These three buildings have fascinated me for a long time. Partly because of their individual looks, but much more so because of how they work together. A sort of perfectly imperfect match in many ways.
That said, I always wanted a photograph with a person in the frame. A bit of interaction perhaps, or maybe some matching colours. In the end though, I arguably got a result that feels far more worthwhile — a resident.
Denise says
The house (?!) in the middle! 😮
Lee says
It’s quite something, isn’t it? Certainly compact.
Sean says
Such a cool scene. I admire your timing once again!
Lee says
There’s definitely something about it. Those buildings do work well together. Cheers. I’d just missed one opportunity, so very pleased to then get this.
cdilla says
That is such a wonderful mosaic of architecture, textures and materials. Perfect for the central germ of a Miyazaki film – like the bus stop was for his Totorro.
Is the left hand building a Tofu shop? It bears an uncanny resemblence in the structure of it’s front to this
https://www.tokyotimes.org/a-wonderfully-old-tokyo-tofu-shop-and-its-owner/
Interesting how such seemingly random styles and forms may have been chosen from some old architect firms limited catalog.
What is the little tikiesque figure on the slim building above the meters?
Lee says
Yeah, there’s so much to like about it. No idea what the little figure is though. A. nice little mystery.
It is indeed a tofu shop. Presumably a similar age to the other one. It’s like a lot of old Chinese restaurants. They share a lot of the same design choices too. There was clearly once a fairly set template and colour palette in regards certain kind of shops and restaurants.
Dale says
Regarding the man with the newspaper, do you find it awkward to photograph someone who is staring at you? I seem to recall this issue being asked of you in the past, but I don’t remember your reply. I am a travel photo enthusiast, and I have left behind numerous, great, photographs because the subject is aware of my actions.
Do you talk to them afterwards?
Dale
Lee says
I used to, but when I got a few shots that involved eye contact, I realised how much I preferred it. I feel it draws you in more, and I simply like the interaction. And so by actively trying to to capture it, the awkwardness slowly disappeared.
I usually nod and smile afterwards, and if the situation allows/feels right, say a few words. In fact I’ve had some lovely chats after such encounters.
In this case I didn’t. Mostly ‘cos I was on the other side of the road. It also happened so fast. I’d just missed a woman walking past in a striking red dress which would have made for an interesting shot. Then the fella appeared, quickly grabbed his delivered newspaper, spotted me, and then he was back inside again.
Richard says
‘Perfectly imperfect match’ very well describes the contrast between the three buildings. The middle one is showing its age compared to the other two.
Thanks for another interesting look at Tokyo!
Lee says
My pleasure as always. Yes, the middle one is looking a bit worse for wear. I’d love to go inside and see just how small it really is.