Despite Tokyo being a city of ramen lovers, there’s also a seemingly never ending number of ramen shops, so whether the owner of the little eatery below lost the battle of increased competition, or simply lost the battle against time, I don’t know. The wonderfully dated nature of the fittings, however, do seem to suggest it was the latter, and such an ending sadly wouldn’t be the only one I’ve photographed this year. Yet whatever the reason, the place still looks absolutely incredible despite being abandoned.
The narrow alleyway on the left led up to a couple of second floor rooms which were interesting enough. Or the combined cassette and 8 track karaoke machine was anyway.
But music player aside, it’s without a doubt all about those stunningly retro red chairs.
Coli says
Beautiful find Lee. I really like the pictures that show the chairs from the outside. Something about the patterns of stickers on the windows again the round shape of the chair are enticing.
Coli says
**against
Lee says
Thank you. I know eh? The colours and patterns are fantastic. A real joy to look at.
Interestingly, when the shop was open, there was a massive air-con unit covering most of the window, so it didn’t look so appealing at all. But now, in abandonment, it has rather oddly gone back to its original beauty.
Stephan says
Awesome find I love that last shot! 🙂
Lee says
Thank you. That’s my favourite as well. Very happy I could get inside to get the shot.
Richard says
These shops were all over Tokyo when I lived there about 50 years ago: on the side streets of the central city and nearby local train stations. I wonder how many are still operating, especially during these Covid times we are living through.
Thanks!
Lee says
Happy to say there are still plenty. Especially so around more local stops in and towards the suburbs. From the places that I know of, or have been to, age rather than anything pandemic related is the biggest reason for closure.
ellen says
I feel sad it has closed but that last shot is just so beautiful!
Lee says
It is sad. One more local old place gone… But thank you. The light was lovely which made it all work. Made it easy too!