Tokyo was one of the world’s most visited cities in 2016, attracting nearly 12 million visitors – Lady GaGa, David Beckham, and Justin Bieber included. The city’s eclectic locals, ancient shrines, and ridiculously tasty ramen have helped Tokyo land a spot on Google’s Fastest Rising Cities list. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to get in on the action and step your social game up with shots from the city’s Instagram hotspots.
1. Harajuku
Number of Hashtags: 1,756,628
The Harajuku fashion trend has become well-known throughout the world, but it all stems from the shops, boutiques, and street trends of Takeshita Street. Snap some pics of the most outrageous looks you see.
2. Ginza
Number of Hashtags: 1,046,848
Chuo-dori — the main strip of Tokyo’s luxury shopping district — is car-free on weekend afternoons, making it the perfect spot to snap a street style pic.
3. Asakusa
Number of Hashtags: 588,930
A walk or rickshaw ride through Asakusa’s “low city” will give you a glimpse of Japan’s past. Snap pics that highlight just how different things used to be.
4. Skytree Tower
Number of Hashtags: 383,049
At more than 2,000 feet, you can bet the observation decks at Tokyo Skytree have phenomenal views. Include a reflection of the tower, like @barrycraig did, to help your shot stand out from the crowd.
5. Odaiba
Number of Hashtags: 341,885
Odaiba, a manmade island across the Rainbow Bridge from central Tokyo, is the perfect spot for a sunset ‘gram of the skyline.
6. Akihabara
Number of Hashtags: 283,909
It’s only right that the city’s electronics district has some of the brightest lights. Visit at night to see the magic in full effect.
7. Shibuya Crossing
Number of Hashtags: 115,221
Considered one of the busiest intersections in the world, Shibuya Crossing’s lights turn red at the same time in every direction. This unleashes pedestrian chaos into the street and with some creative editing, you can bring this exhilarating feeling to your feed.
A popular meeting spot nearby, the bronze Hachiko Statue (7,702 hashtags), might also be worth a ‘gram itself.
8. Sensoji Temple
Number of Hashtags: 94,166
The ancient Sensoji temple in Asakusa is the light at the end of Nakamise Street. Framing your photo with flowers will help bring out it’s vibrant colors.
While these hotspots top the list, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (57,132 hashtags), Tsukiji Fish Market (28,510 hashtags), and the cherry blossom-lined Meguro River (24,515 hashtags) are also worth a pic.
For some up-and-coming Instagram bait, pay a visit to the Gotokuji Buddhist Temple (1,155 hashtags), which has been taken over by maneki-neko, or “beckoning cats.” You’ll recognize this Japanese good luck charm from the store front of your favorite sushi joint.
Check out our Instagram guides for London and Paris if you’re in more of a European state of mind.
