Akasaka is part of the old "Yoshiwara" or red light district of the former Edo capital city. It used to be the place where the rich went to do almost anything they wanted in pursuit of pleasure. Much has changed. badly damaged during the bombing of WWII, almost all of the old buildings are gone and much of what remains of interest are actually reconstructions of the originals. It is, however, one of the main tourist attractions in Tokyo and a thoroughly good way to spend a day with a camera. Avoid as much as possible the main temple and cruise the back streets with interesting bars and restaurants and many things to catch the eye of a photographer - but go in good weather…..
The main temple is very famous and as you can see - it is very crowded. It must be a nightmare on New Years Eve. Photo taken on a Sigma DP2 Merrill.
Almost the same photo taken using a Mamiya 645 medium format camera and Fuji Astia Positive film.
The 5 meter high lantern on the main gate is a great attraction. Photo taken on a Sigma DP2 Merrill.
Almost the same photo taken with a Mamiya 645 medium format camera and Fuji Astia Positive film.
Where you get your fortune - pick the numbered drawer. Photo on Sigma DP2 Merrill.
The market sells all kinds of stuff. Including lovely fabrics. Photo on Sigma DP2 Merrill.
And ceramics. Sigma DP2 Merrill.
And has some unhappy restaurants. Sigma DP2 Merrill.
I was there on Halloween. Pumpkins everywhere. Sigma DP2 Merrill.
The same photo with Mamiya 645 and Fuji Astia
A traditional coin-operated ramen shop. DP2 Merrill.
A great old bike. Mamiya 645 medium format with Kodak Ektar 100 film
A wedding couple get drawn around the streets in a Rickshaw. Mamiya 645 and Fuji Astia film.
Bicycle parking with the uniformed attendant - Mamiya 645 and Fuji Astia