Shinjuku Golden Gai (新宿ゴールデン街) in Tokyo, Japan is composed of a network of six narrow alleys, connected by narrow passageways which are just about wide enough for a single person to pass through. Over 200 tiny shanty-style bars, clubs and eateries are squeezed into this area and most of the bars can only fit up to 5 people. Took this during the day when the scene here is more serene. (at Golden Gai)
Tokyo - Piss Alley (AKA Yakitori Alley) - Shinjuku
The name Piss Alley is a reference to a time in its history when it (allegedly) was a popular spot for the shadier element to drink quite a bit. The urban legend (one of many) is that because it was such a popular drinking spot, people would relieve themselves in the alley itself. And so it was coined Piss Alley.
In truth, you are not likely to find people relieving themselves in the alley in its present incarnation.
But names seem to stick - especially names that conjure up colorful narratives.
Tokyo - Cherry Blossoms + Plum Blossoms + Skyline Views in a VIDEO!
My second travel vlog from Tokyo is now up for your viewing pleasure :)
In there is footage of the beautiful Hama-rikyu Gardens (浜離宮恩賜庭園, Hama-rikyū Onshi Teien) on a rainy spring day. I was lucky enough to catch the very first plum blossoms and cherry blossoms of the year.
There is also footage taken while riding a boat that goes along Tokyo’s Sumida River. The Sumida river is a great vantage point to view part of Tokyo’s skyline.
(The odd shape on the building is supposed to be beer foam - the building is the Asahi Beer Hall and it is designed by Philippe Starck)
This will be a series. Next in the series: Ginza and possibly Tokyo’s Memory Lane (big thanks to Sony for having me as a guest for this adventure!!) …
I am traveling to Paris in a few days so the next Tokyo video won’t be until I get back. Also, I will be filming in Paris too :).
Because I have the attention span of a gnat and thus know the struggle is real, I will link to the video again (even though it’s above). Here you go:
Hope you enjoy!
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P.S. - Are any of you on ? It’s a live-streaming app. I have been spontaneously taking people around NYC with me every day. I am Vivienne Gucwa on there (or search for travelinglens). Fun, fun!
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My best-selling released in stores/online worldwide recently. Info about the book (including many photos, sample pages, and info about my history and style of photography):
