This invention provides an image pickup unit equipped with an image pickup device, an objective lens, and a prism that has a reflective surface. The image pickup unit includes: a projecting portion that is an area at which the image pickup device projects to the rear from the prism； a terminal portion provided on the projecting portion； a flexible printed wiring board that extends along the prism and the projecting portion； an image pickup device connection terminal portion formed on a face that faces the projecting portion of the flexible printed wiring board； and a cable connection terminal portion formed at an area that extends over the projecting portion of the flexible printed wiring board. The terminal portion and the image pickup device connection terminal portion are joined in an opposed state. An electronic component is mounted on a face on an opposite side to the reflective surface of the flexible printed wiring board.
