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May 08 2019 6 Comments

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.

a quiet and intimate old tokyo bar

Categorized: Food and Drink, Photography

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Harry says

    5/8/2019 at 12:31 pm

    I always like your bar shots they have so much atmosphere. This one seems more serious! 😉

    Reply
    • Lee says

      5/8/2019 at 6:15 pm

      Thank you. Yes, not much in the way of smiles, is there?

      Reply
  2. YTSL says

    5/8/2019 at 2:51 pm

    Are there other Yokocho in Tokyo that are similarly atmospheric but not so known to tourists? I understand if you would want to keep their names secret but it would be nice to learn of other options.

    Reply
    • Lee says

      5/8/2019 at 6:24 pm

      There are a couple of alleyways near Oimachi station which are really interesting. Not touristy either.

      I’ve only ever been in the daytime, and had lunch in some very old school places. There are bars as well though, so it should be fairly lively in the evening too.

      Either way though it’s a fascinating little spot.

      Reply
      • YTSL says

        5/8/2019 at 11:00 pm

        Thanks for the tip!

        Reply
        • Lee says

          5/9/2019 at 11:40 am

          You are very welcome!

          Reply

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