It’s fair to say that Tokyo is The Japan Concierge’s favourite city. Each moment spent in this vast never-ending hive of activity reveals new delights to explore. If Kyoto is the soul of Japan, then Tokyo is her pulsing heart. And we love everything about her.

Tokyo is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity and everything in between. From ancient temples to blade-runner-esque neon-lit streets, this incredible metropolis offers endless photo ops to budding street photographers and keen Instagrammers alike.

With that in mind here is our list of the iconic Instagram locations you shouldn't miss.

The first cab off the rank has to be the Shibuya Crossing. Considered the busiest intersection in the world, you have likely witnessed the Shibuya Scramble countless times in movies, travel shows and of course, on Instagram and TikTok. You’ll need your wits about you to dodge oncoming pedestrians as people flood the intersection from all directions, creating an awe-inspiring sight that will make your insta feed come alive.

Don’t stop with the crossing, the streets of Shibuya are full of Instagrammable moments, fuelled by a captivating youth culture. Be sure to get your photo in front of the world-famous Hachiko before heading 230 metres above Tokyo to the Shibuya Sky viewing platform where you’ll find views aplenty, including an unobstructed 360-degree panorama of Tokyo from the ‘Sky Edge’ corner.

After almost losing yourself in the teeming masses in Shibuya, ground yourself with a visit to one of our favourite spots - the amazingly serene Meiji Shrine. Surrounded by an almost out-of-place tranquil lush forest right in the middle of Tokyo, this Shinto shrine offers a retreat from the urban chaos of this enormous city.

Take a wander along the tree-lined pathways, taking in the peaceful surrounds. The wall of sake barrels near the entrance to the shrine makes for a perfect photo op, as of course does the majestic Torii gate, a symbol of good fortune and protection. The Shrine itself is a sight to behold and an essential addition to your collection. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a traditional Japanese wedding (aim for a Sunday if this is a must for your insta feed).

You heard about the fashion subculture and street fashion scene first from Gwen Stefani in her famed hit ‘Harajuku Girls’.  A photographer’s dream, take your time meandering along Harajuku's Takeshita Street. Known as the birthplace of Japanese street fashion, this bustling street is a paradise for fashion enthusiasts and Instagrammers alike. From quirky boutiques to eye-catching street art, every corner offers a unique photo opportunity that will have your followers double-tapping with envy.

The next location is at the epicentre of historic Tokyo. This rich and vibrant area offers visitors more photo opportunities than the Oscar’s arrivals carpet. At the top of this list is the iconic Senso-ji Temple. This ancient Buddhist temple, dating back to the 7th century, exudes a sense of timelessness and spirituality that infuses every photo taken. Take a selfie in front of the vibrant red gate known as Kaminarimon and the menacing Thunder Gate Guardians. Then explore the bustling Nakamise shopping street, filled with endless sharable opportunities from rows of traditional souvenirs to mouthwatering street food.

For a change of pace and perspective, transport yourself to the future by visiting Odaiba, a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. This futuristic district boasts stunning architecture, including incredible views of Tokyo in the distance, allowing photographers the unusual opportunity to include three international ‘icons’ in one photo. The Rainbow Bridge (an homage perhaps to the Golden Gate Bridge), the Statue of Liberty represents its namesake, and Tokyo Tower presenting as a red and white version of M.Eiffel’s Parisian masterpiece.

For the classic neon-lit street scene, venture to the mini-metropolis of Shinjuku. Here you will find wide boulevards, and soaring structures illuminated in an ocean of flickering neon colour and light. These are the scenes most associated with Tokyo. Throw in throngs of Tokyoites and streams of black cabs with yellow lights, and this is the perfect setting for a Tokyo nightscape photoshoot.

Once these archetypical Tokyo shots have been shared to your feed, you should wander down into Kabukicho to capture Tokyo at play. This nighttime precinct is the entertainment centre of Tokyo and will provide you with streams of content for your stories both on insta and IRL. A must-visit spot is the famous Golden Gai, with its tiny bars and winding alleys. Great photos abound, but be sure to be respectful of the locals, who may not wish to feature in your feed.

These are only a few of our favourite locations for photos but there are quintessential Tokyo shots to be taken at every turn. And while we love capturing the essence of Tokyo on our feeds, the best advice we can offer when it comes to Tokyo is to stop and take it all in, because nothing beats being there in person, and it would be a shame to miss out on that.

If you would like to hear about how we can help you plan the perfect Tokyo Insta Tour - please get in touch.