Japan's 14 Best Destinations To Snap Beautiful Pictures

From busy street corners in Tokyo, to peaceful mountaintop shrines, to temples framed by sakura blossoms, Japan is truly a photographer's dream. To help you capture Japan at its most breathtaking, we've compiled a list of the most photo-worthy spots across the country. Using tips from photographers, local Japanese experts, and reviews from travelers, this guide includes both historic and modern spots, as well as hidden gems and famous destinations.

Before you grab your camera, there are some important guidelines that every photographer in Japan must know. First-time visitors may be surprised to learn that Japan's no-nonsense photography etiquette isn't just a rule — it's a law. Taking photos of strangers without permission is prohibited, and professional photographers should blur out any unknown faces they capture. In addition, many of Japan's most famous sites have strict rules regarding photography, so pay attention to any posted signs. It may also be considered impolite to take pictures of merchandise displayed in stores. When in doubt, it's best to ask for permission prior to snapping photos. This way, you'll be able to photograph this glorious country to your heart's content without disturbing the locals and violating the unwritten rules.

A person could spend their whole life wandering the streets of Tokyo. The world's most populated city is an exciting, albeit crowded, cultural hub, with modern skyscrapers, ancient temples, and everything in between. First up, head to the Tokyo Tower, the iconic red Eiffel Tower-inspired landmark that's an integral part of the Tokyo skyline. The tower provides endless photo ops, whether you take a shot of the tower framed by sakura blossoms in the spring, or ascend to the top for panoramic city views. 

Another highlight for photographers is the Shibuya district, especially famous for the Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest crosswalks in the world. Approximately 1,000 to 2,500 people "scramble" across it from all directions every two minutes, thus its nickname "Shibuya Scramble." The colorful neon signage and constant movement are both a challenge and delight to photograph. 

Photographers must visit Tokyo's ancient sites, especially Sensoji, one of the city's oldest temples, originally constructed in 628 AD. There, you'll discover an ornate pagoda, one of Japan's iconic five-tiered towers — an essential capture for your camera roll. As this is a sacred place, be sure to pay attention to posted signs related to photography. Visit in the evening to see the temple illuminated with lights, and walk down one of Japan's oldest streets called Nakamise-dori.

Next on the list is perhaps the country's most iconic sight: Mount Fuji, or Fujisan in Japanese. While you can see the mountain from certain spots in Tokyo on clear days, it is often obscured by clouds and fog. You can technically take a day trip to Fuji from the city, but you'll definitely want to give yourself enough time to discover this famous landmark. Consider staying in the resort town of Fujikawaguchiko, located on Lake Kawaguchi in the Fuji Five Lakes region. Or, venture farther out to Hakone, a scenic town full of hot springs.

A lake cruise provides some of the most incredible views of the mountain, and so does the nearby Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway. The ropeway takes visitors up Mount Tenjo for some truly jaw-dropping views of Fuji and the lakes. Another gorgeous view of Fujisan can be found at Arakurayama Sengen Park, where the Chureito Pagoda overlooks the snow-capped peak. In the spring, the pagoda becomes a hot spot for photography, as it's one of the top places to find Japan's spectacular cherry blossoms.

Like the rest of Japan, Kyoto is brimming with photogenic scenes. This timeless destination was named the most peaceful place in Asia, and for good reason. The historic district of Higashiyama has photo ops around every corner, in addition to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Get shots of the wooden Yasaka Pagoda, or Hokan-ji Temple, as well as the narrow alleys of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, two of Higashiyama's most well-known streets. The Gion district, Kyoto's traditional geisha quarter, is also located inside the Higashiyama area. You're not guaranteed to spot a geisha, of course, but the wooden machiya houses along the cobblestone streets are worth seeing. This picturesque region can get crowded at times, so plan to visit in the morning or evening to avoid the rush.

The streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka both lead up to the gorgeous water temple of Kiyomizudera, built over the Otowa Waterfall. Considered one of the most beautiful temples in Japan, the site offers numerous opportunities for photography. The wooden veranda is the most recognizable feature of the temple, with views overlooking the rest of Kyoto. But, simply wandering the grounds will provide plenty of interesting angles. Make sure to visit Jishu Shrine and take a sip from the multi-tiered waterfall, which is believed to bring good luck.

Also within Kyoto are two more places that every photographer should visit: the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, both of which you may recognize as they are incredibly famous. On the western fringes of Kyoto, at the base of Arashiyama, or Storm Mountain, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a serene walk through a breathtaking bamboo forest. While you're there, cross the Togetsukyo Bridge to the Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, home to lively Japanese wild macaques that will make a fun addition to your photography portfolio. 

Continue to the world-famous Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, home to a tunnel of 1,000 red torii gates leading up the sacred Mount Inari. The full trail, lined with the iconic red gates, takes about two to three hours to complete, but the hike is worth it to escape the crowds at the entrance. As one of Japan's most photographed locations, it's often full of camera-toting tourists. Sunrise is the best time to visit, both for optimal lighting and a more peaceful visit.

Take a step back in time at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go, known for its one-of-a-kind historic architecture. Considered one of the most charming villages in the world, Shirakawa-go in the Gifu Prefecture is primarily known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some over 250 years old. Gassho-zukuri roughly translates to "constructed like hands in prayer" — a fitting name for the cottages, which rise at an angle like praying hands. The mountainous Shirakawa-go gets heavy snow, and the steep roofs were designed to prevent damage. The large attic spaces were also ideal for silkworm cultivation, once a key industry in Japan. 

One of the oldest homes, the Wada House, is ideal for photos and houses an interesting collection of artifacts and historical relics from Shirakawa-go. Another iconic sight in Shirakawa-go is the gassho-zukuri "triplets," a trio of cottages scenically situated on a glassy rice field, framed by the dramatic mountains. For a birds-eye view, head up to the Ogi-machi Castle Ruin Observation Area, or slightly farther to the Tenshukaku Observatory for even more expansive views. Many visitors spend just a few hours in Shirakawa-go. However, to really soak up the atmosphere, consider spending the night in one of the traditional homes that have been turned into a minshuku, or Japanese-style bed-and-breakfast.

The beautiful, sacred city of Nikko — located roughly three hours from Tokyo by train — is characterized by waterfalls, natural beauty, and ancient shrines with UNESCO World Heritage Site status. As one of the most gorgeous cities in Japan, photogenic moments abound, no matter the season. One favored spot for photographers, especially in the autumn, is Nikko's red Shinkyo Bridge — a bridge that has stood here for time immemorial, the current iteration nearly 400 years old. The bridge, picturesquely situated above the rushing Daiya River, is part of the Futarasan-jinja Shrine, a striking red hall deep in the forest. As with other popular destinations, early morning is key to avoid the crowds.

Another iconic photo op near Nikko is Kegon Falls. Considered one of the most beautiful cascades in Japan, it's the only outlet of the turquoise Lake Chuzenji, sitting on a plateau above the gorge. Visitors can access the viewing platform for free, but the elevator to the higher platform requires a small fee — totally worth it for those epic photos. Ride the sky-high ropeway to the Akechidaira Plateau for incredible panoramic views of the waterfall, Lake Chuzenji, and Mount Nantai.

Hiroshima is known worldwide for the tragic events of August 1945, when an atomic bomb destroyed much of the city. While Hiroshima still bears scars, it's also one of Japan's most beautiful cities, with mountain and waterfront views galore. An essential stop for every visitor in Hiroshima is the Peace Memorial Park, home to the Genbaku Dome historic site, the only surviving structure of the attack. The ruins are a carefully preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of hope for a peaceful future.

From Peace Memorial Park, take a 45-minute ferry from Motoyasu Pier to the small island of Miyajima in Hiroshima Bay. The star of this mystical island, one of Japan's most-visited tourist spots, is the UNESCO-designated Itsukushima Shrine. This 13th-century Shinto shrine rises out of the water and is known for its distinctive red torii gate, which appears to stand on the surface at high tide. 

The gorgeous Himeji Castle and its towering rooftop is definitely one of Japan's most photogenic landmarks, and it's visible from different viewpoints throughout the city of Himeji. Known as Japan's largest and most visited castle, Himeji Castle is said to resemble a great white bird in flight, thus its nickname "White Heron Castle." The 17th-century fortress, about one hour from Osaka, comprises 83 buildings, with the tower standing majestically above them all. 

While the castle itself is fascinating to explore — particularly its labyrinth of mazes, halls, and hidden staircases — photographers can head to various locations throughout the eponymous city for the best views. The classic shot is taken from below with the castle reflected in the waters of the surrounding moat, and it's especially gorgeous during cherry blossom season. Another beautiful perspective of Himeji Castle is behind Himeji City Zoo, with the red bridge in the foreground and the castle rising behind it — be prepared to fight through crowds for this shot. Finally, make the steep 200-step climb to Otokoyama Haisuiike Park for stunning eye-level views of Himeji Castle. 

Ginzan Onsen is Japan's most photogenic onsen — or, hot springs — town, and while it's gorgeous any time of year, it's especially breathtaking in the snow. To reach this historic wooden town, take a three-hour bullet train from Tokyo to Oishida Station, followed by a 40-minute bus ride. Or, fly into Yamagata Airport and take an hour-long bus trip to Ginzan Onsen. 

Although slightly complicated to reach, the mountain town of Ginzan Onsen is not only a relaxing resort town full of hot springs, but it's also a well-preserved piece of old Japan. The Ginzan River flows through the center of town, lined by traditional wooden buildings and lit up each night by old-fashioned gas lamps. In an effort to mitigate crowds in the area, a new capacity limit and evening curfew has been introduced for day trip visitors. The best way to enjoy Ginzan Onsen is to stay overnight in one of the charming, locally-run ryokans, or traditional inns. Plus, the thermal hot springs are generally restricted to overnight guests only. However, you'll want to plan your visit well in advance as spots tend to fill up quickly.

Kanazawa — a four-hour train trip from Kyoto — is one of Japan's most well-preserved cities, in addition to being one of the most affordable (and gorgeous) destinations for tourists on a budget. Within Kanazawa, the most famous site is the endlessly photogenic Kenrokuen Gardens. Considered one of Japan's "Three Great Gardens," the 19th-century garden deserves at least half a day on your itinerary. The sprawling grounds are full of hidden corners, winding paths, peaceful streams, blooming flowers, ornate bridges, and traditional teahouses. Even in winter, the blanket of snow provides plenty of photogenic moments.

After exploring the gardens, your next stop must be the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Traditional Arts and Crafts. Kanazawa is known as the "City of Handicrafts," many of which have been passed down through generations, like kaga yuzen silk dyeing, gold leaf work, lacquerware, and mizuhiki, or Japanese decorative cord-tying. Consider visiting a nearby workshop to get images of artists at work — with their permission, of course. While in Kanazawa, visit the Nagamachi Samurai District, near Kanazawa Castle. The narrow cobblestone streets are lined with traditional mud-packed homes that will send you right back to the days of the samurai.

Foodies should visit Osaka, nicknamed "Japan's Kitchen," particularly the vibrant Dotonbori district. Dotonbori is especially popular among food photographers, but the canals, boats, and colorful neon signage make for a true photography adventure. From the picturesque Tazaemonbashi Pier, take a short cruise on the colorful Tombori River, which passes through the heart of Dotonbori. 

Dotonbori, in addition to being a foodie haven, is the epicenter of Osaka nightlife, with lively pubs, clubs, and karaoke bars — this is Japan, after all. To capture the vibrant energy, head to the Dotonbori Channel, stopping on one of the many bridges to gaze out and snap some photos. Nighttime is the clear choice for Dotonbori, for its bright lights and busy thoroughfares.

Join a street food tour of Dotonbori to sample some of the city's unique specialties and take pictures while you're at it. During the tour, you'll try local favorites like takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries filled with sweet red bean paste). For more tasting opportunities, sit down for a traditional hot pot experience or some conveyor belt sushi. Again, it's best to get the green light from staff before taking out your camera. 

The mystical Mount Koya, on the Kii Peninsula south of Osaka, is one of Japan's most sacred sights. More than 100 temples and monasteries line the slopes, most of them dedicated to Japanese Shingon Buddhism. There's also the beautiful and atmospheric Okunoin Cemetery, featuring at least 200,000 grave sites. This incredibly photogenic destination is a dream to visit, but it isn't exactly the easiest to reach. You'll need to take a two-hour train ride from Osaka to Gokurakubashi Station, followed by a cable car up to Koyasan Station and a bus ride. As the cemetery is best visited very early in the morning or at dusk, consider staying the night in nearby temple lodgings, or shukubo in Japanese.

Okunoin Cemetery is best known as the resting place of Kobo Daishi, the founder of the Shingon School of Japanese Buddhism, attracting many pilgrims from all over. Every time you pass his mausoleum, it's customary to bow as a way of paying your respects. While not all sections of the cemetery can be photographed, such as the Torodo Hall, there's still plenty of inspiration to be had among the ancient old-growth forests and stone relics of the Kii Mountain Range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Japan's tallest waterfall is made even more photo-worthy thanks to a tall red shrine standing nearby. While the iconic Nachi Falls, cascading down a lush cliff from a height of 436 feet, are not easy to reach, they're more than worthy of a visit. On certain days, when the sunlight hits the Seiganto-ji Temple just right, you'll be in a photographer's dreamland. Located on the same grounds as the Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, along Japan's famous Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, the site symbolizes the harmonious melding of Buddhist and Shinto traditions. Both benefit from the incredible view over Nachi Falls. The falls themselves were once revered by locals, and are still considered a beautiful and mystical site. Make sure to visit the viewing platform and climb the temple for various perspectives of the waterfall. 

To reach the falls by public transport, take a bus from either Nachi Station or Kii-Katsuura Station. The nearest major cities are Osaka and Kyoto; both Kii-Katsuura Station and Nachi Station are roughly four hours from Osaka by train. 

The incomparable Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki is made to be photographed, its deep gorge crowned by waterfalls, lined with rowboats, and crossed by bridges. Located two hours away from Kumamoto and three from Fukuoka, these soaring basalt cliffs formed along the Gokase River over 100,000 years ago. Once you arrive at the cliff's edge, be sure to take some pictures from the wooden viewing platforms and walk along the gorge on a paved path. For the classic experience, rent a rowboat and head down the river to the base of the famous Manai Waterfall, cascading down the gorge's volcanic walls. Visit in the evening between May and November to see the gorge illuminated with lights. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance as they tend to sell out quickly. 

While the natural surroundings are undoubtedly the main attraction, there are other nearby sites worth seeing too. The ancient Takachiho Shrine, deep in the cedar forest, is a place of Japanese mythology and tranquility. You must also try the Takachiho regional specialty, nagashi soumen noodles, or "flowing noodles." For this unique dish, noodles take a ride down a bamboo waterslide and diners catch them with chopsticks. 

To discover the best destinations in Japan for photographers, we consulted published resources from renowned photography outlets such as Canon and Flytographer. We browsed extensive reviews and recommendations published on Reddit, as well as the expertise of photography publications such as The Wandering Lens, along with the author's personal experience. To ensure that our guide includes the most accurate information for visitors and the most renowned photo-worthy destinations in Japan, we drew from local tourism boards such as the Japan National Tourism Organization and Japan Guide. For historical context and cultural significance, we referred to the UNESCO website.