Possibly the most fascinating city I've ever explored. Whilst the assault of neon awaiting you provides the cliched welcome and everything you expect from this city, explore deeper you discover complex and diverse the districts that throw up many surprises.
Welcome to some of the most photographed NEON epicentres of Tokyo.
Shinjuku City - endless boulevards of coloured calling cards
Shibuya Crossing - the worlds busiest pedestrian crossing, where 7 roads all intersect, all lights turn red simultaneously and then a swarm of up to 3,000 people all cross in any direction, all the same time. Having sat on the 7th Floor in a coffee shop watching these armies of ants cross at lunch time, I returned at night to play with the light trails.
Chiyoda City at Dusk
After exploring the tech gaming district of Tokyo, home to the headquarters of Sega, and packed with multi-story gaming centres, I had 15 minutes downtime sheltering from the rain on a set of steps.
I was quickly compelled to capture this moment of street life. The unique perspective of each commuter's umbrella backlit by the neon signs and their undaunted expressions as they made their way home in an orderly fashion.
This part of Tokyo was missing that urgency and rush that gives it's name to the hour and is witnessed in so many other cities around the world.
The Obsession with Gaming
Making my way to RYŌGOKU STATION, I headed to the Sumo Museum, where displays of the sport are held, allowing me to get close to the dohyo (ring), watching the professionals put on a demonstration of their strength and agility. Uncanny visitors were able to pit themselves against one of the wrestlers for a friendly showdown. Many of the Sumo stables open their doors, and allow visitors to watch their wrestlers in training, I didn't realise it's necessary to book ahead.
The Art of Ramen.
The steam from bone broth creates an aura in this open kitchen, where I watched the intensity on the face of the chap preparing my meal. The passion with which each portion was prepared and served, despite the monotony of a one dish restaurant. Customers sit at the counter watching the theatre unfold. Taking chef's table to a whole new level. Raising the bar for fast food.
Salary Men
Chou City was home to the world renowned Tsukiji Nippon Fish Port Market,
which has now sadly closed it doors
which has now sadly closed it doors
Japanese Knife Sharpening
Shinobazuno Pond and the Chidorigafuchi Boat Parking
Fivefold Pagoda of Kan’ei-ji Temple
Views of the Statue of Liberty from the Hilton Tokyo Odaiba
Catch the Bullet Train with me to Hakone to see views of Mount Fuji and find out what it's like to stay in a traditional Japanese Ryokan. Click here...