In a park that has practically no other people.
With wonderful weather.
And in possession of a paperback.
Perfect?Â
Tranquil time out #57
Local festival lift
Living long term in Japan is not without its frustrations, and a phenomenally infuriating number of them there can be at times, but stumbling upon a sight such as this a few streets from home can,
with its happiness,
and history,
quickly turn a grimace,
into a grin.
And one which may even stay put,
long after the procession has lumbered past.
(Un)controlled convenience?
Old style honesty box-based convenience stores/stalls may not maintain the same mindboggling amount of merchandise as their modern-day models, but providing one has only gone out to get some goya, they are still good.
And also, for those that are far from honest, they are free.
Gate ball golden goodness?
Baseball and football are certainly the top ranking sports in Japan, but the way things are going, that may only be for the time being, as, with the population rapidly shrinking and the ever-increasing number old people living longer and longer, gate ball might just become the next national sport.
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And with Tokyo bidding for the 2016 Olympic Games, this decidedly ponderous pastime could conceivably join the roster and compete with the likes of anything equestrian related as a must see competition; especially so as it combines all the important aspects of a spectator sport, such as skill,Â
teamwork,
tension,
and the odd bit of intricate technique.
Along with even the occasional flourish when it comes to fashion.
Japanese workers working #18
For folks who like the jingle jangle of gold jewellery, Tokyo’s Ginza district has a veritable glut of such goods; all gettable for considerable amounts of cash — or indeed confidence.
But for those who have more modest means, or simply want something silver and simpler, there are still plenty of options available, along with the added bonus of staff who are as fashionable as their effects.
