11 of the Best Instagram Famous Photo Spots in Japan
Japan is a magical place and there’s no doubt that anyone visiting will want to document their travels. But just having the photos for yourself isn’t enough. All of us want to show off these gorgeous places we visit by posting them to Instagram. Not just any place is worthy of a spot on our feed. Just because somewhere is pretty it doesn’t automatically give you a good backdrop for your best poses. If you’re looking for an impressive reel of photos, you’ll need to plan some photo locations. And that’s where we come in with the list of our favorite Instagram famous spots in Japan.
Itsukushima Shrine
This floating tori gate is one of the most photographed places in Japan. The calm, serene waters surrounding this quintessentially Japanise structure creates a breathtaking photo. And one that should certainly be featured on your feed. Itsukushima may be hard to pose against but use it to break up your feed. And add a new element in between all of the selfies and poses.
Harajuku
Harajuku is famous for its wild street fashions and quirky, small stores. This means it’s a prime spot for any Instagrammer wanting to show off their Japan trip. Pose by the array of colorful street art. Be photographed scouring through the maze of unique stores. Or get some snaps with the bold fashion choices of the locals. Instagram is a massive part of what made Harajuku so famous so it only makes sense to snap a few shots there yourself.
Gotokuji Temple
One of the most recognized Japanese trinkets is the waving cat. So why not visit a temple full of the happy critters for a full Japanese overload. Everyone loves these adorable animals. So much so, that there’s an entire temple dedicated to them. Not only is this an extremely popular landmark to add to your feed. The endless sea of cats also creates a very satisfying and visually pleasing image.
TeamLab Borderless
This highly popular hi-tech space is home to some of the most impressive light shows you will ever see. No place is like Borderless in terms of size or sheer magnitude. It’s no wonder the queues so large. But it’s worth the wait. Inside you’ll find mesmerizing displays that make you feel like you’re in the center of a galaxy. Make sure you book your tickets in advance. Only a lucky few get their tickets at the door and that’s only because they arrive hours before opening time. Don’t let the business put you off. This is a one-of-a-kind experience that’s sure to dazzle anyone scrolling through their Instagram feed.
Shibuya Crossing
Normally a pedestrian crossing would be rather, well, pedestrian. But in the case of the Shibuya Crossing that couldn’t be further from the truth. This has been labeled as the busiest crossing in the world. And for good reason. It houses 5 zebra crossings and during the busiest times of the day, you wouldn’t be blamed for assuming it was entirely pavement. This is due to the hoards of people who cross from the two major train stations and the massive slew of shops. Get in the midst of the madness or get a view from up high from one of the surrounding buildings. Whichever you choose this is an Instagram essential.
Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes
Mt Fuji is one of Japan’s most well-known landmarks. Not to mention the biggest. But there’s more to this place than just a mountain. The gorgeous still waters surrounding the mountain offers an incredible photo opportunity. Even for those of us who aren’t a pro with a camera. It’s basically impossible not to get a good shot of this place. Not to mention the fact that some other beautiful landmarks are just nearby.
TeamLab Planets
Another equally astounding exhibition from TeamLab. This one is more about experiencing different textures and works in a far more linear way than Borderless. But this doesn’t mean it’s not as good. The rooms are filled with unusual and interactive exhibits and they’re all stunning to look at. You won’t just be traveling here for an Instagram post. You’ll be going here for the experience. Nothing else is like this.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
This breathtaking walkway through the bamboo is a sight to behold. It is a 500-meter long path that’s encased in a towering wall of grass on either side. You can barely see the outside world. The mystical path looks like you’ve stepped into another planet let alone another country. It’s no wonder that Arashiyama is a seriously popular Instagram spot in Japan. So be sure to have it featured on your page as well.
Nakameguro River
What is more Japanese than cherry blossoms? Nakameguro River is the ideal place to capture these beautiful flowers in all their glory. Just make sure you visit in spring! If you time it just right. You’ll feel like the star in your very own anime with all the blossoms slowly cascading off the trees. Get close-up shots of the blossoms themselves or get a shot of you dancing in the magic. Either way, this will add a bit of romantic, Japanese flair to your feed.
Nezu Shrine
Nezu is a popular Instagram spot due to its seemingly endless corridor of orange. The posts line the stairs creating a very intriguing image. It’s not just aesthetics this place has going for it. Being one of the oldest shrines in Tokyo means it’s simply caked with history. So not only will you be improving your Instagram feed but you’ll also be taking in some of Japan’s history as well.
Takeshita Street
This has been crowned the cutest street in Harajuku. This is pretty hard to do considering the entirety of Harajuku has already made it onto this list. But this street, in particular, is home to some of the most adorable, kawaii stores imaginable. As well as rows upon rows of neon signs. Making Takeshita the ideal place for a classic busy Tokyo street photoshoot.
