In recent months I’ve been documenting old school Tokyo barber shops when out and about on photowalks. They are wonderfully dated establishments, with their colours, plants and signage making them an absolute joy to behold. There’s also the ever present barber’s pole too, which can seem like an archaic legal requirement, as pretty much every single exterior boasts one of some description.
Unsurprisingly a couple of those featured are quite clearly no longer in business, but the rest are still very much going concerns. Shops that will likely continue for as long as their aging owners can manage, which will hopefully mean many more years to come.
Denise says
These are beautiful and I’m totally in love with the first one! 🙂
Lee says
They really are special, aren’t they? And yeah, the first one is truly something else.
YesterdaysHero says
These are great, Lee. So many details to enjoy.
Lee says
Thanks a lot. Yes, so much to take in. Long may they stay this way.
cdilla says
Another most excellent collection. Glad I am retired now and can spend as long as I want exploring them.
I love the ones with the older conical signs with the textured glass enclosures, but number five is the clear winner for me.
I’m pretty sure you must have an agreement with a modelling agency for photoshoot extras work.
“Can I have a pistachio and black casual student today please”
“I need a smart cream and green lady for a walkby in an hour”
Lee says
Thank you. Same for me. Those older ones are fantastic. The barber in the last photo lamented that his had long since stopped working.
Definitely a lot going on in number 5. The colours came out lovely too.
Haha, those two did work out extremely well, particularly the green sweatshirt and shoes fella. Waited a little while for that, but the woman just appeared as I got in position to take the photo. Wish it was always so easy.
Linda says
I need to remember to ask you to take me to see the first or the last of this set next time I’m in Tokyo. Also someday I’d love to know why they often write Bar Ber as two words 🙂
Lee says
Those two in particular really are lovely. So much to like about them both.
Yeah, that’s a good call. So many adopt the two word approach. Likewise I have no idea why.
Richard says
Great photos, thanks! My fav is the guy waving at you.
Lee says
Thanks a lot. That was a lovely moment and very unexpected.
Odd-Egil Auran says
«Bar Ber» could have been a small bar! Nice to see these, and once again I spot a narrow house in Japan. 🇯🇵 💈