The Streets of Tokyo

by Robert George, Jan 2, 2003 | Destinations: Japan / Tokyo

Japanese salarymen are expected to show devotion to the company by working long hours, often six days a week. So, a sunny lunch hour provides a welcome opportunity for a little R&R.

Image © 2002 Robert George

Buddhist monks in training walk the streets of Japan collecting alms as a means of practicing humility. Clothed in traditional robes and bowl-shaped rice straw hats to shield them from the temptations of the flesh, they provide an element of stark contrast to the materialistic world of contemporary urban life.

Amid the dazzling array of glitzy department stores in downtown Tokyo, neighborhood vendors still peddle their wares in open stalls on the sidewalks.

In a culture where conformity and group consciousness are key, many of Japan's youth strive to express their individuality. Contemporary fashion offers a creative way to show a little style and escape the confines of their school and office uniforms.

A story told with photos.

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Image © 2002 Robert George

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The Streets of Tokyo

Image © 2002 Robert George

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