Omotesando in Black and White
My original plan for that 2020 afternoon had been simple: photograph a specific art museum near Gaienmae station. But Tokyo had other ideas. An impenetrable wall of traffic made the shot impossible. Frustrated, I tried a backup spot nearby, only to meet the same problem. With plans in tatters, I needed a new destination, fast.
My mind immediately went to Harajuku. An easy and inspiring walk along Omotesando waited for me. As I headed over, I noticed the sky was a flat, unbroken sheet of grey. A challenge for color, but perfect for black and white. I set my camera to the Acros film simulation, eager to capture the street’s dramatic shapes and textures.
Why is the street named Omotesando?
Many people wonder about the origin of the name. “Omote” can mean front or main. “Sando” is a road that leads to a shrine. They are all over Japan.
This Omotesando leads to Meiji Jingu. The shrine is dedicated to one of Japan’s most famous emperors. Millions of people visit it each year.
The street wasn’t always fashionable
Until the early twentieth century, Harajuku and Omotesando were mostly farmland. Rice was the main industry. However, once Meiji Shrine was completed, things changed. Many businesses sprang up to cater to the influx of visitors. After the war, it became even busier when nearby Yoyogi Park housed American forces.
Photographing Omotesando
Over time, the street evolved into today’s center of Japanese fashion. Big-name fashion brands like Louis Vuitton, Boss, Gucci, and Dior are there. If you like expensive shopping, you’ll love Harajuku and Omotesando. Explore, and you’ll find reasonably priced places too, but the image at least is high-class.
I’m not a fashion guy, but those shops play a role in why I go to Omotesando. Do you recall me criticizing Tokyo for having bland architecture some time ago? Well, the good ones can be found here. It is a rare spot in the city. But we need more.
Many newer buildings are breaking away from the standard glass and concrete boxes. I go to see them. Many famous architects have worked on Omotesando. My favorite building is the Hugo Boss building. I think it reflects the brand’s style. The concrete oozes chic.
I wanted to shoot in color for this article, but it was completely overcast. So it seemed a great time for black and white. As always, I used the Acros film simulation. I love the extra contrast it adds.
Anyway, I enjoyed my afternoon. It didn’t work out as planned, but it is always good to photograph beautiful places and buildings. One day I would like to do it in color, though! That would be something different.
Conclusion
Once again, my photography plans went astray. But an alternative area was at hand. Having a backup plan ensures your day never goes to waste. It comes from years of knowing your city.
If you have any questions or comments, leave them below. I would also like to hear any thoughts about Omotesando’s buildings and architecture. Have you noticed any changes to the area over recent years?
My Omotesando photo gear
- Camera body: Fujifilm X-T2
- Lens: Fujifilm XF 16-55mm F/2.8
Date of Photos: 17 July 2020
More Harajuku articles
External related websites
- Aoyama and Omotesando area travel guide (on Go Tokyo)