Tokyo is a city of endless charm, blending ancient traditions with modern wonders, making it a paradise for photography lovers. If you’re visiting Tokyo with your family, or if you're a local family wanting to preserve precious moments, choosing the right location for a photoshoot is essential. As a professional photographer in Tokyo, I’ve explored many hidden gems and iconic places across the city. In this article, I’ll share the top 5 stunning locations for a family photography session in Tokyo that will help you capture unforgettable memories and leave you with a collection of beautiful photos to cherish forever.
Whether you're after the tranquility of nature or the vibrant energy of Tokyo’s cityscape, these locations offer something unique for every family. Let's dive in!
1. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Why it’s Perfect for Family Photos:
Shinjuku Gyoen is a magnificent oasis in the heart of the city, offering a tranquil retreat from Tokyo’s bustling streets. With its beautifully landscaped gardens, cherry blossom trees, and tranquil ponds, it’s the ideal spot for family photos that feel serene and timeless. Depending on the season, you can enjoy the pink blossoms in spring or the vibrant colors of autumn leaves, both providing stunning backdrops for a natural and classic family photoshoot.
Photography Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Visit during the golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) to take advantage of soft, natural lighting, which enhances the garden’s colors and avoids harsh shadows.
Seasonal Appeal: Spring is perfect for cherry blossom (sakura) season, while autumn provides fiery red and orange foliage. Winter also offers serene and quiet landscapes.
Pose Ideas: Use the garden’s scenic bridges, open lawns, and tree-lined paths for different angles and settings. Kids love the open space to run around, allowing for candid and playful shots.
2. Meiji Shrine
Why it’s Perfect for Family Photos:
Meiji Shrine is one of Tokyo’s most iconic Shinto shrines and offers a serene setting surrounded by lush forest. It’s the perfect location for families looking to incorporate Japan’s rich cultural heritage into their photos. The towering torii gates and peaceful forest walkways provide a majestic backdrop that will make your family portraits feel both spiritual and tranquil.
Photography Tips:
Best Time to Visit: The shrine opens early, so if you arrive in the morning, you can avoid the crowds. The early light filtering through the trees creates a soft and mystical atmosphere.
Cultural Elements: Make sure to capture shots of your family walking through the large wooden torii gates or pausing in front of the shrine’s main building for a traditional touch.
Pose Ideas: Family photos in motion work beautifully here—walking hand-in-hand along the wide gravel paths or standing beneath the impressive torii gate for a grand scene.
3. Odaiba Beach Park
Why it’s Perfect for Family Photos:
Odaiba Beach Park offers a modern, seaside setting with stunning views of Tokyo Bay and the iconic Rainbow Bridge. It’s perfect for families looking for a mix of city and nature, especially if you want a relaxed, beachy feel in your photos. The park offers spacious beaches, palm trees, and an urban skyline backdrop, creating a unique mix of natural beauty and Tokyo’s vibrant energy.
Photography Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon is ideal here, as the sun sets over the bay, creating a warm and golden glow. You can also take advantage of the night lights from Rainbow Bridge for evening photos.
Versatility: Odaiba Beach Park offers plenty of options—shoot on the beach with the water and skyline in the background, or move to the promenade for more urban-style photos.
Pose Ideas: Playful shots of the kids running on the beach, building sandcastles, or flying a kite can bring a lively, casual feel to your family photos. You can also stage more intimate, candid moments as the family sits together on the sand during sunset.
4. Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple
Why it’s Perfect for Family Photos:
Asakusa, with its iconic Senso-ji Temple, offers a lively and colorful backdrop perfect for a family photoshoot that blends tradition and fun. The famous Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) with its huge red lantern is a must-see and the perfect starting point for dynamic family portraits. The bustling Nakamise shopping street and the vibrant energy around the temple create a uniquely Tokyo setting that will give your photos a distinct cultural flair.
Photography Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings offer a peaceful atmosphere, while afternoons provide more energy and action as the area fills with visitors. Both are great for different types of photos.
Cultural Touches: Use traditional features like the red temple buildings, lanterns, and bustling markets as backdrops. You can also rent kimono for the day to add a traditional element to your family’s look.
Pose Ideas: Capture the energy of the area with candid shots as your family explores the market or stands in awe of the temple. More posed, formal portraits in front of the main hall or at Kaminarimon can provide contrast.
5. Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Tower View
Why it’s Perfect for Family Photos:
For a modern and urban photoshoot, Roppongi Hills is a fantastic choice. With the impressive Tokyo Tower in the background and plenty of stylish city spots, this area provides a chic and contemporary vibe for your family portraits. The contrast of sleek architecture and the iconic Tokyo Tower creates a dynamic setting, and night-time photos with the illuminated tower are particularly breathtaking.
Photography Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Early evening to capture the glowing Tokyo Tower as the sun sets, or go fully at night for dazzling city lights.
Urban Appeal: Roppongi offers various modern architecture and lush city parks. You can shoot near the Mori Art Museum, take advantage of the panoramic city views, or use the greenery of Mohri Garden within the complex.
Pose Ideas: For a sophisticated family portrait, pose with Tokyo Tower in the background, using wide shots to emphasize the grandeur of the scene. Candid shots of your family walking along the lit-up streets or enjoying ice cream in one of the many cafes can add a personal, cozy touch.
Tokyo is a city that offers endless possibilities for a family photography session. From peaceful gardens to dynamic cityscapes, each location brings a unique atmosphere to your photos, helping you capture memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a local or visiting Tokyo with your family, these five locations are just a glimpse of the stunning backdrops the city offers. As a professional photographer, I’m here to help guide you through the best places and moments to create unforgettable images.
If you’re ready to book your next family photography session in Tokyo, I’d love to be a part of your special day. Contact me today to schedule your shoot and capture moments you’ll treasure forever.
This autumn I will have a promo of UP to 30% off in Photo Sessions in Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka.
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