Shooting a big Confucius in Tokyo
Yushima Seido in Ochanomizu has a towering Confucius statue. It invites photographers and history enthusiasts alike. Though the man never set foot in Japan, his teachings have profoundly shaped its culture. At 4.57 meters—this piece of art was once the largest of its kind. It stands testament to his enduring influence. Visit in the afternoon for the best light, and bring some lenses to capture every detail.
As I already mentioned the statue was once the biggest of its type in the world. Now it has fallen in the rankings as far larger ones exist. But it is still impressive.
The Taipei Lions Club donated the statue in 1975. There is so much detail in it. The forehead has lines and you can see the embroidery in his robes. It is a work of art. That makes it an interesting tourist attraction.
I recommend visiting it in the afternoon. Why? Because in the morning, the sun will be behind the statue casting it in shadow. Many trees are also behind it, so the area can be pretty dark.
Of course, you could also bracket your shots to counter the shadows. That’s what I did for these photos. I did it handheld, and the final results were satisfactory. One day I might take these pictures again, but with a tripod.
As the temple and statue are in quite a busy area, they draw quite a few visitors. You might even see the occasional artist there on a stool painting it. I’ve also spoken to quite a few Taiwanese tourists there too.
Best time to photograph the statue
I’d pick autumn as you’ll get some nicely colored leaves behind it. Every other season looks relatively bland.
Recommended lenses
Both wide-angles and zooms have their uses. It depends if you want to focus on details or capture the statue’s entirety.
Statue details
Height: 4.57 meters
Weight: 1.5 tons
Where is the Confucius statue in Tokyo?
Address: 1-4-25 Yushima, Bunkyo City, Tokyo
Here it is on a Google map:
Closest train stations:
There are two stations:
- Ochanomizu station: JR Chuo and Sobu Lines. The Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line also serves it.
- Shin-Ochanomizu Station: Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line.
Opening hours:
9:30 AM to 5 PM
Admission costs:
None
Conclusion
You’ll get your photos quickly at the statue so you won’t spend much time with it. But it should be on your list if you are looking for things to photograph in Ochanomizu. Remember to pop next door and see Yushima Seido temple too. Both are interesting Tokyo photo spots.
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
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