Photographs from a small group of islands
Due to it boasting expensive brands and flagship stores, Ginza is obviously a popular destination for shoppers. But at the weekend, with its wide, pedestrianised main street, it’s also a place where many people simply go to be seen. A chance to get dressed up, turn on the style and hopefully attract a little attention. And when it comes to the latter, some people are clearly more accustomed to it than others.
Tokyo’s far west is very different from the capital’s more central regions. It’s green, for starters. Plus comparatively at least, it really is quite sparsely populated. An area where it’s possible to meet bar owners in their 90s, enjoy genuinely striking views, and occasionally even spot the odd monkey.
A battered old Porsche, on the other hand, wouldn’t necessarily be on the list of expected sightings. There again, it wasn’t exactly a huge surprise to see one either. But a slowly rotting Pontiac parked next to it most certainly was.
Now wonderfully out of place and time, it’s probably the last place those who produced it all those years ago expected it to end its days. But sadly ending its days there does seem to be its destiny.
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.
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.
