Ogikubo in Black and White
Ogikubo is a place of contrasts. For years, I’ve lived just a stone’s throw away from it, yet it’s a neighborhood I’ve rarely photographed. It’s a fantastic place to call home, but as a photographer, I’ve always found it to be a bit of a challenge.
The photographer's challenge
One reason is that getting there is a little tricky. It isn’t that far in a straight line, but it is a long walk. Going by train is more comfortable. But that means I need to make a roundabout train trip. In short, its location is not the best. The other thing is that it lacks photographic appeal. Compared to other places in Tokyo, it is a bit bland.
It has many ramen shops, though! That makes it popular with locals. And, there is a 24-hour supermarket, but that is for groceries. If you want real shopping, go to Kichijoji, Shibuya, or Shinjuku. Even Nakano offers more. As a place to enjoy a night out, Ogikubo is on the quiet side. More of a salaryman kind of place?
I think half the problem is that Ogikubo is old. Many of the buildings date from the 1970s or maybe even the 60s. It’s like modernity skipped it, rather like how Shimokitazawa used to be. Shimokita evolved. It developed into an area where Tokyoites could spend a night out. People enjoy looking through its many second-hand clothes shops. Ogikubo has never changed. It is an excellent place to live.
But there isn’t a lot for photography. If you are an avid street photographer and like working with people, that is different. Ogikubo can offer you something. That genre has never been my strong point, though.
In my case, I’ve never gotten many “keeper” photos. The area doesn’t have much to attract me. It does have a few bright spots, though.
The resident's paradise
However, while Ogikubo might not scream ‘photograph me,’ it excels as a place to live. The location is excellent. The station has the Chuo, Sobu, and Tozai lines that make other places in Tokyo accessible. Going east or west by train is simple. Shinjuku and Shibuya aren’t far away. Commutes to work are usually easy for most people. Nothing is too far.
Rents also seem reasonable by Tokyo standards. It has all the amenities you could need (including a Don Quijote and a 24-hour Seiyu supermarket). It can be a charming and quiet place with some temples, shrines, and a few small parks.
Finding the hidden gems
But Ogikubo has a few bright spots. One of them is the small but lovely Otaguro Park, named after its former resident, Motou Otaguro (1893-1979), who is said to be Japan’s first music critic. Incidentally, his final resting place is in the beautiful Somei Cemetery, which is renowned for its stunning cherry blossoms.
Otaguro is great in autumn. The grounds of the park are lit after dark for that season. Under lights, the leaves are beautiful. Locals flock to it.
Ultimately, Ogikubo remains a puzzle for me as a photographer. It’s a neighborhood that offers a quiet, convenient lifestyle with hidden pockets of beauty like Otaguro Park, yet it doesn’t shout for the camera’s attention in the way other Tokyo districts do. Perhaps I’m looking at it the wrong way. If you’ve found the photographic heart of Ogikubo, I would genuinely appreciate your tips and insights.
Photo gear for this shoot
- Camera body: Fujifilm X-T3
- Lens: Fujifilm XF 16-55mm F2.8 R LM WR
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External guides for Ogikubo
- Ogikubo: Ramen, Anime, History, Classical Music (on experience Suginami)