The best cities in Japan for Urban Photography

Japan, the nation of the rising sun is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. From its picturesque mountains to glowing valleys, Japan offers a totally surreal experience.
But Japan isn’t just known for its unparalleled natural beauty. Japan also offers a very unique urban landscape inspired by thousands of years of culture and heritage. When that blends in with the natural beauty of the country and Japan’s modern industrialized aesthetic. You truly get a very unique experience to capture on camera while in Japan.

5. Kobe

The port city of Kobe offers a perfect blend of the sea and the mountains. The city is located between the sea and the Rokko mountains. The streets are filled with both traditional and contemporary aesthetics. 

Kobe by notethanunvia via Unsplash

You can visit the all-marble Jain Temple during the day and go on top of Kobe Port Tower to watch the sun go down at sunset.

4. Kanazawa

Kanazawa is one of the few cities that survived the horrors of World War II. So that is why it has retained its ancient architecture. If you want to truly experience 16th-century Japanese architecture, then Kanazawa is the place to go. 

Kanazawa by haltakov via Unsplash

Things you should see when in Kanazawa are the 16th-century Kanazawa castle and its beautiful gardens. And if you are into the samurai culture and history then the Nagamachi Samurai District is the place you want to be.
Other places like Higashi Geisha District are also famous tourist spots.

3. Fukuoka

Another port city, Fukuoka is famous for its Mitama Festival. People light about 6000 lanterns at the Gokoku Shrine to welcome the spirits of the dead while the taiko drums play in the background.
You can visit the Tochoji Temple which has the largest sitting Buddha statue in all of Japan. Or visit the artificial beach near Momochi seaside. 

Fukuoka by SUPERIDOL via Unsplash

At night you can take a cable car to the top of Mount Sarakura to get a beautiful view of the city.

2. Osaka

Osaka wasn’t as lucky as some of the other cities in Japan and saw heavy bombing during world war II. But it was quickly built after the war and has its own style of charm to it. Compared to other cities on this list, Osaka might look a little rural. 

Osaka by Nomadic Julien via Unsplash

It may not have a lot of historical spots, but the city offers underlying beauty that needs to be experienced.

1. Tokyo

Tokyo, the epicenter of everything Japan is known for, rich culture, history, and technological prowess. Visiting Tokoyo you will get to experience all of that and much more. 

Tokyo By Yu Kato via Unsplash

From the Electric Town areas to the Sensoji Shrine and the Imperial Palace. Tokyo offers the full Japanese experience if you are short on time. Just don’t forget to view the Cherry Blossoms or Sakura when you are in Tokyo in spring. That is a one-of-a-lifetime experience.

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