So where should you go in Tokyo? In short, it depends! Tokyo, being the capital of Japan, has a mix of traditional and modern sights depending on the area. 

For first time visitors: 

If you're visiting Japan for the first time, there are photo spots and locations you absolutely must visit! 

Tokyo Tower

In front of Tokyo Tower — Photo by Natsumetic Photography

An observation tower located in Tokyo, this picturesque spot is surrounded by a number of parks giving you a bright and colorful backdrop to your photo shoot. 

Shibuya Crossing

Busy at all times of the day, Shibuya Crossing! — Photo 2 of us photography

One of the busiest street crossings in the world, this walkway offers the quintessential Tokyo photo. Incredibly busy at all times of the day, you can always see people trying to get a shot in the center of the crossing! 

Tokyo Skytree

The newest observation tower in Tokyo, Skytree — Photo YEWKONG Photography

Standing at 634m, the tower stands as the tallest in Japan. The Tokyo Skytree is a very popular spot for couples as its surrounding areas often have fewer people and it offers a nice modern balance to photos. We recommend going to the opposite side of the Sumida River (such as near Sakurabashi Bridge) to get a shot of the entire tower.

Marunouchi/Tokyo Station 

Beautiful shot among the Christmas illumination in Marunouchi — Photo by trickster photography

With many fashionable luxury stores in the area, this popular photo spot is a must among couples in Tokyo. The most popular time to visit the Marunouchi area is winter time for the winter illumination where streets are filled with bright colors, creating a beautiful bokeh for backgrounds. 

For anime lovers: 

Japan, especially Tokyo, has many places that anime fans must visit! Many animes that take place in big cities will usually choose settings like Akihabara, Ikebukuro, Shibuya or Shinjuku. 

Odaiba Gundam 

The Gundam statue is set to be replaced with a new one for Fall 2017! — Photo by Photrip.tokyo

Located in Odaiba, the now iconic Gundam statue can be found out in the open for visitors to take pictures with. The area is set to have a new Gundam statue by Fall 2017!

Azabu Juban (Sailor Moon)

Azabu Juban is where the popular anime Sailor Moon takes place! — Photo by STUDIO AQUA

This very fashionable area is home to many international stores and streets! In the popular anime "Sailor Moon", the sailor scouts live and work in the Azabu Juban area, and those with a keen eye will be able to spot many of the settings that inspired the show.

Akihabara

Akihabara is the home of many anime studios — Photo by STUDIO AQUA

Filled with many electronic shops and game centers, this district is known for being THE place to go for anime. Akihabara, or Akiba as locals call it, is the inspiration or setting for many different anime! 

Ikebukuro

A popular setting for many different anime — Photo by skasamatsu

Anime that have modern settings such as "Digimon" or "Durarara!!", often have scenes set in Ikebukuro! You can also find many anime shops and goods in this area.  

For nature lovers: 

Though many have an image of busy streets and concrete buildings when it comes to Tokyo, Japan's capital also has many beautiful parks to offer!

Ueno Park

This park has something to offer in all seasons — Photo by Studio FRLAME

Ueno Park is full of cherry blossom trees and museums for visitors to see. A beautiful sight throughout all four seasons, this lush escape is conveniently located right beside Ueno station in Tokyo. 

Yoyogi Park

Yoyogi park is very popular for picnics! — by STUDIO AQUA

Known as one of Tokyo's largest parks, this park offers many wide open areas for fun photos and picnics! Yoyogi Park is often very busy in the spring time because many people like to come to view the cherry blossoms. 

Inokashira Park

Inokashira Park offers beautiful scenery in all areas! — Photo by KIKI Wedding

This park is about half an hour away from central Shinjuku station and is located in an interesting area with lots to see and do. Inokashira Park has fun activities for couples and families, as well as beautiful scenery for photos. 

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Shinjuku Gyoen is little ways from the city and much to offers — Photo by trickster photography

This beautiful garden is located right in the middle of the city and is a popular sight, especially in the spring time. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a popular spot for Tokyoite couples since it is just a stone's throw from Shinjuku station (the busiest station in the city) and can be visited any time of the year! 

For a more traditional setting: 

Though many regard Tokyo as a very modern city there are still parts which are purposefully kept as if they are stopped in time. These spots around the city make for lovely old-time photos and are a great way to experience traditional Japan. 

Asakusa

A mix of old and new Japan — Photo by The Royal Workshop Japan

Though the area is filled with tourists, one can also find many shops and vendors that offer a taste of old Japan. Asakusa has many famous photo spots such as Kaminari gate. 

Little Edo (Kawagoe)

A town paused in time - Little Edo - Co Edo — Photo by YEWKONG Photography

Little ways away from Tokyo, this town has been paused in the Edo period of Japan. Stroll around to see the old architecture of the area and get some antique-looking pictures!

Meiji Shrine

Peaceful scenery can be found throughout the Meiji Shrine — Photo by Atelier Kinoshita

Right next to the bustling area of Harajuku, Meiji Shrine a very peaceful area. The shrine is located next to Yogogi Park as well so visitors are often invited to walk through both areas. 

Imperial Palace East Garden

A Japanese garden is a perfect backdrop for a kimono photo! — Photo by by U-CONCENT

Home to 210,000 square meters of green space, the park is a good getaway from the city and a great way to get beautiful photos. The Imperial Palace East Garden is free of charge and open all year round! 

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