Monday, December 22, 2008

Photographs of Ginza

Despite its world-famous status as Tokyo's most glamorous shopping district, Ginza, has a fascinating history, much of which was captured on film by early photographers. Ginza was the first part of Japan to be redeveloped along Western lines, creating brick buildings that were believed to offer better resistance to earthquakes. As it happens, the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake destroyed virtually all of them, after which it was back to the drawing board and wooden-framed housing. This fascinating exhibition captures the area's cycle of redevelopment, destruction and rebuilding.

If you would like to take photos that may one day end up in a gallery, try this digital photography guide.

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Frigo

Thanks perhaps to the now-ubiquitous Irish pub and the growing number of micro breweries in Tokyo, local beer drinkers are acquiring palates that demand more than just draught Sapporo. Frigo is the latest bar to tap into the craze for imported beer, with over 100 different bottles stacked high in the floor-to-ceiling fridge (hence the name) that occupies one entire wall of the pleasingly dark and moody premises. The emphasis is on beer from Belgium but there is also Guinness on tap and a small selection of esoteric bottled beers from England, all priced around Y1,000 per bottle (this is Tokyo, remember). Accompanying food is a little disappointing. Stick to bar snacks with your bottle of Delirium Tremens.

Tuesday, December 9, 2008