An Instagram Guide to Tokyo, Japan

I’m not going to lie to you, I had high expectations of Japan. And while those expectations fell a bit flat {more on that coming soon}, I truly enjoyed capturing this country through my camera lens. There are so many Instagrammable places in Japan, but especially in Tokyo. 

I’ve done my best to create an Instagram guide for you by dividing the city into neighborhoods that I found most photogenic. From there, I’ve listed specific streets, landmarks, etc. and included their exact locations via Google Maps. This way you can plan out your days, like I did, according to which area of the city you wish to explore.

Harajuku

Takeshita Street {MAP}

Probably the most famous street in Tokyo, Takeshita Street is not only funny to say aloud, but also extremely Insta-worthy. From vibrant crepe shops, to funky vintage stores, the entire street is designed to bring out your creativity. You’ll also spot many tourists and locals alike, dressing up in outrageous costumes.

 

Tokyo Plaza {MAP}

While I was not extremely satisfied with my own capture, the entrance to Tokyo Plaza shouldn’t be missed. As if you are entering a cave, this mirror lined escalator is always a crowd pleaser. Don’t expect to ‘beat the crowds’ however, since the opening time is 11:00 AM.\

Monster Cafe {MAP}

Similar to the Robot Restaurant, but much kinder to your wallet, Monster Cafe is an experience unlike any other. I have an entire blog post drafted about this interesting place, since it’s hard to sum up in a few sentences. You can expect a performance from some Harajuku Girls, oddly colored menu items, and lab-style cocktails that you prepare yourself.

Moshi Moshi Box {MAP}

One of the more practical locations on the list, the Moshi Moshi Box is actually a tourist information center. Moshi Moshi Box provides baggage storage, currency exchange, free wifi, and tourist information in 10 different languages. The infamous clock is also a great place to capture a quick Insta.

Yoyogi Park {MAP}

Yoyogi Park is one of the largest parks in all of Tokyo. While the highlight of the park for me, personally, included barrels of sake piled high, the park has something for everyone. You can read more about Yoyogi Park, here.

Asakusa

Senso-ji {MAP}

Tokyo’s oldest temple should not be missed, regardless of whether you want to Instagram it or not. If you do, however, it makes for some epic shots. Make sure to arrive early though because this place gets packed. I got there a bit before 8:00 AM and I had the place to myself for the most part.

Denbounin Street {MAP}

Before all of the street stalls open up for the day, their exteriors are painted with beautiful murals. Some of my favorites can be found along Denbounin Street. Once again, you’ll want to arrive early before they open.

Asakusa Culture Tourist Info. Center Observation Deck {MAP}

For the best free views of Asakusa, you’ll want to head up to the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center Observation Deck. This modern building is hard to miss, and easy to access. Take the elevator to the eighth floor to get views of Senso-ji, Nakamise Dori, and the entire surrounding area.

Asakusa Kagetsudo {MAP}

Have you ever heard of melon bread? Yeah, neither. This gluten free gal had no interest in the actual bread itself, however the exterior of this small cafe was so Insta-worthy, I couldn’t pass it up. The cafe even provides fake melon bread for you to pose with. Clearly I had no idea what to do with it, but a stranger quickly helped me out {see below}.

Tokyo Skytree {MAP}

While I didn’t go up the Tokyo Skytree per say, I did admire it from afar. It’s a quick walk if you do fancy a visit, however.

Central Tokyo

Ginza Street {MAP}

The Ginza district in general is expensive, flashy, and chic. I stayed at a hostel within walking distance of Ginza Street, so I visited multiple times. The best time to see this street in all it’s glory is definitely sunset. All of the streets in Japan are strangely clean, so it’s easy enough to get a shot like the one below without worrying too much. Not that it would bother me much… who remembers the office Christmas party last year in New York City? Moving on.

Tokyo International Forum Building {MAP}

Another really neat place to step up your Instagram game is the Tokyo International Forum Building. While it doesn’t look like much on the outside, the interior is where it shines. You won’t be alone in terms of anxious locals trying to capture the perfect shot. That being said, it never feels crowded since this isn’t it’s main purpose.

Imperial Palace {MAP}

And of course you cannot go to Tokyo without at least glimpsing at the Imperial Palace. You won’t actually be allowed on the grounds without a tour, and they sell out in advance so be prepared. Even so, the palace looks stunning from afar. If you visit on a clear day, I promise you won’t be disappointed by the magic.

Misc.

Shibuya Crossing {MAP} + {MAP}

Last but not least, you must visit the busiest intersection in the world. I put this under miscellaneous because I didn’t really know how to specify this area of Tokyo. The Shibuya Crossing is easy to reach by foot from Harajuku, so you may want to include it with that area. There are multiple places to view the crossing from, but I included both of my vantage points in the maps above.

Overall, I had a great few days exploring Tokyo. While I mostly focused on Insta-worthy places, I made it a point to enjoy the moments I had without a camera attached to my face. This trip to Japan was one of my favorites this year. Coming up you can read more about Kyoto and Osaka. Watch this space.

Related: 20 Travel Tips for Solo Travelers in Japan