Ogikubo in Black and White
Photographing Ogikubo has never been high on my list of priorities. That is quite strange as I’ve lived near it for some years. 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 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.
The location is excellent. he 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.
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 got many “keeper” photos. the area doesn’t have much to attract me. It does have a few bright spots, though. One is Otaguro Park.
The park is small but lovely. It was named after Motou Otaguro (1893-1979). He is said to be Japan’s first music critic and owned the house on the grounds. Incidentally, he lies in Somei Cemetery, another beautiful place in Tokyo. That’s a great place especially for cherry blossoms.
By the way, Otaguro is great in autumn. The grounds of the park are lit after dark for that season. Under lights, the leaves are beautiful. Locals flood to it.
Ogikubo is a pleasant place to live as it has everything you need. But you might find better places in Tokyo if you are a photographer. Still, I could be completely wrong! That is most definitely a possibility. If you can set me straight, please give me some tips. I’d appreciate that.
Ogikubo in Black and White photo gear:
- Camera body: Fujifilm X-T3
- Lens: Fujifilm XF 16-55mm F2.8 R LM WR
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
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External guides for Ogikubo:
- Ogikubo: Ramen, Anime, History, Classical Music on experience Suginami