Another year. Another day. Another batch of sports newspapers sold.

Photographs from a small group of islands
Another year. Another day. Another batch of sports newspapers sold.

The incessant heat and humidity make Tokyo’s increasingly long summers difficult to deal with. And on the countless days when it simply wears one down, there really don’t seem to be any benefits. Except one that is. The simple pleasure of sitting somewhere totally bereft of pretension and enjoying a wonderfully cold beverage.

Cycling is a hugely popular pastime in Japan, with massive numbers of lycra-clad Tokyoites heading for the city’s cycle paths and more wild western regions every weekend. But the bicycle also remains the most convenient method for many people to get about, whether it be to work, the local supermarket, or just the station. And what better way to enjoy this traditional form of travel than in equally traditional attire?

The breeze coming in from Tokyo Bay wasn’t very strong. In fact it wasn’t very cool either. But the hazy view of Rainbow Bridge and the distinctive Fuji TV Building, clearly made it a decent enough spot to while away a little time.

Japanese festivals are fascinating for many reasons, but especially intriguing are the participants. Men and women who one way or another don’t quite fit with the common image of the average salaried worker.
Something that is very much the case with this fella. A man meticulously turned out, and definitely not to be messed with.
