Photographs from a small group of islands
In fact so long as there are a few bits of cherry blossom still about, drinking on the street is not only socially acceptable, it’s sociable. Plus possibly even more staggering is the fact that it’s so incredibly civilised.
Thoughtfully provided seats in department stores are more often than not the domain of men. Reluctant shoppers who despite their best efforts get dragged out into the frightening world of ladies fashion and furnishings. A misery that to their great credit, some gallant souls just deal with.
Whereas others less gallantly just give up.
Video games and trains are all well and good, but arguably neither of them can light up a little lad’s imagination like an igloo. Especially so when one least expects to see one. Such as on a side street. In Tokyo. In spring.
A cliché it may well have become, but the humble cherry blossom is still quite rightly seen as symbolising the transient beauty of life. The ephemeral nature of which unfortunately doesn’t stretch to Tokyo’s crowds.
At this time of year, there are few things that can avert people’s eyes from the cherry blossom or their booze, but a fella in a frilly frock would appear to be one of them.
