Photo-tour Across Naruto with a Pro Cameraman

Last update : 18 May 2022

Written by GOOD LUCK TRIP

The city of Naruto is tucked inside a wealth of nature. On this tour you’ll see a number of iconic, scenic spots like the Naruto Strait while shadowing pro photographer Kenji Miyatake. Learn how to capture the breathtaking sights as they unfold before your lens with tips, techniques and guidance to help you snap your surroundings more beautifully. If you’re looking to learn how capture this perfect shot, this is a tour for you.

Ride a ferry and snap shots of untouched, daily life of Naruto.

The tour starts by meeting at JR Naruto Station, where professional photographer and winner of the Nikkei National Geographic Photo Prize, Kenji Miyatake, awaits you. His works have seen private photo exhibits in New York and worldwide acclaim for their striking focus on explosive light in volcanos, fireflies, glowing insects phenomenon and more. Your first stop while shadowing Miyatake is the Kurosaki ferry boat. It’s still used everyday, especially during morning and evening hours by commuting students. This same boat gives access to a gorgeous setting sun behind the mountains as the boat’s passengers fade into silhouettes. The boat ride is rather short so make sure to stay attuned to Miyatake’s instructions.

Board the ferry while listening to an overview by Kenji Miyatake (left).

Hear pro tips about angles and how to frame a shot.

Shot of the boat’s stern. Enjoy snaps of your favorite photos without disturbing the other passengers on board.

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Photospot Where the Setting Sun Lights up the Uchinoumi Waters

Your next stop along the tour is Shihoumi Observation Deck. On a day like this, the view from Horikoshi Bridge just ahead may be better so you’ll head there. Here Miyatake will share some framing advice to catch the sunset best depending on the season so all you have to do is focus on the shot. From here you can catch a shot of the rafts and the Uchinoumi waters. The waters are tucked between Shimada and Oge islands, making for a serene surface that reflects the setting sun. You’ll have a little extra time at this spot to check in on Miyatake’s best tips and practice your own shots.

Snap a shot of the Uchinoumi waters and the rafts from Horikoshi Bridge. Depending on the season, you may even take a trip up to the viewing deck with views in all four directions.

There’s plenty of time to shoot at Uchinoumi, so you can try and check the tips Miyatake shares with you as you go.

Here’s a real sample of a tour photo. The gentle waters glitter as the sun sets over them, showing off just how good your photo skills have improved already.

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Wrap Up with an Iconic Shot of Naruto, Onaruto Bridge and the Naruto Strait

Just about a 6 min. drive from Horikoshi Bridge you’ll find yourself at your final spot, Naruto Park. From here you can enjoy intimate views of Onaruto Bridge and the Naruto Strait, one of the areas most iconic backdrops. Your first batch of shots will be from atop the Senjojiki Observation Deck. From there you’ll head down to Aigahama to catch the same shot from down below. You’ll have full access to Miyatake’s tripod as well. By raising the ISO and lowering the shutter speed you’ll even have a chance to snap a few shots that are merely impossible with the naked eye. The tour is set to end here, but as an optional add-on you can visit Minami restaurant for a send off dinner with dishes that celebrate regional, seasonal ingredients (separate fee, 3,300yen per person). Enjoy an easy evening to kick back while comparing camera notes.