If you’re looking to capture an iconic Tokyo Christmas photo, look no further than Keyakizaka in Roppongi Hills. Every December, the street’s Zelkova trees are decked out in brilliant blue lights, creating a magical winter scene that perfectly frames the distant Tokyo Tower. Best of all, this stunning photograph is easy to get, and this guide will show you exactly how.
This is a seasonal photograph, as the lights are only on from the middle of November to Christmas night.
By the way, ever wondered about the name? “Keyakizaka” has a simple meaning: Keyaki is the Japanese word for the Zelkova tree, and zaka means hill. Together, they perfectly describe this “Hill of the Zelkova Trees.”
You have two main spots to capture this shot, both of which are right next to each other:
Keyakizaka is located on the south side of the Roppongi Hills complex. The easiest way to get there is by subway to Roppongi Station, which is served by:
From the station, walk to the south side of the main Roppongi Hills building to find the pedestrian bridge over the road.
Here are the locations on a Google map:
Location photo
This is a very popular location, so keep these tips in mind:
The view along Keyakizaka is an excellent and easily accessible Christmas-themed photo opportunity. No special gear is required, making it perfect for any photographer.
Do you have a favorite Tokyo Tower photo spot? Tell us about it in the comments below.
Date of photos: 20 December 2024
Rohan has photographed Tokyo since 2011. He shoots it with his Canon EOS R5. There are no plans to stop.
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