How to photograph Tokyo like a local

See how photographer Andrea Fazzari has captured inimitable shots of Japanese landmarks, as well as local designers, artists and cultural icons in Tokyo Chic, her new book published by Assouline

As one of the most populous cities in the world, Tokyo is a global epicentre of art, design, fashion, and food. Tokyo is also home to an incredible array of talents, tastemakers, and creatives, including Andrea Fazzari, an award-winning photographer and author of the forthcoming book Tokyo Chic, published by Assouline.

“Books about Japan do not usually show interesting people at home or in their private lives,” shares Fazzari, who won the prestigious James Beard Award in the US for her previous book, Tokyo New Wave: 31 Chefs Defining Japan’s Next Generation. “I wanted to share one of my personal versions of Tokyo by photographing some of these people so that readers around the world could better understand the city and its distinct allure.”

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Above The silk hardcover of Tokyo Chic makes it a standout decor piece in itself

Published by Assouline as part of their signature Chic travel series, Tokyo Chic showcases the ornate architecture, mouth-watering dining scene, and vibrant culture of the Japanese capital through the stories of local designers, musicians, and artists. “Almost all of the people I chose to include in Tokyo Chic have been a part of my life here,” continues Fazzari, who has been a Tokyo resident for a number of years. “They are dynamic examples of Tokyo life and convey the spirit of the city; all are creative in some way, mostly in the arts but not exclusively.”

Tokyo Chic presents readers with intimate, never-before-seen photographs accompanied by heartfelt narratives and quotes about Tokyo’s cultural icons, including a photograph of famed architect Kengo Kuma preparing tea in his home. “Having a personal connection to each of my subjects allowed for greater trust,” remarks Fazzari. “Tokyo Chic will present readers with a more personal and private view of the city rather than a touristic one.”

Here, Fazzari shares more about her journey as a photographer and gives us a sneak peek at her new book, Tokyo Chic.

Above Calligrapher Mohri Suzuki at work in his studio in Kagurazaka

Above New Year’s osechi, or foods for luck and prosperity, are part of a tradition that started in the Heian era

Can you tell us about your journey as a photographer? What initially sparked your interest in photography and how has your passion evolved over the years?
Photography has been a strong hobby ever since my freshman year of university, when my parents gave me a camera. I grew up in a family that very much appreciated culture and art in all its forms; my mother was an especially visual and aesthetic person who surrounded herself with beauty, and she greatly influenced me. After graduation, I began my professional life in fashion, working in advertising and public relations for Giorgio Armani and Dolce & Gabbana, then publicity for Miramax Films. Subsequently, I moved to Paris. It was not until I unexpectedly returned to New York City due to my father’s illness at the time, that I realised I wanted to become a professional photographer.

I saw a Travel + Leisure magazine and suddenly knew, as I flipped through it, that I should make [my dream of becoming a professional photographer] happen. So I placed a cold call to the magazine simply to ask for information about how to become a photographer, the photo editor granted me a meeting, and at the end of it, offered me a job. I accepted without hesitation. I began building my portfolio, and before I knew it, I was receiving feature assignments from other magazines. Now in addition to photography, I also write. I photographed, wrote, and co-designed all three of my books on Japan, and soon I will direct [short films].

Above The tattooed back of bonsai master Teppei Kojima

Above Detail of botanical arrangements at Tsubaki in Meguro

How would you describe your photographic style and how does it manifest in the images featured in your book?
My photos are created with beautiful painterly light. Light quality is the most important aspect of my photography. I admire many painters, among them Caravaggio and the concept of chiaroscuro. I do not use special techniques or apps which alter and airbrush who or what is actually in front of me. I am interested in authenticity, not artifice.

Above A collection of colorful vintage kimonos at Oedo Antique Market

Above Making soba at Kanda Matsuya

What are some of your favourite, underrated places in Tokyo to photograph?
Check out Mizen in Minami-Aoyama for a unique and very special line of contemporary clothing for women and men made from handmade kimono fabrics. Second, visit Akasaka Asada in Akasaka, a traditional ryotei where geisha also perform. Next, go to Folklore in Hibiya Okuroji, an attractive lounge that specialises in sake and shochu exclusively. Fourth, stop by Enshu-Ryo Sado in Kagurazaka, which is a special place to learn about the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Lastly, visit Shuhally Teahouse in Daikanyama for a modern take on the tea ceremony.

Above Geisha Kikuko at home getting ready for work

Above Sumo wrestlers sweep the sand floor of the ring at Tamanoi Beya

What was the most memorable experience or encounter you had while working on this project?
It is challenging to choose just one encounter, but I would say that meeting matron geisha Kikuko at her home was one of the standouts. Usually, geishas are seen only fleetingly as they scamper by on their way to an appointment, or at a performance. Kikuko has been a top geisha for most of her life, so speaking to her was incredibly insightful. She proudly shared her perspective and life experience which are unlike anyone else’s, and she also shared her stunning kimono collection with me. Each kimono had a story.

Above Panoramic view from Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Above Thanks in part to corporate offices and shops, Shibuya Crossing is the busiest intersection crosswalk in the world

If you had to pick just one story from this book to highlight, which would it be and why?
One portrait I would highlight is that of Kaiji Moriyama, the stunning modern dancer. I spent a day with him at his studio as he rehearsed. What a breathtaking performer he is. And his passion was so intense that it hit me like a wall as soon as I opened the studio doors. Watching him dance is to witness pure beauty. I write about him in Tokyo Chic’s introduction.

Above Meant to bring prosperity and good fortune, kumade, or traditional good-luck ornaments, are displayed at the Tori-no-Ichi Fair

Above The façade of Meiji Shrine in Shibuya

What message or impression do you hope readers will take away from Tokyo Chic?
It is my hope that readers will feel a bit of the love and admiration I feel for Tokyo and Japanese culture. Japan often seems very enigmatic and even mysterious to travellers, and they do not usually have the opportunity to engage more deeply with Tokyo natives. Tokyo Chic gives readers both a more personal and stylish take on this magnificent place.

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Credits

Photography

Andrea Fazzari

Topics

Tokyo Assouline Andrea Fazzari Books Photography

Tatler Asia

Ask a photographer: How to photograph Tokyo like a local