For a country renowned for its conformity, Japan throws up a wonderful array of contradictions, meaning one can never be completely sure of what’s round the next corner.
Surprises that, despite Tokyo’s many faults, make it a continually fascinating city to live in.
And it’s even better when you get to know one or two causes of said surprises — especially so when they turn out to be a person whose character is as decent as their bicycle is large.
How does he get off the bicycle? And god forbid if he loses his balance and falls off his bicycle…..I think I will lose a limb if I fall off that machine…
With great difficulty I think.
Nah, he’s obviously got used to it by now, but it still doesn’t look easy.
Is that the Tama river? It looks close to my in-laws
Here in Canada, I think only seen a penny farthing maybe ~4 times…
Yes, it’s the Tama River. The photo was taken south of Kunitachi I think.
This is the only penny farthing I’ve seen in Tokyo. Or anywhere for that matter.
He looks quite the part.
Yeah, pretty dapper isn’t he?
wondering if the landing is as elegant as the take off?
No. Not in the slightest!
I like the 2nd picture the most!! The expression of the smaller biker is amusing!!
And such a great contrast between both of them.
I cannot imagine if I am going to ride this! It’s cool, but too dangerous for my heart to take it!
I also wonder how is he going to get off the bike?
Yeah, I like the expression on the other cyclist too. Pretty much my section the first time I saw him too.
Me too. Really don’t think I’d fancy having a go. Plus getting off looked very difficult, which puts me off having a go even more…
A land of contradictions, you got that right! The moment you think you have figured Japan out, they throw a penny farthing, a punk rocker or a salaryman with a smile at you
Exactly. Anybody who thinks they have Japan figured out is merely proving they haven’t.
bizzare…
It makes for quite a sight. Great to watch people’s reactions.
Wow. I’m glad he’s wearing a helmet! That is definitely a sight to see. No matter where you are!
It certainly is. It’s the only proper one I’ve seen outside a museum. And definitely the only one I’ve seen being used.