Andrea Larice YapFrom its bustling streets and majestic temples to its serene pockets of nature, Tokyo abounds in picturesque locations that make for the perfect Instagram snapshot. Whether you’re seeking vibrant cityscapes, cultural and historical landmarks, or lesser-known gems, this city has it all. Looking for Tokyo Instagram spots to add to your bucket list? Here, we list some of the most captivating locations that’ll surely level up your travel feed!
Also read: 10 Affordable Airbnbs in Tokyo for Budget Travellers
Tokyo Instagram spots to check out for cool travel photos
1. Meiji Shrine
Image credit: ari.dambrosio
A tranquil oasis nestled in the busy district of Shibuya, Meiji Shrine not only stands out as a famous sightseeing location but also as one of the must-visit Tokyo Instagram spots. Built in the early 1900s to commemorate the spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, this Shinto shrine holds great historical and cultural significance. As you enter the main torii gate, you’ll be greeted by sprawling forested grounds, picturesque path walks, historic museums, and the iconic wall of beautifully painted sake barrels.
During New Year’s Day, this shrine witnesses huge crowds offering their first prayers or hatsumode for the year to come.
Location: 1-1 Yoyogikamizonochō, Shibuya City, Tokyo, Japan
Also read: 10 Must-See Temples and Shrines in Japan
2. Tokyo Tower
Image credit (L-R): jaxography; leivsilva
Popularised for its distinct white and bright red colours during daytime, the Tokyo Tower remains, well, Tokyo’s most famous landmark. Not only that, but it also stands as a powerful symbol of the capital’s resurgence after World War II. Strike a pose at the base of the tower for an epic snapshot, or soak in the cityscape views atop its observation decks. Once nighttime sets in, the tower illuminates the metropolis with its dazzling LED lights.
Location: 4-chōme-2-8 Shibakōen, Minato City, Tokyo, Japan
3. Tokyo Skytree
Image credit (L-R): yosemite_kev; caca0729
Can’t get enough of the Tokyo skyline? Another iconic landmark for overlooking views of the city is none other than the Tokyo Skytree. Standing at a whopping 634 metres, it remains the tallest skyscraper in the Japanese capital. While its main purpose is to let you in on impressive panoramas, it also boasts interactive exhibitions, displays, shopping and dining spots to enjoy.
Location: 1-chōme-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo, Japan
4. Tokyu Plaza Entrance
Image credit (L-R): mayumi_sleep; sandynapasorn
Located along the tree-lined shopping avenue of Omotesando in Aoyama is Tokyu Plaza: a multi-storey haven of trendy boutiques and aesthetic cafes. Designed by Japanese architect Hiroshi Nakamura, this complex is famed for its mesmerising kaleidoscope-like entrance. On your hunt for more Tokyo Instagram spots in the area, Tokyu Plaza is definitely not one to be missed. Excited to get those eye-catching shots yet?
Location: 4 Chome-30-3 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan
Also read: 10 Tips for Shopping in Tokyo, According to Locals and Frequent Travellers
5. Shinjuku Golden Gai
Image credit (L-R): remy.toli; sethmandel
A maze-like network of laneways lined with speakeasies and tiny eateries, Shinjuku Golden Gai exudes an old-world charm that’s visually striking. Its colourful neon signs amid worn-out storefronts add to its nostalgic feel; thus, making it incredibly unique among more modern Instagrammable spots in Tokyo. Now, who’s ready to be transported into another era?
Location: Japan, 〒160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Kabukichō, 1-chōme−1−6 2F
Also read: Tokyo Nightlife Guide: 12 Best Bars & Clubs to Enjoy the Local Scene
6. Takeshita Street
Image credit: Elton Sa
Nothing screams lively like Harajuku’s Takeshita Street. Arguably the busiest and most colourful shopping street in Tokyo, it boasts a fusion of fashion, food, and pop culture. Here, you’re bound to stumble upon a myriad of eye-catching storefronts, quirky clothing, and even IG-worthy street food like rainbow fairy floss and dessert crepes. A place teeming with all things kawaii, this street is absolutely nothing short of a shopaholic and street photographer’s paradise!
7. Yayoi Kusama Museum
Image credit: Yayoi Kusama Museum Official Instagram Page
Art enthusiasts would know that Tokyo boasts a thriving art scene, showcasing both up-and-coming creatives and world-renowned artists. On your museum-hopping adventure, make sure to visit the Yayoi Kusama Museum. An iconic figure in the contemporary art world, Yayoi Kusama’s unique artistic expression comprises “infinity nets” of polka dots and vibrant colours. More than just one among many art-filled Tokyo Instagrammable spots, this museum ultimately gives you a glimpse into the mind of one of Japan’s most artistic geniuses.
Location: 107 Bentencho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan
Also read: 12 Tokyo Museums for Every Kind of Art Fan
8. teamLab Planets Toyosu Tokyo
Seeking an interactive museum experience and more engaging Instagrammable places in Tokyo? teamLabs Planets Toyosu Tokyo has lots of “body immersive” art exhibitions for you to explore! Go barefoot and walk through rainbow-hued water, a garden of flowers, or a dazzling room of infinite crystals.
A truly enchanting visual and sensory journey, it definitely deserves a spot on this list of Tokyo Instagrammable spots!
Note: As of writing, the teamLabs Planets Toyosu Tokyo exhibition will run until the end of 2023.
Location: 6-1-16 Toyosu, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-0061
9. Akihabara
Image credit: mumsgottatravel
Known as the otaku capital of the world, Akihabara overflows with all things anime, manga, gaming, and technology. What once started as a centre for Japan’s postwar black markets is now a mecca of Japanese subcultures, from cosplayers to J-idol culture. Ultimately, its futuristic facade and lively energy make for especially photo-worthy moments!
Location: Akihabara, Taito, Tokyo
Also read: The Ultimate Japan Travel Guide for Gamers & Anime Fans
10. Shibuya Crossing
Image credit: Kristina Durana
Our round-up of Tokyo Instagrammable spots wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the legendary Shibuya Crossing. With thousands of people crossing this junction, it creates a phenomenal spectacle of movement, which make for an interesting photo opportunity. That said, its visual impact has become a favourite subject (and backdrop) for photographers and social media junkies. Have you really been to Japan’s capital if you don’t have a photo in one of its most sought-after locations?
Location: Shibuya City, Tokyo, Japan
11. Todoroki Valley
Image credit: ohrlybmo
Nestled in the heart of the densely populated Setagay City, Todoroki Valley is a hidden nature-filled sanctuary amid an urban landscape. This jungle features woodsy areas with ancient temples and shrines dating back more than a thousand years ago. It also houses a stream formed by the Yazawa River as it stretches out into the Tama River. If you’re looking for more peaceful, unspoiled Tokyo Instagram spots, this one’s worthy of your attention.
Location: 1 Chome-15-１５番先外 Noge, Setagaya City, Tokyo 158-0092, Japan
12. Gotokuji Temple
Image credit: wynn.travelgirl
Also known as Tokyo’s Maneki Neko (Lucky Cat) Temple, Gotokuji Temple is the ultimate haven for feline lovers. It is famed for its massive collection of beckoning cats that are said to bring good fortune and success. Home to thousands of these lucky neko figurines, this Buddhist temple draws tons of locals and visitors seeking luck. But aside from this IG-worthy display, the temple grounds feature lush gardens and intricate architectural gems, from pagodas to prayer halls.
Location: 2 Chome-24-7 Gotokuji, Setagaya City, Tokyo, Japan
13. Aoyama Flower Market Tea House
Image credit (L-R): cherrydreamy; mk320k
Treating you to a visual and gastronomic feast is the best-loved Aoyama Flower Market Tea House. With three branches across Tokyo, this cafe-slash-flower shop makes for a unique tea-drinking experience. Indulge the beauty of its freshly picked blooms and satiate your hunger with its refreshing, seasonal menu. When in Aoyama Flower Market Tea House, one can’t simply pass up the chance to snap photos for the ’Gram!
Locations:
5-4-41 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo-Glaceria Aoyama 1F
1-1-24 Kichijoji Minamimachi, Musashino City, Atre Kichijoji B1F
Akasaka Biz Tower 1F, 5-3-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo
14. Ogawa Coffee Laboratory
Image credit: Ogawa Coffee Laboratory Official Instagram Page
As its name suggests, Ogawa Coffee Laboratory is not your ordinary cafe. More than just a cafe for a pick-me-up, it lets you in on the artistry and theatrics of making speciality coffee. Here, patrons can choose from 21 varieties of beans, and watch the magic of coffee-making unfold atop its wrap-around bar.
Interiors-wise, Ogawa Coffee Laboratory’s bare concrete walls and unassuming interiors make way for the true star of the show: its carefully crafted coffee and artisan fare.
Location: Japan, 〒155-0031 Tokyo, Setagaya City, Kitazawa, 3 Chome−19−20 reload1-1
Also read: 19 New Attractions in Japan to Check Out on Your Next Trip
That’s it! From vibrant streets to tranquil gardens, Tokyo has proven itself to be a mecca for stunning photography and epic backdrops. And aside from giving you that perfect snapshot, these Tokyo Instagram spots offer an experience you can’t find anywhere else in the world.
On the lookout for other places in the world to spice up your travel photos? Check out our list of photoshoot-worthy locations in Singapore and Bali!
Featured image credit: cherrydreamy | Instagram
