Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue is a premier Tokyo photography location known for its golden autumn leaves. During the peak season in late November, the street attracts an array of supercars and classic vehicles. This creates a unique opportunity to photograph high-end automotive design against a backdrop of brilliant yellow trees.
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On November 17, 2023, I visited Jingu Gaien Avenue to check out its ginkgo trees. They looked pretty good, but I thought if I went one more time, I could get better photos. So, ten days later, I went again. This time, it was on a weekend, which was a first for me. I saw a completely different place and I also saw something very special.
An impromptu supercar show
The ginkgo trees weren’t the only spectacle. Anyone who was there enjoyed an impromptu car show. An endless parade of high-end sports vehicles created a festival atmosphere. Porsches, Ferraris, and Lamborghinis were a dime a dozen. A couple of Rolls-Royces popped in for a look, too.
Many of these cars had huge engines. A Lamborghini Anija (a highly exclusive Tokyo automotive tuning and customization brand) with its enormous V12 engine cruised along with a throaty rumble. They drove to the traffic barrier, turned around, and headed out. Some of them hit the accelerator to speed them along, which drew heads.
The Coppa di Tokyo Rally
Jingu Gaien also served as a checkpoint for the Coppa di Tokyo (which I eventually photographed in 2024). This rally can have about 100 classic European and American vehicles. If this event falls during the ginkgo tree season (so check official calendars) you’ll be in for a treat.
A final burst of autumn gold
Everyone, cars included, seemed happy. Standing there, I knew the golden leaves were on their last legs, a final, brilliant burst of defiance against the coming winter. Within a week, the yellow would be completely gone, and the avenue would fall quiet again, until for the next spectacle. I have to admit though, the classic cars made it special.
Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue visiting tips
Best time to visit: The leaves are usually at their peak in late November to early December. Weekends are very crowded but have a festival atmosphere.
Getting there: The closest stations are Gaienmae Station (Ginza Line) or Aoyama-itchome Station (Ginza, Hanzomon, Oedo Lines).
Pedestrian mall: The street is often closed to traffic on weekends during peak season, but check official sources for the latest schedule.
Car photography: The trees cover the road and cars in shadow in the early and late parts of the day. The sun will be higher, providing more light.
Have you ever been to Jingu Gaien in autumn? If you have, let me know in the comments below. What supercars did you see? If you’d like to see more cars, read [Tokyo Auto Salon: A Photo Guide to Japan’s Custom Car Show].
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