Hakozaki Junction is perfect for light trail photos
Hakozaki Junction has been called a giant octopus. I agree. Its huge ramps look like tentacles, to propel it through water. Maybe this Kraken-like creature has landed in Tokyo? Well, maybe not! However you look at it, it is incredible engineering. Photographers love it for long exposures.
Why photograph it?
Hakozaki Junction is huge. Hundreds of cars, trucks, and buses rush through it every hour. They’ll leave light trails in their wake. It is dramatic!
People get this place, or they don’t. They’ll love it, or hate it. Many don’t see Hakozaki’s attraction. It’s that kind of photo. And I won’t blame you if you move on to something else. No problem and no hard feelings.
But some people love big engineering. I know I do. Anything that involves tons of concrete will interest us. The light trails are the icing on the cake.
How to photograph Hakozaki Junction
- As far as I know, there is only one camera position. It’s in front of the 7-Eleven store. From there, you can photograph all of Hakozaki Junction’s ramps.
- To convey the drama and details get your camera as low as possible. Mini-tripods are perfect for this place.
- The ramps are huge, so wide-angle lenses are necessary. They’ll also help you get really long light trails. I used the Fujinon XF 10-24 mm F4 R OIS.
- You want light trails so go at night.
- The area is well-lit so even low shutter speeds are problematic. Use a neutral density filter to get long light trails.
Photography problems
- Locals have told me that groups of photographers occasionally shoot there. Apparently, this place is famous for lovers of engineering. If you are unlucky, it might be crowded.
- There is a railing on the corner. Place your tripod carefully so it doesn’t enter your frame.
- Rubbish and small rocks can be on the road. Be careful of flying debris.
Where is Hakozaki Junction?
It is near Suitengumae Station. Leave via Exit 2; the 7-Eleven will be on your right, and the camera position will be in front of you. Here is it on Google Maps:
This photo will give you an idea of the area:
Conclusion
If you like light trails, engineering, and concrete, Hakozaki Junction is for you. It’s also good for people who enjoy looking at giant octopi or krakens. Leave questions and comments below.
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
More long exposure photography articles:
External sites about Hakozaki Junction
- The Urban Legacy (Yoshihiko Wada’s beautiful photos of Hakozaki Junction and others in Tokyo and Osaka)