The cleanliness of Tokyo is often — not to mention quite rightly — commended, but certain parts of the city are gloriously grubby, and perhaps none more than Shinjuku. A place where big name brands have a fair few stores, but down the many side streets it’s generally a very different story indeed.
The city’s red light district in particular has a distinctly gritty vibe.
And the wonderfully ramshackle and rather claustrophobic Memory Lane — or Piss Alley as it’s sometimes referred to — manages to pretty much encapsulate everything that’s good about the area in one small passageway, namely all of the above plus an atmosphere that’s very much its own.
Great to see some shots of these areas. They are so interesting to peer down. I’m always surprised how you don’t have to venture too far to find streets like this around Shinkuku.
Yeah, pretty much venture off the main street and there are all manner of sights on display. And it seems that no matter what time of day you go, there’s always something, or invariably someone, of interest to see.
Is nice! Lee, are you moving entirely to B&W photography
Noticed your last few posts.
Nah, not entirely Ed (despite the last lot of shots), but I do find myself increasingly drawn to B&W.
These are excellent subjects for B&W; BTW, I always wondered what Piss Alley looked like.
Thanks. Colour just didn’t seem appropriate at all. It’s a great place to take a few photos, or simply walk down. Whenever I’m even remotely near it, I always make a detour, so as I can walk through.
Is Zen still there? Great place for a drink.
I don’t know Zen, Chris. Where abouts in Shinjuku?
Right on that piss alley. If you come from the pedestrian tunnel under the tracks, it should be more than half way down on the right. Tiny place with hardly any room to enter, but slightly more spacious on the 2nd floor and rooftop patio. I think it’s the only rooftop patio in that area.
Ah, ok. Cheers. Next time I’m there I’ll have a look. Maybe even pop in for a beer or two.