The Minato City Travel & Tourism Association is currently accepting submissions for the 22nd Minato City Tourism Photo Contest 2024, seeking exceptional photos capturing landmarks and natural scenes within Minato City. Minato City was established in 1947 when the former Shiba, Azabu, and Akasaka districts were merged. In recent years, redevelopment has progressed, allowing people to experience both modern cityscapes and historical sites. To complement the photo contest, we’re highlighting some spots where you can experience both the past and present of Minato City. Let these be an inspiration as you capture your own photos.

Tokyo Tower, a landmark of Minato City (4-2-8 Shiba Park, Minato City), was completed and opened in 1958, standing at 333 meters tall as a comprehensive broadcasting tower. It continues to attract many visitors daily. In October 2024, the observation deck reopened after renovations, and guided tours by staff have also started.

Every year, numerous photos of Tokyo Tower are submitted for the Minato City Tourism Photo Contest, showcasing the tower’s varied appearances as captured by different photographers. Whether you capture the impressive view from directly beneath or frame it with other buildings, discover the Tokyo Tower that speaks to your creative vision.

Founded in 1393 by Yujo Shoso, the eighth patriarch of the Jodo sect, Zojoji Temple (4-7-35 Shiba Park, Minato City) holds historical significance as the family temple of the Tokugawa shogunate. Today, it stands as one of Japan's major temples, preserving history and culture. The temple grounds feature important cultural assets such as the Sangedatsumon gate and the main hall, where rituals and ceremonies take place.

While there are many great spots for photography on the temple grounds, be mindful of other visitors and practice good manners while shooting. Behind the main hall, you can catch a view of Tokyo Tower alongside Azabudai Hills and Mori JP Tower, blending old and new iconic sites in one frame.

Atago Shrine (1-5-3 Atago, Minato City), founded in 1603, sits atop Mount Atago. The 86-step staircase leading to the shrine is known as the Stairway of Success and is renowned as a place believed to bring good luck and positive energy. The name comes from the story of Heikuro Magaki, a loyal retainer who rode his horse up the steep steps to pluck a plum branch for the third Tokugawa shogun, Iemitsu. It’s said that nearby business professionals often visit during lunch breaks, seeking blessings and prosperity.

The guardian lion-dog statues at the base of the steps are particularly photogenic. Framing them with the staircase or choosing unique angles is a great way to showcase your skills. The lush greenery and seasonal beauty of Atago Shrine create a different atmosphere at various times of the day.

The newly opened Azabudai Hills (Minato City, Azabudai 1-chome) debuted on November 24, 2023, as a modern compact city with offices, residences, hotels, museums, schools, and hospitals. It has quickly become a bustling new landmark. At its center stands the main structure, Mori JP Tower. At 325 meters with 64 floors above ground and five below, it surpasses Osaka’s Abeno Harukas as Japan’s tallest building.

The design of Mori JP Tower and the residential towers was spearheaded by the globally renowned architect Cesar Pelli and his firm, Pelli Clarke & Partners. The towering structures are impressive from both low angles and distant views. Experiment with reflections and dynamic compositions for dramatic photos.

Completed in 1995, the Takeshiba Passenger Ship Terminal (1-16-1 Kaigan, Minato City) connects to the Izu and Ogasawara Islands. Located next to Yurikamome’s Takeshiba Station, it’s surrounded by office buildings, hotels, and restaurants, along with a seaside park. The mast monument in the central plaza, modeled after the training ship Nippon Maru’s mast, is a symbol of the terminal.

The terminal has many photo-worthy spots, including decks and plazas. Check out the official website for more recommended photo locations.

Completed in 1993, Rainbow Bridge connects Shibaura and Odaiba and stands as the largest suspension bridge in the Tokyo metropolitan area. With its towers rising 126 meters above the sea and a length of 798 meters, it’s officially called the Tokyo Port Connecting Bridge. The bridge accommodates the Yurikamome line, Metropolitan Expressway Route No.11 Daiba Line, and pedestrian pathways. The bridge’s lighting display runs year-round, with different patterns in summer and winter.

As a symbol of Minato City’s waterfront, Rainbow Bridge can be photographed from various locations, including Hinode Pier, Shibaura Pier, Odaiba Marine Park, and Toyosu Gururi Park. Capture an emotional shot wherever you find the best view.

Opened in 1996, DECKS Tokyo Beach (1-6-1 Daiba, Minato City) is a popular urban shopping mall featuring attractions such as Madame Tussauds Tokyo and Tokyo Joypolis, as well as the nostalgic Daiba 1-Chome Shopping Street. Year-round illuminations light up the night, creating an enchanting atmosphere. The highlight is the Odaiba Memorial Tree, a 20-meter-tall living tree that’s a must-see.

The illuminated Odaiba Memorial Tree, located between DECKS Tokyo Beach and Odaiba Marine Park, is an ideal photo spot. Combine it with the night view of Tokyo Bay for some truly stunning photos.

These are some photo spots that capture both the modern and historical sides of Minato City, but there are plenty more to explore. The 22nd Minato City Tourism Photo Contest 2024 is open to everyone, not just residents. Grab your camera or smartphone and head to Minato City to capture its essence. There are general and high school student divisions, and winners will receive luxury prizes. Winning photos will also be displayed at FUJIFILM SQUARE and the Minato City Tourism Information Center. We’re looking forward to seeing your photos that showcase the charm of Minato City!

For details on how to enter the 22nd Minato City Tourism Photo Contest 2024,
visit: https://visit-minato-city.tokyo/ja-jp/news/578