There’s no shortage of dilapidated old buildings in Japan, but turning the corner and seeing the tumbledown state of Paradise Street was really quite surprising. A little enclave of the past that is rapidly disintegrating, as well as increasingly strewn with rubbish.
Speaking to a few locals, it turns out the area was once a thriving red light district, with the nearby port an added bonus when it came to patrons. The buildings were also rumoured to house a secret floor for avoiding detection due to the nature of what went on there, but without being able to gain access, there was no way of verifying that. Either way though, those days are long gone, with gradual demolition now being added to the decay.
It does, however, remain a fascinating spot. The signboards in particular give it real appeal, and the increasing encroachment of modern apartment blocks provide a stark contrast. The latter, along with the street’s declining state, mean it’s hard to imagine the area lasting that much longer, but the unexpected presence of one last tenant and his many cats could well be what’s keeping the wrecking ball at bay, so for now at least, Paradise Street persists.
YesterdaysHero says
This is very interesting, Lee. I’m amazed it remains standing.
cdilla says
You have captured this street at what seems to be the perfect point of decrepitation, before it collapses or is demolished and when there is one last tennent to tell the story. Thank you as ever for sharing another echo of the past.