Japan is a dream destination to capture for many photographers. The country’s architecture is known for its minimalist, functional designs, its cities for their bright lights and innovative features, and its natural landscapes for their varied beauty – there are cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, fiery red leaves in autumn, and deep snow in winter.

There’s a lot to shoot here, whether you prefer to capture vast landscapes or smaller design features. Some locations you may have already had the pleasure of visiting – or, you’ll at least be familiar with other photographers’ shots. In this guide, we look at some of the spots that are popular to photograph, as well as a few lesser-known alternatives.

View down on Shibuya Crossing, April 2024

Popular photography locations

Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto

You’ll recognise Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto by its winding path of bright red torii gates (traditional gates that mark the entrance to Shinto shrines). It’s a location that often results in simple but powerful photos thanks to the repeating shapes, bold colours and unique structure, which make it instantly recognisable.

Arakurayama Sengen Park (Chureito Pagoda), Fujiyoshida

Arakurayama Sengen Park in Fujiyoshida is home to one of the most famous views in Japan – the Chureito Pagoda. In summer, the scenery is filled with cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji can be seen rising in the background on a clear day. It’s the mix of Japanese elements that draws many photographers to the location.

Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo

Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo is often called the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world. When the lights change, hundreds of people can be seen moving across the intersection at once, creating an energetic scene that feels unique to Tokyo. Many photographers like to capture the movement of the crowds and the bright neon signs, which look particularly cinematic in the evening or after it’s rained, thanks to the reflections they create.

Less-captured alternatives

Shirakawa-go – Traditional Village in the Mountains

In the mountain village of Shirakawa-go, you’ll find traditional thatched-roof farmhouses surrounded by forests and rice fields. The village feels a lot like something out of a storybook, particularly in winter when it’s covered in snow. From the nearby viewpoints, you can capture the whole village from above, creating beautiful compositions with the houses, fields, and mountains layered together.

Motonosumi Shrine – Torii Gates by the Sea

Along the coast in Yamaguchi, Motonosumi Shrine offers a dramatic line of red torii gates leading down toward the sea – it can make an excellent alternative to the more frequented Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto. However, what makes this spot particularly special is the backdrop of the rugged cliffs and deep blue ocean, which contrast with the bold red of the gates.

Tottori Sand Dunes – Japan’s Mini Desert

At the Tottori Sand Dunes, you’ll discover a landscape that feels completely different from the rest of Japan. This spot is essentially a mini desert, where wind-shaped sand patterns create simple, minimalist scenes that photographers love. Visit at sunrise or sunset to benefit from the long shadows that bring out the texture in the sand.

There’s something special about spending time in Japan that’ll leave you with stunning photos and a sense of calm. Embrace slow travel and capture some of these off-the-beaten-path locations for something a little different to the more popular tourist hotspots.

Words copyright Amber Hill

Image copyright Debbie Smyth

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