A good few years ago, this kimono-clad old lady would have simply blended into the crowd; her clothing and age making her just like many other people. Now, however, on a platform surrounded by less traditionally dressed travellers, she not only stands out, but somehow looks completely lost. Or, at the very least, lost in time.
Kat says
What I love about Japan is that it’s still accepted to wear traditional clothes like that. In my country if you go out wearing traditional clothes, you’d get stared and even laughed at.
Lee says
Yes, it is good that the kimono is still worn. And perhaps even more importantly, appreciated.
Andrew J says
Love this photo, especially the contrast between the lady and the young girl in the background.
Lee says
Thanks Andrew. Must admit, I really like it myself. There is/was something about her, there, on that platform.
Jeffrey says
The “goggles” and gloves are a great combination, and the cane make her almost Chaplinesque.
Lee says
Yes, it’s an interesting mix, isn’t it?
James says
i’m glad her hair isn’t purple as well…
Harvey says
It blew my mind how much traditional clothes are still worn in India, it’s even more than Japan. You see ladies dressed in Saris -everywhere-. Love it.
Lee says
I can speak for India, but I’m the same with the kimono here. They never fail to fascinate.
AV says
India… japan… traditional clothes…. accepted in both places if deployed by vastly different head-counts, but Japan alone makes a bewildering point: it also has a substantial hand in very, very current fashion. Not that India doesn’t, but it isn’t quite the same. I used to think that the two don’t mix, overlooking the evidence right under everyone’s noses [including mine, of course]! Not that I know how it’s done; ‘guess one needs to have a good ear and be in the right place… [or read the right blog, as it were]
Peter Kane says
One thing I love about Japan is how the old and the new, east and west are so intertwined. This photo is a perfect example.
Lee says
Yes, it’s an engaging mix, isn’t it? One that seems totally natural too.
imjackhandy says
I love the expression on her face. I can’t tell if she disapproves of you taking her picture or she’s posing for you.
Lee says
I actually have a photo of her just before this one, when she was looking away, but it doesn’t work as well. When she did see me though, thankfully she didn’t seem to mind at all.
Troy Worman says
Fabulous!
mimi says
I love this photo. Really shows how Japan is a nice blend of traditional and modern lifestyle..