The transformation of our natural surroundings, and the much-touted ephemeral beauty of the cherry blossom, are without a doubt the highlights of spring. But at the same time, it’s sometimes the simpler things that we appreciate the most.
Archives for March 2014
Tokyo bruiser?
A gentle giant, or a man not to be messed with?
Geisha in Gion
With our technology, consumerism and relentless obsession with talentless celebrities, the geisha in Kyoto arguably seem even more out of place than ever. Odd, almost ghost-like figures who effortlessly weave through the narrow, tourist-filled streets of their native Gion — their sporadic outings greeted with a mixture of giddy glee and hushed reverence. Neither of which are in any way surprising considering the geishas’ scarcity and history. Not to mention of course their incredible outfits and otherworldly appearance.
Yet for me at least it’s not their elegance or overall look that really sticks in the mind, but the surprisingly rapid clip-clop of traditional geta, plus the briefest glimpse of a painted neck, as they dash past on the way from one appointment to another.
Sexy Silent Hill nurses on the streets of Osaka
Well, sexy in a blood-soaked, weapon carrying and bandage wearing kind of way.
The beauty of an old Japanese bar
Photographs of this little bar have featured several times on Tokyo Times, both from a similar angle, and from the front. But, just like the establishment’s beer and yakitori, it never loses its rough and ready attraction.
The odd one out at a traditional Japanese wedding?
Looking at the odd one(s) out at a traditional Japanese wedding?