Discovering this old Tokyo tobacconist 18 months or so ago was a real treat, as turning a fairly nondescript corner complete with an empty plot, the wonderfully ramshackle structure that came into view was a genuine surprise. So unexpected in fact, that after taking some photos I was still so enamoured by it that I completely forgot to mark the location.
Fast forward to fairly recently and I tried to find it once again, but nothing appeared quite right when looking at maps online. Also, any spot that did seem even remotely possible proved the complete opposite when checked on street view.
The only option then was to go back to the area where I thought it was and explore properly. An approach that proved similarly unsuccessful, so as darkness fell, a friend and I gave up and headed for a few consolation beers. On the way there, and absolutely not where I thought the tobacconist was, we stumbled upon a little car park with a rare camera and screen combo. A set-up that caused us to briefly stop for a look. And, when standing there, noticing it was a new house on the corner, there was both relief and the awful realisation that I was actually in the exact spot where the tobacconist once stood.
Denise says
So sad as always……… 🙁
Lee says
Yes, it really is. Inevitable as always, but that doesn’t make it any easier to see.
YesterdaysHero says
More great documentary work Lee.
Lee says
Thank you very much. I was glad to find it again, but not so much in this way.
Tagomago says
Sad! Maybe exif data would have been helpful in this case. If you include geolocation (and there’s range), you always know where the picture was taken.
Lee says
Yes, it would. I do generally mark spots like this, or easily remember them. That said, I did get back there in the end, but sadly too late.
Richard says
Dilapidated is an understatement! Thanks for your diligence,
Lee says
Yes, it was rather! You are very welcome. Happy at least that I could find the spot again.