Zōkyō

The photos from the previous post, “Under the Bridge” were taken from the Tokyo Water bus, Himiko that, designed by renowned Japanese cartoonists Leiji Matsumoto, on occasion, doubles as Jicoo, the floating bar/club. We got our electro-groove on, post Yokota, to the pulsating beats of our dear friend and Tokyo resident, DJ MALO. We passed under Rainbow bridge several times criss-crossing across Tokyo Bay. I can not think of a more Modern Tokyo thing to do.

Himiko’s cockpit.

Himiko, named after Queen Himiko, is a completely unique water bus with its futuristic teardrop design, streamline-shaped body, and 3D windows. During the daytime, the ship runs through old Edo and modern Tokyo while enjoying 360-degree panoramic view. Definitely recommend taking a cruise on her down the Sumida…Good fun.

(Top Photo taken by Ballet Lausanne)

Our Fearless Leader, the Catfish himself…

Yachin has been keeping me good and toasted for the last 5 years here in Tokyo at his little haunt in Shimokita, Namazu, the finest little “kakurega” (hole-in-the-wall) in all the world.

Just some straight street for my buddy John…

Met Daido Moriyama san at Place M again. It was at the opening of his show titled “Northern” and had been previously shown at Rat Hole a few months back. The reason he showed it again was because he just released a new book of the same name. This year is the 30th anniversary of his trip first photo adventure to Hokkaido. The images were stunning to say the least. The prints themselves were of top caliber as they always are.

I had a chance to have a nice discussion with him this time, asking him about a few of the images in particular. It was a real treat to hear a couple of stories behind the images. I also asked him what film and developer he uses; Kodak Tri-X in D76, and whether he still soups and prints his own stuff, to which he said “mochiron” (of course), with the exception of the very large stuff, which he sends to a printer.

All in all a very nice time. To somewhat of a surprise, Masato Seto, Moriyama’s ‘protoge’ and Place M’s owner asked me to please have a show there, which I would love to do, had I a sponsor to help with the costs. If you have any suggestions, don’t hesitate to offer them.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls, Children of all ages…

Come one, Come all…

Behold the latest unseen fandangled enigmatic discoveries of the known universe, all under one tent. Bewildering oddities to seize your imaginations and mysteries of wonderment to steal your hearts. It truly must be seen to be believed.

Do not be fooled by the artistry of this creation. No doubt there was a unhinged passion in the uncovering of these peculiar phenomenons, yet their marvel is unto themselves, never to be seen until now, before your very eyes!

It is with great honor to WELCOME YOU TO THE BERZIRCUS!!!