Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku Mirrors (Omokado)

Have you seen those jaw-dropping, kaleidoscopic photos from Tokyo that seem to defy reality? Chances are, they were taken at the mesmerizing entrance designed by Hiroshi Nakamura to the Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Omokado. This isn’t just a shopping center; it’s an architectural marvel and a photographer’s playground. As you ascend the escalator, you’re transported into a dazzling tunnel of fractured mirrors, reflecting the vibrant energy of the city in a thousand different ways. In this guide, we’ll share our top tips and tricks to help you capture stunning, Instagram-worthy photos of this iconic location.

Photography tips for the Harajuku mirrors

Whether you’re a seasoned pro with a DSLR or a smartphone photography enthusiast, these tips will help you get that perfect shot.

Timing is Everything: To avoid the biggest crowds, aim to be there right when the plaza opens at 11:00 a.m. For a different vibe, try visiting at night when the city lights add another layer of magic to the reflections.
Go Wide: A wide-angle lens on a camera, or using the panoramic or wide-angle setting on your smartphone, will allow you to capture the full kaleidoscopic effect.
Find Your Angle: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try getting low to the ground and shooting upwards to fill the frame with the mirrors.
For the Smartphone Photographer:
- Turn your phone sideways to shoot in landscape mode.
- Use your phone’s HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode to balance the bright lights from the street with the darker areas inside the mirrored entrance.
For the DSLR User:
- Be mindful of your highlights. The bright street outside can easily become overexposed. Consider using exposure bracketing to capture multiple shots at different light levels, but this might create problems if there is foot and car traffic in the background.
- A smaller aperture (higher f-stop) will help keep more of the intricate details in focus.

How to get to the Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Omokado

The Tokyu Plaza is located at the intersection of Omotesando and Harajuku, directly across from Laforet Harajuku.

Address: 4-30-3 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Nearest Stations:
- JR Harajuku Station (Yamanote Line): A 4-minute walk from the Omotesando exit.
- Meiji-Jingumae ‘Harajuku’ Station (Chiyoda and Fukutoshin Lines): A 1-minute walk from Exit 5.
- Omotesando Station (Ginza, Chiyoda, and Hanzomon Lines): A 7-minute walk from Exit A2.

Click the image below to see Tokyu Plaza on Google Maps:

Other Instagram-worthy spots in Tokyo

After you’ve conquered the mirrors, keep your camera ready for these other incredible photo opportunities:

Shibuya Crossing: Capture the iconic scramble from the second floor of the Starbucks in the Tsutaya building.
Senso-ji Temple: The vibrant colors of this ancient temple in Asakusa are a photographer’s dream.
teamLab Planets: Immerse yourself in a world of breathtaking digital art.

Area photo

Are the Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Omokado mirrors worth it?

Yes, they are definitely. Even more so if you can take a friend to model with you. The mirrors offer a unique and unforgettable photographic experience. With a little planning and creativity, you can capture images that people will envy. And here’s a final tip: after your photoshoot, head up to the building’s rooftop terrace for a peaceful escape and, on a clear day, a possible view of Mount Fuji!