Photographs from a small group of islands
When out and about in their work gear, office staff and the like are lucky in that they can simply blend in, allowing them to go for a few post-work beers or do a bit of shopping without garnering even a second glance.
Wrestlers, on the other hand, really don’t have it so easy. Like the poor fella below for example. The hat is a lovely touch, and the backpack could well be perfect for carrying his cape, but he’s still not exactly what you’d call inconspicuous.
It’s not at all uncommon to see people publicly perfecting songs in Tokyo’s parks and open spaces, with the likes of violins, flutes and even keyboards regularly visible.
Somewhat rarer, on the other hand, is someone so dedicated to their art that they are prepared to do the same with a far from portable double bass. The sight of which was not only surprisingly, but really quite surreal.
With fashion and particularly appearance being very important in Japan, it’s perhaps not surprising that the nation’s scarecrows are similarly style conscious. So, for 2011, there are some new characters as well as clothes.
Along with a fresh coiffure.
And even a little coyness.
But, for those that crave continuity, there’s still the unequivocal evil of one of last year’s creations.
Peering out from the window of a kimono shop, this doll, made almost entirely of silk, was certainly very striking. So stunning, in fact, that the car had to be parked, and pictures taken.
Our presence, however, prompted the owner of the shop to come out, explain what it was made of, and then kindly invite us in for traditional tea and sweets. A decision that resulted in a truly fascinating hour or so, as not only did we get a rundown of the shop’s 120 year history, but we were also fortunate enough to see someone in there being fitted for a new kimono. Not to mention, of course, being surrounded by some incredibly beautiful and intricately patterned fabric.
Yet none of it, not even the wonderful hospitality, in any way made up for the doll’s sinister, even downright satanic, stare.
Seeing a cat carrying case left by the road was surprising in itself. Even more unexpected, however, was finding a phenomenally famous feline inside it.
And despite its lack of features, it somehow managed to look suitably forlorn.
Considering the cries of kawaii that greeted this unusual little convoy as it slowly moved along the street, cute may already be the general consensus.
However, what isn’t open to any debate is that these all-electric ad cars are not only compact and quiet.
But also incredibly (or should that be horribly?) colourful.
