Tokyo by Night Photography TourA photogenic tour through the urban and local sides of Shinjuku, Tokyo
★★★★★- Tokyo, Japan
- 2.5 hour tour
- Small group tour
- English speaking guide
- Instant Confirmation
What makes this tour unique
- Explore neon-lit Shinjuku with a local photographer as your personal guide
- Snap must-see spots like Kabukicho plus hidden photo gems off the beaten path
- Start with a drink at a local izakaya and chat about your dream photo style
- Get edited, high-quality photos of yourself—delivered within 3 days!
Tips and recommendations by our official guides
Looking to capture unforgettable memories of your Tokyo trip? Join this exciting photo tour led by your personal local photographer and explore the dazzling neon jungle of Shinjuku at night! From iconic must-shoot locations like the Kabukicho Ichiban-gai arch to secret photo gems tucked away in quiet alleys, this tour blends the best of the city’s energy and hidden charm. You’ll not only see Tokyo through a local’s lens but also take home striking photos of yourself in the city’s coolest spots—something you just can’t get from selfies.
Shinjuku is the world’s busiest station area, but beyond the crowds lies a rich variety of scenery. Within walking distance are cozy local izakayas in Shinjuku Sanchome, glowing signs and vibrant nightlife in Kabukicho, as well as peaceful shrines and temples offering a moment of serenity. With a guide who truly knows this dynamic neighborhood, you'll dive deep into Tokyo's layered identity while getting your best shots yet.
This experience is perfect for couples, best friends, solo travelers, and even families—especially those wanting to make the most of their short time in Tokyo. Whether it’s your once-in-a-lifetime trip or you just love cool urban photography, you'll walk away with a collection of photos that truly tell your Tokyo story.
Worried about posing for the camera? Don’t be! The tour begins with a casual drink (alcoholic or soft drink, your choice) at a local izakaya or bar—on us! It’s the perfect chance to chat with your guide, share your vision, and relax before the shoot begins. You’ll get helpful posing tips along the way, and within three days, you’ll receive all the edited photos to relive the magic. Even if you’re traveling solo, you’re not alone—many participants come solo and leave with new friends and amazing portraits.
Official guide
What's included
Kick Off the Night with a Drink and a Vision
Meet your friendly local guide at Shinjuku Station’s East Exit and head straight to the vibrant Shinjuku Sanchome area. Settle into a cozy izakaya or a cyberpunk-style bar where you’ll enjoy a drink (included!) while chatting about the photo style you're looking for. Whether you want moody neon shots or candid street portraits, this relaxed first stop helps you ease into the experience before the cameras come out and the night comes alive.
Capture the Soul of Shinjuku’s Nightlife
Step out into the glowing lantern-lit streets of Suehiro-dori, where your guided photo adventure begins in earnest. From the atmospheric Hanazono Shrine to the electric pulse of Kabukicho, you’ll shoot in a wide range of urban scenes that capture both old and new Tokyo. Don’t worry if you’re camera-shy—your guide, also a skilled photographer, will guide your poses and help you feel at ease. You'll also hear fascinating local stories as you explore.
Explore Hidden Corners and Take Home Timeless Memories
As the tour winds down, the route becomes flexible—perhaps a serene temple tucked behind the city lights, or one final neon-lit backstreet. After the tour, you’ll receive 20 professionally edited photos within 3 days, perfect for sharing or printing. By the end, you'll see Shinjuku in a whole new light—not just as a tourist, but as someone who’s connected with its hidden stories, faces, and rhythm through the eyes of a local.
Meeting Point
Lion Statue (Right in front of the East exit of Shinjuku Station)
- 1 minute walk from JR Shinjuku station East Exit
- Our guide will be holding a red/orange sign saying "Magical Trip"
- Nearest exit from Shinjuku station is A9.
Itinerary
- Meet at the Lion statue, Shinjuku Station East Exit
- Start with a drink at a local izakaya or bar (included)
- Visit a local shrine for a serene photo stop
- Explore Kabukicho and walk through Golden Gai (no photos allowed inside)
- Choose your final route:
- ・Route A: Shinjuku West (business district)
- ・Route B: Shibuya Crossing & nearby streets (train fare not included)
- All ages are welcome to join this tour.
- No camera required—unless you’d like to take your own photos along the way!
- This is a small-group tour and may include other participants.
- Not recommended for guests with mobility concerns. If you have walking difficulties, we suggest booking a private tour.
- Japan’s weather can be extreme—up to 40°C (110°F) in summer and as low as -5°C (20°F) in winter—please dress accordingly.
- Please arrive on time. To ensure the best experience for all guests, the tour starts promptly.
- If you miss the group due to lateness, unfortunately we cannot offer refunds or rescheduling.
- Photography is strictly prohibited in some areas, such as Shinjuku Golden Gai and Memory Lane. We kindly ask for your understanding and cooperation.
- The itinerary may change due to weather, traffic, or operational conditions.
- If a location is unexpectedly closed, we’ll do our best to visit an alternative.
- The tour may be canceled in the event of severe weather for safety reasons.
- Train fare is not included in the tour price.
- You are not required to cover the guide’s drink or transportation costs.
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the tour starting time.
- Free date/time rescheduling up to 24 hours before the tour starting time (depending on availability).
Check out YouTuber ShoMeJapan experiencing our tour
