Silky in Tokyo: A Lee Filters Super Stopper Review

Wakadakura Fountain Park fountains shooting water Lee Filters photo

In 2016, I added a powerful tool to my photography arsenal. I bought the Lee Filters 100mm x 100mm Super Stopper, a 15-stop neutral density (ND) filter. For those unfamiliar with this piece of gear, an ND filter is a high-quality piece of darkened glass or resin that attaches to the front of a camera lens. Much like sunglasses for your camera, it reduces the amount of light reaching the sensor. This simple function unlocks a world of creative possibilities for long-exposure photography.

Why use a neutral density filter?

By limiting the light, you’re able to use much longer shutter speeds, even in broad daylight. This technique is behind those photos of waterfalls with a smooth, silky appearance, or bustling cityscapes where moving people appear as ethereal ghosts. The Lee Filters Super Stopper, with its significant light-reducing power, is made for creating these dramatic effects, even in bright conditions.

Wadakura Fountain Park mountain fountains in operation

Where to test it?

Eager to test out my new filter with my Fujifilm X-T2, I set my sights on Wadakura Fountain Park in 2017. Nestled near the Tokyo Imperial Palace in Chiyoda, this park, with its manmade fountains and a waterfall, is a fantastic location for capturing dynamic long exposures.

Upon my arrival, the weather wasn’t ideal, with overcast skies dominating the scene. While I would have preferred a few more clouds to add texture to the sky, my primary goal was to experiment with the filter. After a solid four hours of shooting, I walked away with forty-two images. I only deleted two of them, which was a testament to the creative potential of the location and the gear.

Lee Filters Super Stopper performance

The Lee Filters system is renowned for its user-friendly design. The components easily screw, clip, or slide into place, making for a seamless workflow in the field. The included carrying pouches for the filters and holder also ensure they are well-protected within your camera bag.

True to their reputation, the quality of Lee Filters is exceptional. The optical glass is of a high standard, and while some strong ND filters can introduce a noticeable color cast, the Super Stopper performs remarkably well in this regard. It produced only a slight, easily correctable cooling effect.

Wadakura main foutains shooting water

Waiting for Wadakura's water

The biggest challenge for this shoot wasn’t technical, but rather a test of patience. The park’s two sets of fountains operate on a surprisingly infrequent schedule. The central fountains activate twice an hour, while the more modern waterfall and its accompanying fountains only come to life once every hour. Luckily, a helpful security guard taught me that tip.

My process involved setting up my composition, judging the light for the correct exposure with the filter. Then it was a matter of waiting for the waterworks to begin. Once a cycle ended, I would find a new vantage point and repeat the process. If you plan on a similar photographic excursion, bring a book or something to occupy your time during the lulls.

Wadakura Fountain Park waterfall in operation

Wadakura Fountain Park's history

This serene spot in the heart of Tokyo has a rich history. The original park was constructed in 1961 to commemorate the marriage of Crown Prince Akihito to Michiko Shōda.

In 1995, a new section with new fountains and a waterfall was added. These were to celebrate the marriage of Crown Prince Naruhito to Masako Owada. The canals that flow through the park beautifully symbolize these two generations of royal weddings.

Wakadakura Fountain Park with restaurant and Marunouchi buildings behind

Visitor information

  • Address: 3-1 Kokyogaien, Chiyoda City, Tokyo. The park is conveniently located between Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace.
  • Train Access:
    • Nijubashimae Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Otemachi Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda, Hanzomon, Marunouchi, and Tozai Lines)
    • Tokyo Station (Various JR and Metro lines)
  • Opening Hours: The park is open 24 hours a day. The fountains are illuminated from sunset until 8 p.m. in the winter and 9 p.m. in the summer.

Here it is on a Google map:

Beyond the fountains, the park also features a restaurant and a free-to-use rest area, making it a popular spot for office workers on their lunch breaks. Its proximity to the Imperial Palace and the Marunouchi district makes it an excellent starting point for further exploration.

People posing for photo in front of Wadakura Fountain Park waterfall

Nearby photo opportunities

Final thoughts

My first outing with the Lee Filters Super Stopper at Wadakura Fountain Park was a success. I’m already looking forward to returning, hopefully on a day with more dramatic cloud cover. A nighttime visit to capture the illuminated fountains is also high on my list.

Wadakura Fountain Park is a true gem in the heart of Tokyo, offering a unique and tranquil setting for photographers. It’s a fantastic place to practice the art of long-exposure photography and a perfect excuse to put a high-quality ND filter like the Lee Super Stopper through its paces.

Picture of Rohan Gillett
Rohan Gillett

Rohan has photographed Tokyo since 2011. He shoots it with his Canon EOS R5. The project will take more than one lifetime to complete.

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