📍 東京都新宿区新宿3-31-4 山田ビル 3F-8F

🛒 Recommended: Japanese vinyl (J-Pop, City Pop, Anime soundtracks), Used CDs, Rare imports

💡 Insider Tip: Disk Union is a legendary chain for music lovers. The Shinjuku branch is massive, spanning multiple floors dedicated to different genres (rock, jazz, classical, Japanese, etc.). Take your time browsing; you might find rare gems. They have excellent used sections. Tax-free shopping is available for tourists on eligible purchases over ¥5,000.

東京都庁舎 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Decks

Offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo for free. On a clear day, you might even spot Mount Fuji. It's an iconic symbol of Shinjuku's modern architecture.

📐 Best Angle: From the South Observation Deck (North Deck might be closed for renovation), capture the vast urban sprawl, including the NTT Docomo Yoyogi Building and potentially Mount Fuji in the distance. The building's exterior itself is also very photogenic, especially from the ground.

📍 東京都新宿区新宿3-14-1

🛒 Recommended: High-end fashion, Cosmetics, Gourmet food (depachika in B1F), Japanese crafts

💡 Insider Tip: Even if not buying high-end items, the basement food hall (depachika) is a must-visit for its incredible selection of gourmet foods, pastries, and beautifully packaged gifts. It's a feast for the eyes and a great place to grab a unique dessert or snack. Tax-free shopping is available for tourists on eligible purchases.

新宿東口 Shinjuku East Exit (Kabukicho Entrance)

The iconic entrance to Kabukicho, famous for its dazzling neon lights, giant billboards, and bustling nightlife. It perfectly captures the vibrant, energetic essence of Tokyo.

📐 Best Angle: Stand slightly back from the main intersection to capture the full array of neon signs, including the famous Godzilla head on the Toho Building in the background. Look for reflections in puddles on rainy nights.

思い出横丁 Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane)

A narrow alleyway filled with tiny izakayas, yakitori stalls, and ramen shops, evoking a nostalgic post-war Tokyo atmosphere. It's a fantastic spot for atmospheric night photography.

📐 Best Angle: Walk through the alleys and capture the cramped, lantern-lit spaces, the smoke rising from yakitori grills, and the lively interactions. Look for reflections in the wet ground if it has rained. The entrance arches are also iconic.

📍 東京都世田谷区北沢2-25-12

🛒 Recommended: Vintage American casual wear, Retro accessories, Unique denim pieces

💡 Insider Tip: Flamingo is one of Shimokitazawa's most iconic vintage stores. They have multiple branches, so explore them all. Look for unique graphic tees and well-preserved denim. Prices are fixed, but quality is high.

📍 東京都世田谷区北沢1-40-6

🛒 Recommended: Used vinyl records (J-pop, rock, jazz), CDs, Music memorabilia

💡 Insider Tip: Disk Union is a legendary chain for music lovers. Shimokitazawa's branch is known for its extensive selection of used records across various genres. Take your time to dig through the crates for hidden gems. Many records are in excellent condition.

Shimokitazawa Street Art & Alleyways

Shimokitazawa is famous for its bohemian atmosphere, narrow alleyways, and vibrant street art. The unique architecture and independent shops provide a colorful backdrop.

📐 Best Angle: Wander through the backstreets south of the station. Look for colorful murals, quirky shopfronts, and vintage signs. Capture the 'lived-in' feel.

📍 東京都世田谷区北沢3-26-4

🛒 Recommended: Affordable vintage clothing, Unique fashion finds, Upcycled items

💡 Insider Tip: This store is famous for its unique concept: you can bring in your old clothes to exchange for store credit, or simply buy from their curated selection. It's a great spot for budget-friendly and quirky vintage pieces. Check their Instagram for new arrivals.

Shimokitazawa Station Area

The area around Shimokitazawa Station, especially the redeveloped 'Shimokita Ekiue' and 'Reload' complexes, blends modern design with the area's indie charm. It's a hub of activity.

📐 Best Angle: From the pedestrian bridge overlooking the station tracks, or capturing the unique architecture of the new commercial complexes. Look for vibrant storefronts and people-watching opportunities.

📍 東京都渋谷区道玄坂2-29-1

🛒 Recommended: Trendy Japanese fashion, Youth apparel, Accessories

💡 Insider Tip: An iconic fashion landmark in Shibuya, catering primarily to young women. Even if you're not buying, it's an experience to see the latest Japanese youth fashion trends. Tax-free shopping is available at some stores.

📍 東京都渋谷区宇田川町28-6

🛒 Recommended: Souvenirs, Snacks, Cosmetics, Electronics, Novelty items

💡 Insider Tip: Don Quijote is a famous discount store chain, and the Shibuya branch is massive. It's open 24/7 and offers everything from daily necessities to quirky souvenirs. Great for last-minute gifts. Tax-free counter available.

Shibuya Crossing

The world's busiest intersection, an iconic symbol of Tokyo's energy. Watching the synchronized scramble of thousands of pedestrians is a mesmerizing experience.

📐 Best Angle: For a classic shot, head to the Starbucks on the second floor of the Tsutaya building (facing the crossing). Other great spots include the pedestrian deck of Shibuya Scramble Square or the Hikarie building.

Hachiko Statue

The famous loyal dog statue, a beloved landmark and popular meeting spot outside Shibuya Station.

📐 Best Angle: Stand slightly to the side to get Hachiko and the bustling station entrance in the background. Be patient for a clear shot.

📍 東京都渋谷区宇田川町21-1

🛒 Recommended: Stationery, Home goods, Beauty products, Travel accessories, Unique gifts

💡 Insider Tip: Loft is a fantastic multi-floor store for high-quality, stylish Japanese goods. It's great for finding unique souvenirs, innovative stationery, and trendy lifestyle products. Look for seasonal promotions and limited-edition items. Tax-free available.

Shibuya Scramble Square (Shibuya Sky Observation Deck)

An open-air observation deck offering breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo, including the iconic Shibuya Crossing from above. Especially stunning at night.

📐 Best Angle: From the rooftop, capture the Shibuya Crossing in motion, the Tokyo Tower, and even Mount Fuji on a clear day. The 'Sky Edge' offers a thrilling photo opportunity.

Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho Alley

This atmospheric alleyway, known as 'Drunkard's Alley,' is a relic of old Tokyo amidst modern Shibuya. Its tiny, lantern-lit bars offer a nostalgic and photogenic glimpse into local nightlife.

📐 Best Angle: Capture the narrow alley with its glowing lanterns and bustling small bars. Focus on the intricate details of the shopfronts and the warm, inviting glow.

📍 東京都新宿区新宿3-14-1

🛒 Recommended: High-end fashion, Japanese cosmetics, Gourmet food hall items (depachika), Souvenirs

💡 Insider Tip: The 'depachika' (basement food hall) is a must-visit, even just for browsing. It opens at 10:00 AM. Look for seasonal sweets and unique Japanese delicacies. Tax-free shopping is available for eligible purchases over ¥5,000 (excluding tax); present your passport at the tax refund counter.

新宿御苑 Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

A tranquil oasis amidst the urban jungle of Shinjuku, featuring Japanese, English, and French garden styles. It offers stunning contrasts between nature and the surrounding skyscrapers.

📐 Best Angle: From the Japanese Traditional Garden, frame the NTT Docomo Yoyogi Building against the serene pond and traditional tea house. The English Landscape Garden offers wide open spaces with cherry trees (seasonal) and the Shinjuku skyline.

📍 東京都新宿区新宿

🛒 Recommended: Electronics (Bic Camera, Yodobashi Camera), Fashion (Lumine Shinjuku, NEWoMan), Souvenirs

💡 Insider Tip: The area around the South Exit has several large electronics stores like Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera, offering tax-free shopping for tourists. NEWoMan and Lumine are great for contemporary Japanese fashion and lifestyle goods.

新宿駅南口 Shinjuku Station South Exit & NEWoMan

The modern architecture of NEWoMan and the bustling South Exit of Shinjuku Station offer a dynamic urban backdrop. The pedestrian deck provides a good vantage point.

📐 Best Angle: From the pedestrian deck connecting the station to NEWoMan, capturing the station's activity and the modern building facades. Look for reflections in glass windows.

📍 東京都中野区中野5-52-15

🛒 Recommended: Vintage toys, Manga and anime figures, Rare records, Retro video games, Unique fashion items

💡 Insider Tip: This multi-story complex is a haven for subculture enthusiasts. Mandarake stores are spread throughout, specializing in different genres. Explore every floor and corner, as hidden gems are everywhere. Many smaller shops are cash-only. Look for vintage clothing stores like 'Fake α' or 'Safari' for unique finds.

中野ブロードウェイ Nakano Broadway Interior

The labyrinthine corridors and eclectic shop displays of Nakano Broadway offer endless quirky photo opportunities, capturing the essence of Tokyo's subculture.

📐 Best Angle: Focus on the vibrant shopfronts, especially the Mandarake stores with their elaborate displays. The escalators also offer interesting compositional lines. Look for unique vintage signs and posters.

📍 東京都渋谷区千駄ヶ谷5-24-2

🛒 Recommended: High-quality Japanese goods, Fashion, Gourmet food (depachika), Souvenirs

💡 Insider Tip: The 14th floor, where Katsukura is located, is part of the 'Restaurant Park' with many dining options. The basement food hall (depachika) is excellent for last-minute gourmet souvenirs or snacks. Tax-free services available.

思い出横丁 Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane)

A narrow alleyway filled with tiny izakayas and ramen shops, retaining a nostalgic Showa-era atmosphere. It's a fantastic spot for capturing the gritty, traditional side of Shinjuku at night.

📐 Best Angle: Stand at either end of the alley and shoot down the narrow path, capturing the glowing lanterns, smoke from yakitori grills, and bustling small shops. Look for reflections in puddles if it has rained.

📍 東京都新宿区歌舞伎町1-16-5

🛒 Recommended: Snacks, Souvenirs, Cosmetics, Electronics, Novelty items

💡 Insider Tip: Don Quijote is a discount chain store open 24/7 (most branches) offering a chaotic but fun shopping experience. It's great for last-minute souvenirs, snacks, or quirky Japanese items. Tax-free shopping is available. The Kabukicho branch is large and well-stocked.

東京都庁舎 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Offers free panoramic views of Tokyo from its observation decks. At night, the city lights create a breathtaking spectacle, with views stretching towards Tokyo Tower and Skytree on clear nights.

📐 Best Angle: From either the North or South Observation Deck, capturing the sprawling city lights. Look for iconic landmarks in the distance. Wide-angle lenses work best here.

📍 東京都新宿区新宿3-31-4 山本ビルB1F-8F

🛒 Recommended: Japanese pressed vinyl (J-Pop, City Pop, Jazz), Used CDs and DVDs, Music books and merchandise

💡 Insider Tip: Disk Union is a legendary chain for music lovers. The Shinjuku Main Store has multiple floors dedicated to different genres. Take your time browsing, as you might discover rare Japanese pressings. They often have tax-free shopping for tourists on eligible purchases (check at counter).

新宿ゴールデン街 Shinjuku Golden Gai

A cluster of tiny, atmospheric bars and eateries, Golden Gai offers a glimpse into old Tokyo. In the morning, it's quiet and deserted, allowing for unique architectural and street photography without the usual nighttime crowds, fitting the 'avoid crowds' preference.

📐 Best Angle: Capture the narrow alleys, weathered wooden facades, and quirky signage. Shoot from a low angle to emphasize the density of the buildings. Early morning light can create interesting shadows.

📍 東京都新宿区新宿3-30-11 新宿高野第5ビルB1F

🛒 Recommended: Unique vintage clothing (dresses, jackets, shirts), Accessories, Retro fashion items

💡 Insider Tip: KINJI is a popular chain for used clothing, offering a wide selection at reasonable prices. It's a great spot to find unique pieces and align with your 'vintage stores' preference. Look for color-coded tags for discounts. Tax-free shopping may be available for tourists on purchases over a certain amount.

新宿思い出横丁 Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho (Piss Alley)

A charming, narrow alleyway filled with tiny izakayas and yakitori stalls, retaining a nostalgic Showa-era atmosphere. While best known at night, a quick walk-through in the early afternoon offers a unique photo opportunity without the evening crowds, showcasing its rustic charm.

📐 Best Angle: Focus on the intricate details of the small shopfronts, hanging lanterns, and the bustling (or quiet, in the afternoon) activity. A slightly elevated shot can capture the length of the alley.