Photographs from a small group of islands
After more than ten years in Tokyo, and even though coming across one really isn’t that uncommon, the sight of a kimono is still something quite special: a window to another world perhaps, or at least a glimpse into one that has long since gone.
Kimono and ocarina combinations on the other hand are considerably less common.
The surprising sight and sound of which was not only pleasing for those passing by.
But also the immaculately clothed player herself.
The Japanese summertime custom of uchimizu — or the more wordy English version of splashing water over the pavement to cool the area down — is an especially pleasing looking practice; one that is somehow quite soothing as well as sensible.
And this year, due to a summer that can’t seem to settle down, it’s a sight that could still be common come the end of September.
Or early October even.
It’s impossible to even guess how many games of shogi these two pensioners must have played over the years, or indeed what their running tally of results is, but what does seem definite is that on a sunny afternoon, there really can’t be many other places where they’d rather be relaxing.
The famous Koenji Awa Odori festival is, bar the customary drinking and eating, about three things: dancing, dancing and, erm, dancing. However, the only trouble is, with well over a million visitors over the space of two evenings, seeing said dancing is often easier said than done. And taking photos of it is even trickier. Especially so if too much time is spent dabbling in the aforementioned drinking and eating.
So, whilst I did manage to bag at least a few shots of the main attraction, covering the young.
Not so young.
And the two of them in tandem.
Most of my captures were of those providing the accompaniment.
Which included all kinds of instruments.
And again, all kinds of ages.
But one thing is for sure: trying to get pictures with so many people there was tiring, but obviously nowhere near as tiring as actually taking part.
In a land where kawaii is unquestionably king, it sort of makes sense that normally bland roadside barriers should be given that all important cute conversion.
And, as a bit of a bonus, the inclusion of a cheeky little wink for added chirpiness.
Street style.
