Why Asakusa Is Better Shot with a Wide-Angle Lens Than a Telephoto Lens
When taking photos in Asakusa, there are generally two types of images people want:
Photos where the background is blurred and the person stands out,
or photos that capture not only the person, but also the surrounding scenery and atmosphere.
So which kind of photo truly represents Asakusa?
Asakusa is filled with historic buildings, wide temple grounds, flowing crowds, and a unique atmosphere.
That’s why I believe a wide-angle lens is more suitable for Asakusa than a telephoto lens.
Why Telephoto Lenses Are Not Ideal for Asakusa
A telephoto lens is designed to bring distant subjects closer.
It creates a strong background blur through compression, making people stand out beautifully.
This makes telephoto lenses perfect for:
• Portrait photography
• Photos where the person is the main subject
However, most people take photos in Asakusa because they want to capture the person together with Asakusa’s iconic buildings and surroundings.
If the buildings don’t fit into the frame, or if they are heavily blurred,
the photo starts to lose its meaning as an “Asakusa photo.”
This is the main reason why telephoto lenses are not the best choice here.
The Difference Between Standard and Wide-Angle Photos
Photos Taken with a Wide-Angle Lens
Wide-angle lenses allow you to capture a larger area in a single frame.
They preserve the scale of buildings, depth, and the overall atmosphere of the place.
Photos Taken with a Standard Lens
A standard lens sits between wide-angle and telephoto lenses.
It naturally highlights people and is very versatile for everyday photography.
When comparing the two,
standard lenses tend to make the person the main subject,
while wide-angle lenses keep the background sharp and prominent.
The photos shown here were taken on the stairs behind the main hall of Senso-ji Temple.
Unlike the front area, this spot is quiet and less crowded.
Instead of focusing only on the person,
using the wide staircase and calm atmosphere creates a more powerful and “Asakusa-like” image.
Choosing a Lens Depends on the Photo You Want to Take
There is no right or wrong in photography.
The photo you like the most is the right one for you.
Even a slightly blurred photo can become a great image if it captures movement and emotion.
Sometimes, keeping a photo dark at night feels more atmospheric than forcing brightness by raising ISO.
However, if you want to:
instantly recall the atmosphere of Asakusa when you look back at your photos,
a wide-angle lens is a great option to remember.
About This Photo
This photo was taken on December 16, 2025.
I asked a woman from Brazil, who was wearing a traditional Japanese kimono,
if I could take her photo, and she kindly agreed.
Moments like this—where people and place come together—are exactly why wide-angle photography works so well in Asakusa.
Final Thoughts
Asakusa is not just a place to look at—it’s a place to experience and remember.
If you want your photos to bring back the sights, space, and feeling of being there,
a wide-angle lens can help you capture more than just a subject.
It helps you capture Asakusa itself.
