Recently on Tokyo Times, I’ve posted photos of character-filled old homes, bars and shops that have either been abandoned, or simply demolished. Such scenes are sad, and also sadly inevitable, especially when one considers the age of some of the owners.
That said, there are thankfully many that still survive, and the fishmongers below is happily one of them. First opening its doors for business way back in 1935, it looks absolutely fantastic, especially with the old water pump still in situ, and still in use. So when walking by last week, I couldn’t resist another shot of the owner working away. A photo that turned out to be remarkably similar to the one I took almost 2 1/2 years ago. And all being well, there’ll be a further shot in another few years.
On a similarly positive note, Tokyo Times has had some technical issues over the last few weeks with caching and commenting. I’m happy to say, however, that a server and setup change over the weekend has finally resolved them, and with the summer holiday slowdown also done and dusted, it’s full steam ahead once again.
Ken says
I always enjoy wandering around the side streets looking at these little shops. There was one in Suitengumae where the owner made and sold shamisens but that has gone now. The oddest was one that sold car seats and nothing else so I really couldn’t see how he could make a living.
Paul Hédouin says
One of my favorites !
The place looks really old but clean. Love the wood shelves.
Best regards.
Lee says
@Ken Yeah, the side streets can offer so many interesting little sights and experiences. That’s funny. I’ve seen plenty of niche shops in Japan, but just car seats is quite something.
@Paul Cheers! Yeah, he runs a clean ship that’s for sure. And likewise. The pump has to come first, but those shelves are a very close second.
Evan says
Wonderful. Seems like an life with many constants, including a happy person.
Looking at the old and new pictures led me to think of the childhood game of finding what’s different between two images. To summarize: Very little.
Lee says
Cheers. Yes, he seems thoroughly content with his profession. Similarly, he also seems like a thoroughly decent man.
I know eh? Wish I had a photo from further back now to do the same thing. But I suspect it would still be the same result.