Photographs from a small group of islands
Whether it be the old and new, rich and poor, or even foreign and non-foreign, Tokyo is a vast city of contrasts. Striking differences that are everywhere. Even in tiny local bars, where the mild demeanour of one patron, can seem hugely dissimilar to the possibly very murky past of another.
At 634 metres, Tokyo Skytree is an absolute beast. And, as a broadcasting tower, it is decidedly pragmatic rather than pretty in design. But its monstrous size does make for a fairly striking silhouette.
At the end of a long day, after another long week, post-work beers are always a well-earned treat before the last leg of what could also be a long journey home.
The red autumn foliage in this alleyway may well be fake, but there’s no doubting the colourful character of the fella passing through it. A man whose smile is big, and his summer wear bold.
People passed out on the streets in Tokyo isn’t an especially uncommon sight, particularly so on a Saturday or Sunday morning. As regardless of whether one is a young reveller or long in the tooth transvestite, it’s all too easy to get carried away with Japan’s wonderfully relaxed licensing laws.
This scene, however, is a bit different. There are of course the tired souls, but then there’s also a mannequin, sleeping bag and the fluffy green outfit. Almost like an odd mix of public sleeping and performance art.
