who visits.
If you're planning a trip to Japan soon, mapping out your itinerary is key to experiencing the best photographic opportunities. With countless iconic locations to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to begin.
To help you capture stunning photos, here's our curated list of the top 15 must-visit spots:
Tokyo - Shinjuku Streets
Each of these locations offers a unique blend of Japan's cultural richness and natural beauty, promising unforgettable photographic opportunities that showcase the essence of this captivating country.
1. Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo
Asakusa is nestled in the north-eastern side of Tokyo. It is home to Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji Temple, and is renowned for its historic charm, bustling Nakamise-dori shopping street, and traditional Edo-period atmosphere. Popular photo spots are very crowded, making it a challenge to capture any nice photos. However, by exploring the area, you can find streets that offer a perfect view of Tokyo Skytree. Alternatively, if you hang around after dinner, when crowds have dispersed, Asakusa's street lights are also a great photo opportunity.
General directions:
Take a train to Asakusa Station and exit via A4. Walk 350m (5 minutes) to Nakamise-dori Street.
2. Shinjuku Streets, Tokyo
Shinjuku is situated in western Tokyo. It boasts the busiest train station in the world and is famously dense with restaurants, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. You could even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji from here on a clear day. be sure to capture dreamy photos illuminated by Shinjuku's vibrant street lights during an evening stroll.
General directions:
Take a train to Shinjuku Station and use the East Exit. Walk 400m (6 minutes) to Kabukicho Central Road.
3. Meiji Shrine, Tokyo
When you visit Shibuya Crossing, make sure not to miss Meiji Shrine. Established in the 1920s, it is one of Japan's most important Shinto shrines today, offering a tranquil escape from Tokyo's bustling cityscape. It is a popular and symbolic location for traditional Shinto wedding ceremonies. Take a leisurely stroll through its serene forested surroundings and marvel at its impressive Torii gates and traditional architecture. As the area is vast, you'll be sure to get some nice photographs with fewer crowds.
General directions:
Take a train to Harajuku Station and use the Omotesando Exit. Walk 700m (11 minutes) to Meiji Shrine.
4. Imperial Palace, Tokyo
Escape the urban hustle and bustle by spending your afternoon exploring the expansive grounds of Tokyo's Imperial Palace. Nestled in the heart of the city, It offers a tranquil escape from the urban hustle and bustle. You have options to admire the huge palace gates, and spend time at the garden which provides a beautiful view of Tokyo's cityscape. The Imperial Palace offers a juxtaposition of ancient history and modern city life, making it a must-visit destination for unique photographs.
General directions:
Take a train to Otemachi Station and exit via C13a. Walk 600m (9 minutes) to Imperial Palace's East Gardens.
5. Hakusan Shrine, Tokyo
Located in Bunkyo City, Tokyo, Hakusan Shrine is just a short distance from the Imperial Palace. It was founded in 1703, and is dedicated to the deity of Mount Hakusan, one of Japan's sacred mountains. In summer, the shrine becomes a prime spot for viewing hydrangea flowers, which bloom in vibrant shades of blue, pink, and purple. The shrine and its surrounding areas are adorned with these beautiful blossoms, offering plenty of opportunities for stunning photographs.
General directions:
Take a train to Hakusan Station and use Exit 1. Walk 500m (8 minutes) to Hakusan Shrine.
6. Namba Yasaka Shrine, Osaka
Namba Yasaka Shrine is conveniently located near popular shopping areas in Osaka, such as Shinsaibashi, Dotonbori, and Nipponbashi, making it an ideal spot to visit during a shopping break. The shrine is renowned for its Lion Head Hall, a distinctive stage used for traditional dance performances during festivals. The lion head and the surrounding garden create a serene space where you can appreciate traditional Japanese architecture and culture amidst the bustling Namba district.
General directions:
Take a train to Namba Station and use Exit 32. Walk 650m to (10 minutes) Namba Yasaka Shrine.
7. Osaka Castle, Osaka
Osaka Castle is the symbol of Osaka, and often tops the list of must-see attractions in the city. It is an excellent example of Japanese castle architecture, known for multi-layered structures and ornate designs. It was built in 1583, but has since gone through numerous rounds of reconstruction due to damage through the years. Today, the castle and its surroundings provide numerous photo opportunities, so be sure to explore every corner and capture the beauty of this historic landmark.
General directions:
Take a train to Osaka Castle Park Station and use Exit 1. Walk 1km (15 minutes) to Osaka Castle.
8. Shinsekai, Osaka
Located in Naniwa Ward, Shinsekai is renowned for its nostalgic charm, featuring streets lined with traditional eateries, shops, and entertainment venues that offer a glimpse into Osaka's past. It’s an ideal spot for dinner, where you can savor local flavors while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to capture some memorable photos with the picturesque street lights and the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower.
General directions:
Take a train to Dobutsuen-mae Station and use Exit 1. Walk 350m (5 minutes) to Shinsekai.
9. Sumiyoshi Taisha, Osaka
Sumiyoshi Taisha is located in the southeastern part of Osaka, a distance from Osaka's bustling central districts. Established over 1,800 years ago, this ancient Shinto shrine is renowned for its distinctive Sumiyoshi-zukuri architectural style, characterized by simple straight lines and absence of curvatures in roofs. The shrine is also home to the picturesque Sorihashi, a famous floating bridge that provides a stunning backdrop for photographs and adds to the shrine’s charm.
General directions:
Take a train to Sumiyoshitaisha Station and use Exit 1. Walk 250m (4 minutes) to Sumiyoshi Taisha.
10. Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto
As one of Japan's most significant and iconic shrines, Fushimi Inari Taisha offers an unforgettable day trip and hike. Nestled at the base of Mount Inari, the shrine is renowned for its breathtaking pathways lined with thousands of vermilion torii gates. Each gate represents a donation from individuals or businesses, inscribed with the donor's name and the date of the donation. For a more tranquil experience and the best photo opportunity, be sure to venture towards the higher reaches of the torii gate pathways, where the crowds thin out and the views become even more spectacular.
General directions:
Take a train to Inari Station and use Exit 5. Fushimi Inari Taisha's entrance is directly there.
11. Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kyoto
Located just beside the renowned Gion district, Kiyomizu-dera Temple is an ideal destination to visit after enjoying an afternoon of street food. The temple is renowned for its construction using traditional Japanese carpentry techniques, precise joinery with the absence of nails. This method not only showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of the Edo period but also enhances the temple's durability over time. The main hall extends gracefully over a hillside, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto. As you leave the temple grounds, you'll also have the opportunity to capture a perfectly framed shot of the iconic Sanjunoto, the temple’s elegant three-story pagoda.
General directions:
Take a train to Kyoto Station and head towards the Bus Terminal via Exit 5. Take either buses 100 or 206 and stop at either Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizhu-michi bus stop. Walk 800m uphill (14 minutes) to Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
12. Hokan-ji Temple, Kyoto
Hokan-ji Temple, also known as Yasaka Pagoda, is just a short stroll from the Gion area. Originally built in the 7th century, this iconic five-story pagoda has become a defining feature of Kyoto’s skyline. Each tier of the pagoda symbolizes one of the five elements of Buddhist cosmology: earth, water, fire, wind, and void. The surrounding Higashiyama district perfectly frames Hokanji-Temple, making it an ideal spot for capturing photographs that offer a glimpse into Kyoto’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
General directions:
Take a train to Kyoto Station and head towards the Bus Terminal via Exit 5. Take either buses 100 or 206 and stop at Gion bus stop. Walk 800m (12 minutes) to Hokan-ji Temple.
13. Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto
Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine, is situated between Gion and Higashiyama districts. Its standout feature is its prayer hall, which is decorated with many traditional white lanterns that are illuminated at night. Open 24 hours a day, Yasaka Shrine is a good place to visit at any time, but visiting in the evening allows you to fully appreciate the magical ambiance created by the lantern-lit surroundings.
General directions:
Take a train to Kyoto Station and head towards the Bus Terminal via Exit 5. Take either buses 100 or 206 and stop at Gion bus stop. Walk 500m (8 minutes) to Yasaka Shrine.
14. Lake Kawaguchi, Yamanashi
Lake Kawaguchi is located is located in Kawaguchiko Town within Yamanashi Prefecture. It is one of the five lakes in the Fuji Five Lakes region, at the base of Mount Fuji. It offers one the the most stunning views of the iconic Mount Fuji, complemented by beautifully landscaped flower gardens that create perfect photo opportunities. As Mount Fuji is often obscured by clouds, there is approximately a 50% chance of seeing it clearly. To maximize your chances, plan your visit during clear weather and consider extending your stay. The breathtaking scenery and memorable experience will be well worth the effort.
General directions:
For convenient travel around Lake Kawaguchi, we recommend renting a car or bicycle. There are several rental shops located near Kawaguchiko Station. To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience, we suggest making reservations in advance.
15. Honcho Street, Yamanashi
Honcho Street is located in Kofu, the capital of Yamanashi Prefecture, and serves as a connection between the city and Mount Fuji. The street is renowned for its diverse array of shops, restaurants, and local businesses, making it a lively hub for both locals and visitors. Recently, it has gained popularity among tourists, as the street beautifully lines up Mount Fuji, offering an impressive backdrop for photographs. While its popular photo spots can get crowded, exploring the surrounding area will reveal quieter, equally picturesque locations where you can capture the beauty of Mount Fuji in a more serene setting.
General directions:
Take a train to Kofu Station and use the East Exit. Walk around 1.5km (22 minutes) to Honcho Street.
Happy travelling and posing!
Congratulations! You've now got 15 amazing places to visit in Japan.
Photography goes far beyond documenting what's in front of you. It's about expressing your emotions to each scene. Each location has its unique atmosphere and charm. From the elegance of Kyoto's temples to the dynamic energy of Tokyo's streets and the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, every location tells its own story. With these insights, you'll be well-prepared to capture photos with exceptional beauty.
If you're planning a special occasion such as a surprise proposal, anniversary, or elopement, consider entrusting the details to an experienced photographer, who would even make your trip more memorable. Do check out our tips on choosing the right photographer for you.
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