Shibuya: The Best Street Photography Locations

Location:

Shibuya lies on the southwest side of Tokyo, with countless subway and train lines running through the station. The Hachiko exit has become the main exit as it connects directly to the renowned Shibuya Scramble crossing. Additionally, the iconic statue of Hachiko, the dog, serves as the unofficial meeting spot for friends.

This area is home to one of Tokyo's best street photography locations. The scramble crossing may be cliche for some, but it anchors a few important shooting spots that never disappoint and continually challenge your creativity. 

History:

Many view Shibuya as Tokyo’s primary shopping district, where friends can enjoy fun activities and dining together. Countless shops and entertainment options surround Shibuya Station, located in the heart of the city. It first opened its doors in 1885 as a stop on the JR-Yamanote train line, when Tokyo was still referred to as Edo City. Initially part of the Akabane-Shibuya Line, the station was positioned outside the train line at the center of Shibuya, serving as a key hub for Southwestern Tokyo. Once a rural village, it transformed into the vibrant commercial area we know today. The population surged during the Meiji and Taishō eras, largely due to the rise of factories and the availability of affordable real estate. The community further expanded when major department stores moved their operations from Eastern Nihon-bashi to Western Tokyo after the Great Kantō Earthquake of 1923

Vibe:

Shibuya is one of a kind. It is vast, bold, and bright, yet hardly as overwhelming as it is depicted. That being said, Shibuya is everything everywhere, all at once.  There is no contradiction between these observations; Shibuya’s geography dictates that its presence comes in waves.  All roads from the scramble crossing gently slope up and away, creating plateaus of brilliance.  Each is interconnected with side streets, alleyways, and shopping paths that provide respite to the manic energy of pedestrian traffic on the main streets.

The photo vibe is powerful; any genre of street photography is possible here.  So many people are moving to their own beat that it becomes difficult not to capture something special.  Bright lights, taxis, and skyscrapers all factor into the opportunity that is Shibuya.

Conclusion:

Shibuya is as advertised. Take advantage of the opportunity for street photography in one of the top ten locations in the world.  Our Tokyo travel guide would love share his most beloved photography spots with you.  Jeff is a long-time resident of Tokyo, a well-respected street photographer who runs photo workshops and photography classes.  He would love to guide you on a private tour of all that Shibuya has to offer.