The Most Instagrammable Places in Japan – A Photographer’s Dream!

Apr 19, 2025

If you love capturing breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cityscapes, and picture-perfect streets, then tourism in Japan is a must for your bucket list! From neon-lit skyscrapers to serene temples and hidden gems, Japan is a paradise for photographers and Instagram lovers alike.

Whether you're a professional showcasing your photography portfolio on Instagram or an amateur photographer looking for the best spots to capture stunning shots, Japan offers endless opportunities.

In this article, I’ll take you through the most Instagrammable places in Japan, so you can fill your feed with stunning pics and share the magic of Japan. Save this article for your next trip to Japan 📷✨

 

Chureito Pagoda 忠霊塔

(image via Wikipedia)

Chureito Pagoda, part of Arakura Sengen Shrine, offers one of the best views of Mount Fuji, especially during cherry blossom season. Built in 1963 as a peace memorial, this five-story pagoda is an iconic spot for stunning photos with cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji in the background.

📍Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture

 

Itsukushima Shrine 厳島神社

(image via Wikipedia)

Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island is known for its "floating" torii gate, which looks like it's floating on water during high tide. Dedicated to the Shinto god of the sea and storms, the shrine dates back to the 6th century. The island is sacred and has been a worship site for centuries, earning it a spot as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

📍Miyajima Island, Hiroshima Prefecture

 

Fushimi Inari-Taisha 伏見稲荷大社

(image via Wikipedia)

 

Fushimi Inari-Taisha in Kyoto is famous for its thousands of bright red torii gates that form trails behind the main shrine buildings. These trails lead into the forest of Mount Inari. It's a must-visit for both tourists and locals, offering gorgeous scenery and a deep spiritual vibe.

📍Kyoto

 

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building 東京都庁舎

(image via Wikipedia)

 

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, also known as Tokyo City Hall, is a cool modern building designed by Kenzo Tange. Completed in 1991, it has two towers with observation decks that give you amazing views of Tokyo and even Mount Fuji on clear days. The best part? The observation decks are free!

📍Shinjuku, Tokyo

 

The Blue Pond 青い池

(image via Wikipedia)

 

The Blue Pond in Biei, Hokkaido, is famous for its amazing blue color. This happened because of some natural minerals in the water after a dam was built nearby. The color changes with the seasons and weather, so it's a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers.

📍Biei, Hokkaido

 

Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku 東急プラザ表参道原宿

(image via Wikipedia)

 

Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku is a trendy shopping complex at the intersection of Omotesando and Harajuku. Known for its unique mirrored entrance and rooftop garden, it's a great place to shop, eat, and relax. It's perfect for anyone looking to experience Tokyo's fashionable side.

📍Shinjuku, Tokyo

 

Lake Kawaguchi over Mount Fuji 河口湖, Kawaguchiko

(image via Wikipedia)

 

Lake Kawaguchi, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, offers stunning views of Mount Fuji. You can enjoy activities like boating, fishing, and hiking around the lake. It's beautiful year-round, with cherry blossoms in spring and colorful leaves in autumn, making it a favorite for photographers looking to capture Fuji's reflection on the water.

📍Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture

 

Matsumoto Black Castle 松本城

(image via Wikipedia)

 

Matsumoto Castle, also known as the "Crow Castle" because of its black exterior, is one of Japan's most complete and beautiful original castles. Built in the late 16th century, it stands on a plain rather than a hill. The castle's moat and gardens add to its charm, and inside, you can explore its well-preserved interiors and steep wooden stairs.

📍Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture

 

 

Nachi Taisha 熊野那智大社

(image via Wikipedia)

 

Kumano Nachi Taisha is one of the three Kumano Sanzan shrines and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's located near the stunning Nachi Waterfall, Japan's tallest. This site has been a place of worship for centuries, blending Shinto and Buddhist elements and offering a deeply spiritual experience.

📍Nachikatsuura, Wakayama Prefecture



Futamiokitama Shrine 二見興玉神社

(image via Wikipedia)

 

Futamiokitama Shrine is famous for its "Meoto Iwa" (Wedded Rocks), two sacred rocks in the ocean connected by a heavy rope. These rocks symbolize the union of the creator kami, Izanagi and Izanami. Located near Ise, it's a popular spot, especially during sunrise when the sun rises between the rocks, creating a beautiful and spiritual scene.

📍Ise, Mie Prefecture

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