how to capture amazing photos in japan
Japan photography guide
Jhow to capture amazing photos in japan
How To Capture Amazing Photos in Japan
Tips + Local Photographers
Japan, a land where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge modernity, offers a visual feast for photographers seeking to capture its diverse beauty.
It truly is such an exciting country to photograph from the mountains to ancient temples to ultra-modern cities.. I am certain you will LOVE Japan.
I first traveled to Japan in February of 2022 with One Life Adventures (read about my first trip here!) then have begun going back annually with my company Wanderlust Group Trips.
Before we dive into specific Japan related tips, here are a few frequently asked questions about my travel photos:
- My camera is the Canon 90D.
- I mostly edit in the mobile app Lightroom. I have the paid version but there is also a free version. However, if you take a lot of photos, the paid version is absolutely worth it.
- The biggest improvement I saw in my photos came when I upgraded my kit lens (this is the lens I shoot with the most!!) and began shooting in RAW.
- Check out Snapseed and Airbrush for editing too. I use these apps to remove wrinkles from clothes, remove people from the background etc.
- I shoot on manual mode in RAW format with my camera. If you have a camera and you’re still shooting on automatic, watch this video to start shooting in manual
And now, here’s how you can elevate your photography game with these essential tips for exploring the Land of the Rising Sun.
how to capture amazing photos in japan
1. Time Your Travels Right: Seasons Matter
Japan’s beauty changes with the seasons.
Cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant foliage in autumn, and snow-covered landscapes in winter offer distinct photographic opportunities.
Research the best time to visit based on your preferred scenery and plan your trip accordingly.
Keep in mind, for fall colors or cherry blossom season, you’ll want to book hotel and activities far enough in advance.
Read: 33 BEST JAPAN TRAVEL TIPS – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR TRIP
2. Early Bird Catches the Photo
Popular spots like Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove draw crowds.
Arrive early to capture these iconic locations in the soft morning light without the distraction of masses, allowing your photos to reflect the serene beauty of these landmarks.
Sensoji Temple is one of the most popular spots in Tokyo. We went before 9am on a weekday to capture photos without anyone in them. It still required some patience and some creative posing (there are people behind me that I am blocking from my crouched down position!) but the earlier you wake up, the easier time you’ll have capturing photos!
3. Utilize the Crowds For Unique/Artistic Shots
Tokyo is the largest city in the world. A whopping 4x larger than New York City.
There will absolutely be unavoidable crowds at places like Nakamise-dori Street or the world’s busiest crossing, Shibuya Scramble.
So if a crowd is unavoidable, try using them to your advantage!
Below, we shot with a super slow shutter speed to capture the whirl of the crowd around me at the famous markets on Nakamise-dori Street.
This article does a great job of explaining motion blur photography.
While at the famous Shibuya Crossing, we used the crowd to create a tunnel around us in the center of the picture!
4. Book a Photography Airbnb Experience
Japan is full of really talented photographers selling photo tours on Airbnb for a really reasonable price.
For example, the “electric town” of Tokyo is such a unique and exciting place to photograph!
However night photos can be tricky for even established photographers. And if you shoot with a tripod, it’s a crowded area that makes self portraits super difficult.
If you want to have a local photographer show you around the area at night while capturing dazzling shots under the lights, you can book a number of great photographers on Airbnb Experiences.
You can also find really great photographers (at a great price!) in Osaka and Kyoto if you want professional pictures in kimonos or around Japan’s other iconic cities. They are also listed on Airbnb Experience!
Here is a great one that I have personally done and highly recommend.
I have also worked with the photographer from this photo experience in Tokyo. I simply messaged him on the app and asked to meet outside of his tour hours since I was hoping for a daytime shoot with him.
He was the one who took the photos of my best friend and I at Shibuya Crossing where a tripod would have been impossible!
5. Local Style: Shop for Unique Pieces
Enhance your photos by incorporating local fashion finds.
Explore markets and boutiques to discover traditional garments or modern pieces that showcase Japan’s unique style.
These additions not only enhance your wardrobe and make for wonderful souvenirs but also lend authenticity to your photographs.
During my group trip to Japan, we loved shopping for the iconic Japanese style bomber jackets.
If you’re willing to splurge and invest in a really great one, I suggest shopping at BSC Gallery in Kyoto. They have incredibly intricate, beautiful and unique jackets here.
BSC Gallery Address: Japan, 〒604-8035 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Sakuranocho, ４２０
But you can also find more affordable options at Don Quijote, the biggest chain discount store in Japan.
In Osaka, we found really great Japanese jackets for sale at the Osaka Castle gift shop below the rooftop restaurant and at the Japan Culture & Character Shop Guf.
In addition to a Japanese bomber jacket, I bought a beautiful kimono-style bathrobe to sleep in.
I found it at the one of the historic market stalls along Nakamise-dori Street in Tokyo. (There were multiple shops selling kimonos like this there!)
Other favorite accessories I bought in Japan included a fan, a Japanese style hair clip and paper crane earrings.
6. Connect with Local Photographers
Forge connections with local photographers to gain insights into hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations.
Social media platforms and photography communities can be invaluable for finding like-minded individuals who can offer tips, share experiences, and even accompany you on photography excursions.
If you search hashtags like #tokyophotographer or #kyotophotoshoot on Instagram, you’ll be able to come across some amazing photographers for hire!
Here are a few photographers I would recommend that you can reach out to on social media:
- Future_Vizion – he takes particularly amazing night shots around Tokyo!
- Isa.raw_– runs a nighttime Airbnb experience in Tokyo but I messaged her on Instagram and asked if she was free to take pictures during one of my free mornings in Tokyo and we shot the pictures I have at Senso-ji Shrine
- Jariay – popular photographer in Tokyo, I have never worked with him as he has always been booked. If you want to shoot with him, reach out early!
- Deniz – photographer in Tokyo
- Lucas– located in Kyoto area and owns a kimono rental studio as well
- Jojo– located in Shizuoka but can travel & was really quick to respond to my DMs.
7. Chasing Fuji: Plan for the Unpredictable
No trip to Japan is complete without a glimpse of the iconic Mount Fuji. However, the elusive peak is known to hide behind clouds.
Ensure you capture its majesty by booking multiple days in the region and opting for refundable accommodations.
Keep a keen eye on weather forecasts, and if the mountain remains coy, use the extra days to explore the surrounding picturesque landscapes, turning your Mount Fuji quest into an unforgettable adventure.
P.S. Hakone is one of the best towns for Mount Fuji views!
8. Navigating Tokyo: Conquer the Megacity
Tokyo, the world’s largest city, is a sprawling metropolis that demands strategic planning for photographers. With diverse districts offering unique visuals, plan your shoot locations efficiently.
Utilize the efficient public transportation system and consider neighborhood clusters to maximize your time.
From the historic charm of Asakusa to the neon-lit streets of Shibuya, careful planning ensures you capture Tokyo’s multifaceted allure without feeling overwhelmed by its expansive cityscape.
I would suggest that you make a Google Maps saved list of all the places you want to go in Tokyo. You may not realize it but some spots will be over an hour apart on the metro. Tokyo is huge.
If you’re not traveling during peak traffic hours, you can also use uber in Tokyo to get from spot to spot.
Pro tip: Have a PASMO card ready to go and added to your Apple Wallet so you can easily and quickly get on and off the metro or bus!
9. TeamLab: A Visual Wonderland Awaits
A visit to TeamLab’s immersive art exhibits is a must for any photographer seeking a surreal visual experience. To ensure you don’t miss out on this mesmerizing journey, book your tickets in advance. Keep in mind that these popular exhibits can sell out quickly.
Prepare for a unique twist—visitors are required to remove their shoes and socks before entering certain installations.
Plan your outfit accordingly for a seamless and enjoyable experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the captivating world of TeamLab’s boundary-pushing artistry.
Keep in mind, you will be required to go through the art exhibit barefoot as some of the rooms are filled with water.
Furthermore, if you plan to wear a dress or a skirt, you will want to have shorts underneath. There are many mirrors on the floor so your underwear will be fully visible if you don’t wear shorts. (TeamLABS does provide free rental shorts if you need a pair however!)
10. Kimono Chronicles: Renting Elegance in Kyoto
Elevate your Japanese photography adventure by donning a traditional kimono, especially when exploring the cultural gem of Kyoto. Many rental shops offer an array of vibrant kimonos, allowing you to step back in time and seamlessly blend with Kyoto’s timeless charm.
Opting for a kimono not only adds a touch of authenticity to your photographs but also provides a deeper connection to the city’s rich heritage. Wander through the historic streets, visit ancient temples, or pose by cherry blossoms in full traditional regalia, creating a visual narrative that beautifully intertwines modern photography with Japan’s classical elegance.
Remember to plan ahead and reserve your kimono rental, particularly during peak seasons, to ensure a smooth experience as you capture the essence of Kyoto’s cultural tapestry.
I have personally rented from Yume Kyoto Kodaiji Shop.
They have a gorgeous selection of kimonos and it isn’t an expensive activity! You can even opt to have your hair done as well for roughly $10 or 1,500 yen.
This shop is also a 3 minute walk away from one of the most iconic photo spots in Kyoto: Hokan-ji Temple also known as the Yasaka Pagoda.
Pro tip: If you rent from this particular shop, there is a great shooting spot right out the backdoor. Since it’s off a side street, it’s not packed. And the traditional style roofs not only look great but provide shade so you can shoot great quality photos even at peak daylight hours when often the shadows (and crowds!!) would be too much on the main street.
11. Cultural Courtesy: Navigating Japan’s Photography Etiquette
In the land of politeness and precision, respecting local customs is paramount for a seamless photographic journey through Japan. Here are some essential etiquettes to bear in mind:
- No Tripods at Crowded Spots: While capturing the perfect shot is tempting, many popular sites prohibit tripods during peak hours. Embrace the challenge and rely on your skills to capture steady and stunning images without disrupting the flow of fellow admirers.
- Geisha Grace: A Snapshot with Respect: In Kyoto’s Gion district, where the elusive geishas gracefully roam, resist the urge to bombard them with photo requests. Appreciate their artistry from a distance, and if you’re lucky enough for spot them, just appreciate the moment for how unique special it is.
- Always Ask Before Snapping: Japan’s emphasis on harmony extends to photography. Before capturing portraits of locals, especially in rural or residential areas, seek permission with a polite “Sumimasen, shashin o totte mo ii desu ka?” (Excuse me, is it okay to take a photo?). This simple gesture not only shows respect but often leads to genuine and heartwarming interactions.
By embracing these cultural norms, your photography journey becomes a shared experience, fostering connections and memories that extend beyond the frame. In Japan, courtesy is not just a formality—it’s a key to unlocking the true beauty and warmth of this extraordinary destination.
12. Capturing Elegance: Photographing Geisha in Kyoto
The allure of Kyoto’s Gion district lies not only in its historical charm but also in the graceful presence of Geisha or Maiko (apprentice geishas.)
To respectfully capture their ethereal beauty, consider booking a “meet and greet” tour, an opportunity that not only allows you to photograph a Maiko up close but does so with their explicit permission.
In Kyoto, you are not supposed to approach Geisha or Maikos on the street for selfies. And you definitely should never grab or touch one in an attempt to get a photo.
These specialized tours offer an intimate and culturally enriching experience, where you can learn about the intricate artistry of the Maiko and capture their mesmerizing transformation into the epitome of grace. Remember, the key is to approach this experience with reverence, ensuring that your photography respects the privacy and dignity of these iconic figures.
Booking a “meet and greet” tour not only provides you with incredible photographic opportunities but also deepens your understanding of the traditions woven into the fabric of Kyoto’s cultural tapestry. It’s a chance to create images that tell a story beyond the visual, embracing the spirit and significance of the Maiko world.
This is the exact tour I booked in Kyoto and I highly recommend it. While the dinner wasn’t our favorite, it is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet with an actual Maiko, an apprentice Geisha!
Otherwise for a more in-depth meeting, I suggest booking this tour on Viator.
13. Skyline Serenity: Golden Hour from Rooftop Bars
For a truly enchanting perspective of Japan’s juxtaposition of ancient and modern, elevate your photography to new heights—literally. Seek out rooftop bars during the golden hour, that magical time just before sunset when the sky is bathed in warm hues, and city lights begin to emerge.
Imagine sipping on your favorite beverage as you witness the sun casting its final glow over Kyoto’s ancient temples or Tokyo’s contemporary skyline. This fusion of old-world charm and urban vibrancy creates a captivating tableau, perfect for capturing the essence of Japan’s dynamic beauty.
Here are a few of the ones I highly recommend:
- Osaka: Blue Birds Rooftop Terrace – unreal views of Osaka Castle
- Kyoto: K36 Bar & Restaurant – stunning views of Yasaka Pagoda + the surrounding city and mountains, located inside the hotel, does have a cover charge but worth it at sunset/golden hour!
14. Join me in Japan and I’ll personally photograph your trip!
If you want to travel Japan with an expert guide and a photographer, join me on a Wanderlust Group Trip!
Each November, I co-guide and photograph an annual Japan trip. And your professional photos are included free of charge!
Read: Wanderlust Group Trips: 10 Reasons To Join A Trip
Follow Wanderlust Group Trips on Instagram to keep up to date on future Japan trips.
how to capture amazing photos in japan
In conclusion, Japan offers a kaleidoscope of photographic possibilities, from ancient temples to futuristic cityscapes.
By timing your visit right, embracing local fashion, and connecting with the community, you’ll not only capture stunning images but also create lasting memories of your journey through this captivating country.
Happy shooting!
how to capture amazing photos in japan
how to capture amazing photos in japan
For more on Japan watch my top 12 tips:
