Due to it boasting expensive brands and flagship stores, Ginza is obviously a popular destination for shoppers. But at the weekend, with its wide, pedestrianised main street, it’s also a place where many people simply go to be seen. A chance to get dressed up, turn on the style and hopefully attract a little attention. And when it comes to the latter, some people are clearly more accustomed to it than others.
An abandoned old Pontiac in rural Tokyo
Tokyo’s far west is very different from the capital’s more central regions. It’s green, for starters. Plus comparatively at least, it really is quite sparsely populated. An area where it’s possible to meet bar owners in their 90s, enjoy genuinely striking views, and occasionally even spot the odd monkey.
A battered old Porsche, on the other hand, wouldn’t necessarily be on the list of expected sightings. There again, it wasn’t exactly a huge surprise to see one either. But a slowly rotting Pontiac parked next to it most certainly was.
Now wonderfully out of place and time, it’s probably the last place those who produced it all those years ago expected it to end its days. But sadly ending its days there does seem to be its destiny.
Tokyo looks and stares
Delivery by bicycle, urban Tokyo style
Stormy weather over Tokyo’s western mountains
The far west of Tokyo is far different from many images of the capital. There’s no neon. No immense swathes of concrete either. Not even many people. Instead, there are trees, mountains and also an abandoned train line. All of which make for an incredibly refreshing contrast. And on a day when a storm is fast approaching, those differences are made all the more striking.
A lovely old Tokyo bar owner
Old Tokyo bars are fascinating little places, with layers of grime and lines on their owners faces hinting at the history played out in them. Key elements that were thankfully in evidence at the eatery below.
In business for 68 years, the current Mama-san has been in charge for a mere 13 years. Her mother, who originally hailed from Hokkaido, opened it and was the proprietor for the other 55. A period that has seen an absolutely staggering amount of change, but inside the bar, time has pretty much stood still. And all being well, it will continue that way for countless more years to come.