From Shibuya crossing, we got back on the train to Shinjuku.

I saw a photo on Pinterest of a very narrow street in Tokyo. It’s how so many of my travel excursions happen: I see a fantastic photo on Pinterest, or a Facebook post. I research how far it is, and then make a plan to go there.

This little alley is called Omoide Yokocho Alley (or more fondly referred to as P!$$ Alley). I looked down one alley, and I can now confirm on the accuracy of this!

It was one of the best experiences of Japan (minus our Geisha encounters) There were so many visual delights I could barely contain myself. I’m sure Chrissy captured my foolish expression and I leaped about in excitement.

The street felt only slightly wider than a doorway entrance. Tiny little eateries: pork belly on a stick cooking over some coals. Oysters and beer. Noodles and tempura. Tofu, pickles and more beer. I had no reservations taking photos of everything, and everyone!

People laughing, eating, drinking. The cooks preparing food, waiting on customers, wiping the sweat away from their brow. A mother feeding noodles to her child with chopsticks. A guy slurping down oysters.

It wasn’t until we were on the train and I was looking through my photos that I saw one with a ‘No Photography’ sign in it. Oops. Inconsiderate tourist strikes again. I was so focused on the kettle, food, and kitchen, that I didn’t see the sign.

Several people eating gave us a peace sign and smiled for their photo being take. I think it was more tongue in cheek and polite sarcasm / passive aggressiveness than genuine ‘let’s smile for the camera’ I blushed, smiled and bowed, but I doubt they noticed. And then I carried on taking photos.

I love the steam creating such atmosphere and depth to the scene. The lighting was fantastic. The blackened wood on the buildings. The masses of tangled, low hanging electrical wires above. The neon lights. It was all such a visual feast. That night, I went to bed full.

After walking up and down Omoide Alley, we settled on one little place for some gyoza and pork belly on a stick. A small, tasty snack before heading back home on the train.

Until next time,

Many blessings

Evelyn

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