Do you know the word, taphophile? It means individuals who have an appreciation for cemeteries, gravestones, and the art, culture, and stories they represent. Another word to describe them is tombstone tourist, which seems less confronting. If you are one of those, Tokyo is one of the best places in the world to be. Being…
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. See my full disclosure here. Photographers need backpacks that can comfortably and safely carry thousands of dollars’ worth of gear. The Lowepro Pro Trekker BP 350 AW II promises to be that solution for serious hobbyists and professionals. After putting it to the test since 2021,…
In neon-lit Tokyo, long-exposure photography is very popular. If you want to learn how the technique is done, read [How to Take Long-Exposure Photographs: A Beginner’s Guide]. But you can read on now and see how I applied it in this article. Surrounded by maids and cosplayers, Akihabara’s colossal “fantasy fortress” is one of my…
In the concrete canyons of Shinjuku, surrounded by towering skyscrapers and the endless rush of Tokyo life, you can find LOVE. It’s not in a quiet café or a moonlit park, but standing bold and bright in front of the Shinjuku I-Land Tower. This iconic red sculpture, simply titled “LOVE,” is the work of American…
Imagine stepping off a bustling Tokyo street and finding yourself in front of a 17th-century English manor. This isn’t a film set; it’s the Kyu-Iwasaki Gardens, a stunning time capsule of Meiji-era opulence. The famed British architect Josiah Conder designed it for the founder of Mitsubishi. This estate is a treasure trove for photographers and…
Discover Tokyo Station’s domed ceilings. We reveal their hidden history, the secrets of Zodiac animals, & photography tips for these architectural marvels.
Have you seen those jaw-dropping, kaleidoscopic photos from Tokyo that seem to defy reality? Chances are, they were taken at the mesmerizing entrance designed by Hiroshi Nakamura to the Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Omokado. This isn’t just a shopping center; it’s an architectural marvel and a photographer’s playground. As you ascend the escalator, you’re transported into…
I knew after my first visit that Keihinjima Tsubasa Park was an excellent spot for plane spotting. Why? Its prime location, incredibly close to Haneda Airport, made it a perfect vantage point. While my day wasn’t flawless, I left with the certainty that I would return to photograph the airliners that grace the skies over…
Have you ever pointed your camera at a sport you knew nothing about? That was me, stepping into the world of futsal for the first time in 2021. It was a thrilling, fast-paced challenge that pushed my skills in unexpected ways. Thanks to the welcoming folks at Futsal Tokyo Meetup, who kindly granted me access…
At the heart of Tokyo lies a scene that perfectly captures the city’s soul: the historic Zojoji, towered over the iconic Tokyo Tower. More than just a beautiful landmark, the temple serves as a bridge between Japan’s shogunate past and its dynamic present. This guide will walk you through its most photogenic spots, share some…
Fujinon XF 55-200mm f/3.5-4.8 Review: It’s a fantastic all-around lens, but what are its compromises? Is it right for you? Learn more here.
Have you ever wondered how photographers capture stunning, colorful light trails in night cityscapes? The technique is called long-exposure photography. This guide will teach you how to make your own by looking at the gear and camera settings you need. Long-exposure photography camera gear First, stability is the name of the game. Your camera’s shutter…
I’ve often found Tokyo’s architecture to be dominated by concrete, steel, and glass boxes. However, Harajuku is leading a change, with a wave of interesting and innovative designs. Here are ten buildings along or near Omotesando that showcase this architectural evolution. Omotesando Keyaki Building This might be my favorite piece of Harajuku architecture. Concrete and…
Explore Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo. A complete photographer’s guide to cherry blossoms, the Mitama Festival, Yushukan museum & travel tips for visitors.
Are you searching for the best Tokyo photo spots? The Hachitama Observatory is the place for you with superb panoramic views of Tokyo Bay, the Rainbow Bridge, and Tokyo Tower. The observatory is atop the Fuji TV headquarters building in Odaiba, and it is a dream for photographers seeking a fresh perspective on the city….
In a city guarded by giant robots and occasionally terrorized by Godzilla, you might think you’ve seen it all. But venture away from the neon-drenched tourist hubs into the charming neighborhood of Sangenjaya, and you’ll find another titan hiding in plain sight. King Kong is perched majestically above a Family Mart convenience store. Meet King…
Nezu Shrine commands a quiet confidence in a city known for its kinetic energy. It may not possess the global name recognition of other Tokyo heavyweights, but the atmosphere here more than compensates for the lack of crowds. Two things define this location: the history, which is palpable, and the seasonal explosion of color during…
The roar of a jet engine has a way of commanding attention. While I have been an aviation enthusiast for as long as I can remember, I realized in 2021 that I had never actually attempted to capture jetliners with a camera. Well, I shot military aircraft at Iruma Air Base Open Day in 2019,…
Tucked away in the modern cityscape of Akasaka, Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin is a spiritual oasis guarded by an army of stone foxes. While other temples might have a handful of these divine messengers, this one is home to a staggering collection of what feels like a thousand. For photographers and curious travelers, it’s a…
This article was first published on the now defunct Around Tokyo website in 2017. It was updated in 2026 with current location tips for visiting photographers. I photographed my first professional model in 2017. It would be my first stop to become a full-time photographer. While it didn’t go as planned, it was the perfect…