Photographs from a small group of islands
Despite the legendary longevity of the Japanese, this beautiful bonsai, in for its periodical prune, has, at a sprightly century and a half, already seen off several of its tireless trimmers,
and looks meticulously enough maintained to meet many more to come.
Or more accurately, Japanese workers waiting for work.
Walking to work.
And finally, after way more waiting and walking than they would want, walking and working.
(click images for higher-res rickshaws)
Quite possibly the people below always practice outside, or perhaps on this particular day they just wanted somewhere different from the dojo, but either way, if one is tackling something traditional, then it’s arguably quite a treat to train in a setting that’s equally aged.
However, on a cold and cloudy winter’s day, standing barefoot and unbending as the sensei sets out the session can’t be much fun.
Especially as the bald one demands the team’s total attention.
Although when his back is briefly turned, there’s fortunately the chance for a furtive few words.
And, despite the climate and lack of clobber, even a little bit of laughter is allowed.
(click images for mega-sized martial arts)
As Japan’s population rapidly ages, traditional Coming of Age Day practices aren’t nearly so noticeable, with the number of those making their move into adulthood this year registering another record low — this time a meagre 1.33 million, which is a paltry 1.04 percent of the population.
However, while the streets yesterday weren’t exactly teeming with former teens in traditional attire, there were still a few bright spots among the vast swathes of silver seniors. The furisode favoured by females in particular offering a considerable amount of colour to the commonplace,
concrete,
and campus.
Plus even an excursion to meet family and friends or attend a function added a certain amount of charm to the station.
And indeed the street.
(click images for full-sized full citizens)
On or around January 1st, an absolutely huge number of Japanese go to either a local or large shrine to pray — a rough but nonetheless rigourous reckoning of mine putting the figure at approximately 87.34 percent of the population. However, due to Japan’s refreshingly relaxed approach to religion, the emphasis is much more on fun rather than fervour.
A large amount of said fun being focused around food,
as well as some fancy outfits.
Oh, and a fair bit more food.
Along with the longing for a bit of luck,
in some form or other.
And, quite possibly, the further addition of more traditional togs.
Plus, of course, a final bit of food to finish off the festivities.
(click images for super-sized sustenance)