David Hilgier Photographs

These five station attendants visually represent the attention to detail and service we found while exploring the city. Like guards of a palace, one performs an essential task while the remainder of the group stands in wait ready to spring into action at a moments notice.

Beneath the rail lines of central Tokyo, a small bar/restaurant utilizes the entirety of their facade to advertise their daily offerings and specials.

Moving on from the Kanda Station we follow the streets and walkways lined with shops and restaurants that trace the tracks utilized by the JR Group lines that connect people to various parts of the Tokyo and beyond.

Family Mart, Lawson, or 7-Eleven? Not sure I could pick a favorite from our time in Japan. I can’t remember the last time I was in a 7-Eleven here at home, regardless, these convenience stores in Japan are a noticeable step above their American counterparts. Perfect for a quick snack while wandering the city.

After a morning at the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum, we rambled our way back to Chiyoda for a late lunch at one of the ramen spots pinpointed on our map. The streets, and lunch restaurant, noticeably less busy during this moment in-between rush hours.

On our way home for the evening, once again we witnessed the unabated job rituals of those operating the metros, trains, and shinkansen in Japan. In almost robotic fashion these individuals consistently follow a script of checks, confirmations, and tasks as they move towards their destinations on a strict schedule. A noticeable professionalism we’ve not witnessed in any other public transit system we’ve traveled on.

Radiating from the famous Shibuya Crossing are numerous lively streets, alleys, and pathways. Many of these contain an aesthetic quintessential to Tokyo where no space is left untouched by signage and advertising.

In one direction flows a steady stream of pedestrians. Perpendicular to it moves vehicular traffic primarily consisting of taxis heading to and from Tokyo Station.

The workday draws to a close and the setting sun peeks through the narrow openings between high rises in this district of Chiyoda. After a day of exploring Tokyo, I linger at this crosswalk nearby our hotel observing the sun cast highlights on the subjects that pass through the sliver of light reaching the intersection.

A moment of pause somewhere beneath the streets of Tokyo. Her outfit reminded me of a fairy tale character. Her shoes speak to her cosmopolitan roots. Fashionable, but most importantly, comfortable and functional.