Cityscapes
Rooftops
Urbex
What’s the Story?
Let us lead you into a world hidden above the streets—the rooftops of Tokyo. Experience a cyberpunk atmosphere straight out of films like Blade Runner and Ghost in the Shell, and find serenity as you look out over the neon-lit avenues far below.
What We’ll Shoot
We will find a number of locations that are well off the beaten path and shoot the rooftops and streets from above. We will learn tripod techniques as well as handheld methods for getting our shots. You’ll get coached on framing in order to compose images with depth and a narrative quality on this urbex photography workshop.
Where We’ll Explore
You foray into the night begins at Shinjuku station, the heart of the metropolis. We’ll explore dingy back streets and hidden alleyways to find our way to the rooftops of the city. We’ll go by metro deeper into the urban jungle to find unique vantage points from which to photograph the urban expanse. Step into your very own cyberpunk playground.
Featured Reviews
This is a must do in Tokyo if you are a photographer. I did two tours with Lukasz, Tokyo Vertigo and one in industrial sites. Lukasz took me to excellent locations that I would not have otherwise found myself, or been brave enough to go to as a foreigner. Lukasz also provided helpful guidance and feedback on shots. I never felt rushed and we took our time to get great shots at the locations. Lukasz also has an excellent knowledge of the history of Tokyo and its neighbourhoods, which provides interesting context to the sites you are photographing. Highly recommend!
I’ve been a fan of Lukasz’s work and so when I saw that there was a workshop on Tokyo’s rooftops, I jumped at that opportunity. It wasn’t just techniques that was covered, Lukasz is consistently conveying vibes that Tokyo has to offer. And being a fan of Ghost in The Shell, the Shinjuku skyline from Nakano just tugged at my heart strings. If anyone is interested in the Tokyo Vertigo workshop, don’t hesitate to sign up. I certainly had a great night. Just remember though, the stairs are narrow, and your calves will remember every single step.
Chase –
I recently joined the Tokyo Vertigo workshop with EYExplore and had an amazing experience. The locations were incredible and offered perspectives of Tokyo I never would have found on my own. Charles was a fantastic instructor — knowledgeable, friendly, and very supportive throughout the workshop. He gave great guidance while still encouraging creativity and individual style. I came away with some of my favorite photos from Japan. Highly recommended for anyone interested in photography or seeing a different side of Tokyo.
Rob –
This photography workshop is a fantastic way to get a different perspective of photography on the streets of Tokyo. Or should I say above the streets. With local knowledge of great vantage points and expert guidence with composition and night time exposure settings, this unique tour is a must. I can highly recommend.
Ci Yang –
I’ve been a fan of Lukasz’s work and so when I saw that there was a workshop on Tokyo’s rooftops, I jumped at that opportunity. It wasn’t just techniques that was covered, Lukasz is consistently conveying vibes that Tokyo has to offer. And being a fan of Ghost in The Shell, the Shinjuku skyline from Nakano just tugged at my heart strings. If anyone is interested in the Tokyo Vertigo workshop, don’t hesitate to sign up. I certainly had a great night. Just remember though, the stairs are narrow, and your calves will remember every single step.
Road51730330300 –
I went on two workshops on my recent trip to Tokyo. Tokyo Vertigo and the Tokyo Night Dive workshops. They were both hosted by Charles and both were incredible. Charles is extremely knowledgeable and gives you initial suggestions but is also supportive of your own vision and ideas as well. The spots he takes you to were perfect and in regards to the Tokyo Vertigo workshop – well you will get a chance to take photos from places most people never see or have access too. Both workshops were awesome and I would definitely try another one when visiting Tokyo again.
O8478DUpatrickl –
This was our second tour, we did the Tokyo Vertigo tour before. Since we did one already, it was easier to for us to communicate for, what interests us the most, what new things we wanted to explore etc. and Charles adapted the tour perfectly to our interests. I’m still relatively new to photography and having an experienced photographer on my side (not just a great location scout) was an a great benefit too. I’m really trying to make the tour an annual thing now!
Brendan M –
Lukasz is a patient and knowledgeable teacher with years and years of experience finding the best hidden place to photograph in Tokyo. I was in the Tokyo Vertigo tour and couldn’t have been happier with the experience. If you like night photography and urban exploration, don’t wait ~ book this tour as soon as you book your time in Tokyo!
I8022MArandym –
I consider myself as a hobbyist photographer and had a great time doing the Tokyo Vertigo workshop with Lukasz on November 2021. I highly recommend it! Lukasz took to me to off-the-beaten path locations around Tokyo. He constantly gave me tips on how to improve my composition techniques and even provided suggestions for future photography projects. If you’re looking for a unique perspective of Tokyo, this is the workshop for you!
Kip –
This is a must do in Tokyo if you are a photographer. I did two tours with Lukasz, Tokyo Vertigo and one in industrial sites. Lukasz took me to excellent locations that I would not have otherwise found myself, or been brave enough to go to as a foreigner. Lukasz also provided helpful guidance and feedback on shots. I never felt rushed and we took our time to get great shots at the locations. Lukasz also has an excellent knowledge of the history of Tokyo and its neighbourhoods, which provides interesting context to the sites you are photographing. Highly recommend!
Sander –
We had an amazing time with Lukasz during our Tokyo Vertigo. Lukasz shared a lot of tips and tricks with us and helped us to get some nice shots at the different locations. Really recommend doing a Photo Adventure with EYExplore. Definitely want to go back to Tokyo and willing to go on another Photo Adventure! Thank you again Lukasz!
Josh S –
I did the Tokyo vertigo adventure and had a fun time. Lukasz was great and showed me wonderful spots to photograph the city from above. He is very knowledgeable and helped me learn more about my settings and how to compose in ways I haven’t thought of. I highly recommend to book something with them if you are in Japan.
anmolkayastha –
I took the Tokyo Vertigo tour in May 2019 with Lukasz Palka. If you’re remotely interested in photography and cyberpunk elements I highly recommend you to take this tour. He taught me to compose better shots, ,shoot manual, DSLR techniques like zoom blur and multiple exposures. He’s very easy going and patient. Everything he does to make a picture has a reason. You’ll be on rooftops and each shot will be a banger. The locations are very under the radar and it shows how much time and effort they’ve put into finding them. Best thing I did in Tokyo.
Jeffery S –
Took the Tokyo Vertical tour last weekend, comprised of shooting Tokyo from interesting angles from high above. It was EPIC!
The guide was not only friendly and patient but provided excellent guidance on composition, camera settings and suggestions on how to get unique and interesting shots. He was very familiar with Tokyo and knew a lot of hidden locations to get shots I would not have gotten on my own.
He clearly has a passion for photography and the skills to back it up and made sure the evening was both fun and productive.
I would highly recommend EYExplore and if you’re looking for a unique photography tour, the Tokyo Vertical tour specifically.
E-P-I-C!
Lens_f28 –
Definitely an A++!! Lukasz was an awesome instructor, very knowledgeable with his craft, and willing to teach you different techniques that’ll take your perspective on photography to another level. Truly an amazing experience! Thank you!!
Bart V –
Onder leiding van Lukasz de nachtelijke fotografietour gedaan. De gids heeft kennis van de apparatuur waar je mee werkt en is zeer vriendelijk en ervaren. Deze tour is van beginners tot gevorderden en je komt op locaties die je waarschijnlijk zelf niet vlug zal vinden.
Bain S –
An excellent four hour photography extravaganza fromm rooftops and other high vantage points to give unusual photographic views of Tokyo. Lukasz was an excellent instructor teaching we experienced hobbyists new techniques and composition considerations. Highly recommended!
MissyTam –
It was definitely one of the best and most unique photo tour!! Our guide took us rooftops hopping in the Ginza district and we get to see and photograph a very unique nighttime Tokyo! It’s truly amazing and if you want to have photos that are different from everyone then this is a photo tour for ya!
BackPacker395795 –
I took part in a Tokyo Vertigo photo experience. Mainly because we did different types of photos than I usually do myself. But also because I wanted to see the city from places where I would normally probably never go alone ;) And boy I was not disappointed. Learned some new tricks, made awesome photos, spent an exciting evening. Łukasz was very friendly and patient. Helps when you need it, gives you time for experimenting with your own ideas and gives great advices. I highly recommend.
Chris H –
Had a great evening with Lukasz exploring Tokyo’s urban landscape. Learnt some great tips and techniques for night photography, whilst visiting some very cool and unique locations. Lukasz is a great teacher, and offers plenty of hands on advice. I learnt so much about photography in general and had a brilliant evening of adventure at the same time. Highly recommended, come for the photography stay for the views! Thanks Lukasz
Constantin –
Amazing tour to multiple unique photo spots. Lukasz is very nice and takes his time to explain you everything. It’s a great way to explore the city and at the same time learn about photography.
Katrine –
Lukasz was very friendly and helpful, and took me to places I would never have been able to find or access myself. I had a fun evening and ended up with some great shots.
P.J. –
Did two workshops with EYExplore during my time in Japan (Tokyo Vertigo and Inari After Dusk). Both Lucasz and Axel were extremely knowledgeable and were able to really help me (kind of a newbie) understand my camera settings better and really think through my shots. Highly recommend to any photographers in Japan and hope I get a chance to do more tours if I am able to return!
WilliamRice68 –
I initially did the night tour of Tokyo with Lucasz and found it so informative, educational and enjoyable that I subsequently went on the street photography and architecture tours during my stay in Tokyo. I learnt more on these tours than in 18 months of You Tube tutorials! Lucasz is not just an expert photographer but an excellent teacher, guiding with patience and enthusiasm at all times. I would highly recommend taking a tour with Eyexplore regardless of your level of experience, whether you just take photos on your phone and want to improve for social media or whether you are an expert looking for a new challenge you will find the experience rewarding. The guys here have been scouting locations for years and you will be taken to places that you simply would never find on your own.
Liam –
Lukasz is an excellent guide, offering insightful tips about photography and about Tokyo in general. His knowledge of the city is exceptional and his tour is worth every dollar spent.
Neil –
Lukasz shares his experience, skills, knowledge and creativity in a unique and engaging lecture and practical tour of the underbelly of Ginza and Shimbashi. I had a great time seeing tokyo in a completely different point of view while learning more about photography. This is one of the more unique way to enjoy Tokyo. I highly recommend it for photography enthusiasts.
Nnene –
I truly enjoyed my tour with Lukasz. It wasn’t just a tour, I enjoyed learning night photography and composing. He knows so much about the city, it was amazing see Tokyo at night from the rooftops. I highly recommend this tour. Love every minute of it.
Adam –
Loved our night! Thanks again Lukasz for a unique experience. We really enjoyed exploring the building rooftops. I would recommend this to all those visiting Tokyo with free nights :)
Dietmar –
This was a super event ! Lukasz will show you the secret locations on Tokyo’s rooftops only a local knows. Highly inspiring, highly recommended. He will also tell you what camera settings work best, awesome shots guaranteed. Make sure he shows you the work he did for Nikon!
Dirk –
Going up the rooftops with Lukasz was a truly unique experience I can highly recommend to everyone who is interested in photography, new perspectives and/or a view upon Tokyo not every visitor is able to take. Lukasz was a great and kind host who gives you all the support you will need and enriches the experience with his knowledge about photography, the city and its buildings. Thank you for this memorable trip, your support and your patience!
Tracy –
I can’t say enough about Lukasz. I was an hour late because I over slept and he went out of his way to accommodate me even though I was not his only client that night. Dont be late though! Its an awesome experience Lukasz is passionate about what he does and youll learn a lot even if you are already knowledgeable Highly recommended experience!
Alex –
Vertigo with Lukasz was a truly great and exciting experience in Tokyo! We visited some very scenic rooftop places with views one can take pictures on for hours. Lukasz is not only a very skilled photographer, he puts his heart and soul into cityscape photography which is why the result pictures are so beautiful. He is generous with his time and explanations, kind and easy going. I would recommend this experience for anyone with passion for photography who wants to learn landscape skills and is (or wants to get) comfortable with manual mode shooting. Thanks a lot Lukasz and best of luck for your future projects!
Brad –
This is a must-do if you’re visiting Tokyo. I couldn’t have asked for a better night photography/urban exploration experience. Lucasz is an incredibly knowledgeable and creative photographer who is great at bringing your own ideas to life. He also has a great sense of hidden gems within Ikebukuro and Ginza. I would definitely recommend this experience to anyone who would like to better their photography or who is interested in seeing a grittier, more authentic side of Tokyo.
Rebecca –
Lucas was a great guide and a fantastic teacher. I had learned so much about night photography and a whole new perspective on Japan and candid photography. Not only that, Lucas is great at connecting with us that we have now made a new friend who lives in Japan! This was a great adventure and well worth the time and money. Expect a lot of walking and charge your camera battery packs!!!
Jim –
A unique amazing experience not to be missed.
Norbert –
An amazing and great experience. Don’t miss this unique experience if you never trying urbex.
Kris –
This was a great evening and experience. We went to some really interesting places (including those in the example pictures) and Lucasz was a great guide and camera instructor teaching me a lot about using my camera past the automatic settings to get the best pictures inthe different situations that we were photographing. A truly unique experience and one very different to the touristy destinations that I went to during the rest of my Tokyo trip.
Aare –
It was an immersive and visually striking experience consisting of neat architecture, urban exploration and night time photography in a cyberpunk landscape. Experienced a whole different side of Tokyo that I would never have found by myself. Very highly recommended!
Xin –
Amazing and unique experience!I would love to tell all my friends come and enjoy.
MissyTam –
Rooftop hopping across all these buildings was really really cool – seeing/shooting Tokyo from a totally different angle was a very unique experience :)
Malcolm –
I did the Tokyo Vertigo tour with Lukasz – somewhere between urban exploring and one on one photo tuition. Lucasz knows some amazing places for rooftop shots of Tokyo, and is a really friendly and helpful guide – I learned a lot about photography, got some great photos, and got some exercise climbing stairs too.
Sam K –
You will be shooting within few minutes of meeting Lukas in locations would take you days to find if you had the time and energy. Lucas advises your camera settings and composition so even if you are a novice, you will be taking shots you would be proud of within minutes of the start of the walk. You will need manual exposure settings, so one word of advice, learn where all your camera settings are before joining the walk so that you can concentrate on capturing the shot rather than fiddling around in the dark. Thoroughly recommended. Many thanks Lukas.
Kevin –
I did the Vertigo Tour with Axel through the rooftops of Shimbashi and Ginza and it was fantastic. He is friendly, has plenty of local knowledge, and knows how to inspire photographers creatively. Thoroughly recommended.
Angela –
I came into the tour not really knowing what to expect. I just knew I was going to see some cool stuff and that was it. I feel like Axel went above and beyond to make sure my husband and I had a great experience. He not only showed us some of the coolest views of Tokyo, but he went out of his way to show me how I can improve my compositions and exposure settings. It was excellent. I came away super excited about my images and felt like I learned a lot about photography.
Debbie B –
I absolutely loved this tour. Shooting from rooftops was so much fun. Lots of steps to tackle, so be prepared! My guide was Lucasz and he was so helpful and took me to the best spots for some great shots! I would highly recommend this tour if you love architecture and nightscapes!