Trucks and motorbikes are utilised for the bulk of small deliveries in Tokyo, but the trusty old bicycle is fortunately still a firm favourite for some.
Photography
Stormy weather over Tokyo’s western mountains
The far west of Tokyo is far different from many images of the capital. There’s no neon. No immense swathes of concrete either. Not even many people. Instead, there are trees, mountains and also an abandoned train line. All of which make for an incredibly refreshing contrast. And on a day when a storm is fast approaching, those differences are made all the more striking.
A lovely old Tokyo bar owner
Old Tokyo bars are fascinating little places, with layers of grime and lines on their owners faces hinting at the history played out in them. Key elements that were thankfully in evidence at the eatery below.
In business for 68 years, the current Mama-san has been in charge for a mere 13 years. Her mother, who originally hailed from Hokkaido, opened it and was the proprietor for the other 55. A period that has seen an absolutely staggering amount of change, but inside the bar, time has pretty much stood still. And all being well, it will continue that way for countless more years to come.
Japanese men waiting
Or perhaps more accurately, Japanese men waiting somewhat awkwardly.
Urban Japanese farming
Tokyo may well be a bustling megacity of umpteen millions, but away from more central areas, it’s amazing how common it is to find concrete and crops in close proximity.
