Photographs from a small group of islands
Barely moving along a busy expressway with a bladder — or heaven forbid one’s bowels — about to burst is far from fun, and for some it would seem, the fear of a faux pa can drive them, quite literally, to distraction.
With that in mind, the 57-year-old driver’s presumably post-toilet proclamation of putting his foot on the accelerator instead of the break at the service station has, perhaps predictably, met with a certain amount of suspicion, and even been poo-pooed in some parts.
While the present giving pandemonium of Valentine’s picked up most of the media coverage last week, top Japanese pin-up Aki Hoshino still took some time out to parade her new footwear-themed photo collection. A book that takes a much needed look at the decidedly neglected niche of jogging and jubblies.
At the event, 30-year-old Hoshino spiced up the proceedings with some suitably saucy sneaker-based shenanigans, although despite her obvious attributes, she coyly complained that, “I didn’t have anyone to give chocolate to this Valentine’s Day. I hope I have better luck next year.”
A longing made all the more lamentable by the fact that she had lovingly prepared a couple of comely cupcakes to proffer to the right person.
Had one risen up from the crowd.
Despite Tokyo being positively packed with places to eat, many restaurants are fairly subdued, with subtle signs stating what’s on offer. Like this soba restaurant for example, where the only thing ostentatious is the automobile outside.
However, with the economy still faltering, and the aforementioned competition ever more cut-throat, some restaurant owners resist such refrain and arguably make more of a meal than is necessary when mentioning what’s on the menu.
(click image for full-sized ferocious-looking fugu)
With Japan’s love of cute characters, it’s perhaps not surprising to find that the humble hand towel (oshibori) now has its own hero, although Dobby The Oshibori is a little more disturbing than adorable.
That said, the funny-looking little fella does have his own manga, and unlike many characters, he is fairly well travelled,
and laudably likes the odd lager.
His creator, the Fujinami Towel Service, also has a museum, where there are other, more cuddly creations, such as penguins,
and pets,
although unfortunately, the famed phallus is suspiciously absent.
However, as luck would have it, this video is conveniently at hand to sort of redress the balance somewhat.
(via the FG Forums)
After last year’s record breaking lack of snow, Tokyo seems to be paying the price in 2008, with a seemingly weekly dose of the white stuff.
A situation that means housewives have to hurry to get the laundry out as soon as it’s light, utilising every available bit of space for the likes of bedding,
briefs,
and even, erm, brassica.
