The graffiti wasn’t a surprise — it’s what I was there for. The view looking up towards the lift, on the other hand, most definitely was.
The quiet intimacy of an old Tokyo bar
Last year, I posted this series of photos from Shinjuku’s Omoide Yokocho, or Piss Alley as it’s often known. Along with the images, I also tried to explain how the huge increase in tourism over the last few years has changed it — or at least sort of changed it anyway.
Basically it’s way busier than it used to be, and yes, the atmosphere can be quite different. But then again, go there on the right day, at the right time, and the alleyway’s former intimacy can still be found, complete with fascinating hints at conversations that will remain forever unknown.
Modern and traditional Tokyo in two frames
A traditional setting for what seems like the now equally traditional selfie.
Reflections of Tokyo past and present
A change of emperor on Wednesday marked a changed of era. It was goodbye Heisei and hello Reiwa, which will result in calendar and document changes, but in regards day-to-day life, not much else.
Also, such era changes are positively glacial when compared to the urban and societal shifts that Tokyo, and Japan in general, are experiencing. Pressing, and for some perplexing changes that will continue apace long after the pomp and circumstance of the last few days has passed.
Tokyo window display wonder
