Standing guard beneath the Mori Tower, the Maman spider sculpture is one of Tokyo’s most unforgettable sights. For some, its towering legs and shadowy form are a cause for shudders. For others, it’s a marvel of art and engineering.
The creation of sculptor Louise Bourgeois, Maman, is an iconic stop for photographers and art lovers alike. But capturing its intimidating scale and intricate detail can be a challenge. Dare you stand beneath it for the perfect shot? Here’s how to capture this landmark, even if arachnids aren’t your thing.
The first time I saw Maman, I was creeped out. But the story behind it transformed my view. Bourgeois created the sculpture as a tribute to her mother, who was a weaver. She saw spiders as protectors. They are clever, patient, and nurturing.
Look closely, and you’ll see twenty-six marble eggs nestled in a sac under its belly. The sculpture itself, constructed from bronze, stainless steel, and marble, has a powerful presence. With its long, slender legs, it can almost feel like a Martian tripod from War of the Worlds—minus the deadly ray gun, of course!
Maman is one of only seven such sculptures in the world. Here are four tips to make your photo stand out:
1. Go Wide and Get Low (The Classic Shot)
Use a wide-angle lens (or the wide-angle mode on your phone) and position yourself directly underneath the egg sac. Shoot upwards to capture the legs spreading out dramatically against the backdrop of Roppongi Hills Mori Tower. This angle emphasizes its monstrous size.
2. Play with Light and Time Morning
Arrive early for soft, even light, and fewer crowds, allowing you to experiment with angles freely. Keep in mind the courtyard is open from 7 a.m.
Golden Hour: In the late afternoon, the setting sun can cast a beautiful golden glow on the bronze sculpture.
Night: At certain times of the year, Maman is lit. The lights around the sculpture create a dramatic, moody effect against the sparkling city lights.
3. Focus on the Details
Don’t just shoot the whole spider. Get closer and capture the texture of the bronze legs or the smooth marble eggs in its belly. These detail shots tell a richer story.
4. Add a Human for Scale
It’s hard to convey just how massive Maman Spider is in a photo. Ask a friend to stand near one of the legs or directly underneath the body. This immediately gives the viewer a powerful sense of scale.
Location: The sculpture is in the public plaza at the base of the Mori Tower in Roppongi Hills.
Plaza opening hours: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Address: 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo
Closest Train Station: Roppongi Station (Toei Oedo Line and Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line).
Best Exit: Take Exit 1C. You will emerge from the subway directly into the plaza, and the spider will be impossible to miss.
Here it is on a Google map:
Now you have the story and the techniques to capture your own stunning image of the Maman spider. Whether you see it as a nurturing mother or an alien invader, it’s a subject that begs to be photographed.
Have you photographed Maman? Share your tips or your favorite photo in the comments below.
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
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