Over the years I’ve come to appreciate the benefit of re-visiting various streets, areas and locations. Primarily it’s because the people are always different, plus in a city that changes as fast as Tokyo, it’s not uncommon for the buildings to be completely different too.
The photos below are an example of both those elements, although somewhat unusually, the structure’s appearance gradually changes over the seasons. Also, there was the unexpected benefit of a new vantage point. A view I hoped would be worth the effort, but getting up there had always remained elusive. Until the other week that is. So here it is. The first frame in the series. An image that further emphasises how this long-term hotel for some of Tokyo’s poorest residents has been almost completely consumed by nature. Along with that shot are the other photos I’ve taken over the years — minus of course the many I’ve wanted, but have never got, on more visits than I care to recall.
Steve says
Wow that aerial view really is something! 😮
Lee says
Yeah, it is. Very glad to have finally got that one.
Charles of Nashville says
Japan is so interesting. Such amazing shots.
Lee says
Thank you very much, and yes, it certainly has its moments that’s for sure.
Rob Harris says
What an amazing photograph. Really pleased that you were finally able to get to that high vantage point.
Lee says
Thanks a lot. Did feel nice to finally get it, and for it to work as well as I’d always hoped.
Richard says
I remember this from before. The first shot, however, is new. AMAZING! I wonder what the inside of the building is like. Must be very dark!
What part of Tokyo is this in?
Lee says
Cheers. So happy to have finally got it. And yeah, inside… That would fully complete the set, but as people live there, I’m not sure that’ll ever happen.
It’s in Taito-ku. In the area that used to be Sanya.
Richard says
Aha, near Ueno Station and Asakusa. The older part of Tokyo.
Have you considered submitting these along with an article for publication? Could make for a very interesting piece! Eg, would National Geographic be interested in something about abandoned, overgrown buildings ina bustling, modern city like Tokyo?
cdilla says
So pleased you finally had an opportunity to get up those stairs. The view, and your patience, is definitely worthwhile. This new photograph definitely adds you your increasing body of work on this amazing building.
Lee says
Cheers. Felt really good to finally get it, and for it to work so well. Maybe another aerial view during winter would be good. But we shall see.