Many traditional shops in Tokyo open out onto the street — a lovely communal element that further cements their ties to the local neighbourhood. In older areas of the city, a surprising number of them still survive too, although there can’t be many that boast a working, and still in use water pump like the fishmonger’s below. A feature that has presumably been in place since the shop opened for business back in 1935.
Kate says
Wow, that’s gotta be rare. Very interesting to see and totally not my image of Tokyo!
Lee says
Yeah, I reckon so. Seen a good number of similar water pumps, but never any in a shop. And actually in use too.
Linda says
Wow. Seriously, I would leave more comments if I could think of more eloquent ways to express my amazement at the places you find, but this one definitely calls for a Wow.
Linda says
Ha, two Wows in a row, I guess I was right!
Lee says
Haha, yes, double wows definitely mean it’s a bit special!
I’ve known about this shop for ages, but never managed to get a shot of him using the pump. Was determined to get one though, so planned a walk that took me past the place again. And this time I finally got it. A very nice feeling!
Al says
Ha, I’ll make it 3 Wows! I Love his expression too. He looks so pleased! 🙂
Lee says
Yeah, he does, doesn’t he? Lovely fella. He didn’t mind me taking the photo, and he was more than happy to chat for a little while. Pity I don’t live nearby really as it’d be nice to shop there sometimes.