Tokyo travel guide

Best Selfie & Photo Spots in Tokyo

The best selfie spot in Tokyo is Shibuya Sky, a 229-metre open-air observation deck overlooking Shibuya Crossing. For street-level shots, Senso-ji’s Kaminarimon gate at dawn and the lantern-lit Omoide Yokocho alley at night are the most iconic backdrops.

Best selfie spots in Tokyo — Tokyo Tower and neon city skyline at dusk, Japan
best selfie spots in Tokyo — updated 22 September 2026 | original AmazingAsia artwork

Photographing Tokyo

Tokyo might be the most photogenic city on the planet — ancient temples framed by skyscrapers, neon reflected in rain, crossings filled with thousands of people. These are the spots that reliably deliver, with the best time of day for each.

The best photo & selfie spots in Tokyo

  1. Shibuya Crossing from Shibuya Sky

    The world’s busiest pedestrian crossing from 229m above.

    Best time to shoot: Sunset into blue hour

    Pro tip: Book Shibuya Sky tickets 2–4 weeks ahead; sunset slots sell out first

    Coordinates: 35.6584, 139.7022

  2. Senso-ji Kaminarimon Gate

    Giant red lantern, Tokyo’s most iconic temple shot.

    Best time to shoot: 6–7am before crowds

    Pro tip: Shoot from the side angle to include the lantern and Nakamise street

    Coordinates: 35.7148, 139.7967

  3. TeamLab Planets

    Immersive mirrored digital art rooms.

    Best time to shoot: Weekday mornings

    Pro tip: Wear light colours and shorts — you wade knee-deep through water rooms

    Coordinates: 35.6496, 139.7899

  4. Omoide Yokocho

    Lantern-lit smoky yakitori alley, pure Blade Runner.

    Best time to shoot: After dark, 7–9pm

    Pro tip: Ask permission before shooting diners; a fast lens helps in the dark alley

    Coordinates: 35.6938, 139.6998

  5. Zojo-ji with Tokyo Tower

    Historic temple framing the orange tower.

    Best time to shoot: Golden hour

    Pro tip: Stand on the temple approach for the classic alignment

    Coordinates: 35.6574, 139.7482

Destinations in Tokyo

best selfie spots in Tokyo — FAQs

Where is the best place for a selfie in Tokyo?

The best selfie spot in Tokyo is Shibuya Sky, a 229-metre open-air observation deck overlooking Shibuya Crossing. For street-level shots, Senso-ji’s Kaminarimon gate at dawn and the lantern-lit Omoide Yokocho alley at night are the most iconic backdrops.

Is photography allowed at Tokyo temples?

Photography is allowed in most Tokyo temple grounds, including Senso-ji and Meiji Jingu exteriors, but often prohibited inside main halls. Tripods are frequently banned at observation decks and crowded shrines. Always check signage and avoid photographing worshippers closely.

Last reviewed and updated: by the AmazingAsia editorial team. See our editorial policy.