Omoide Yokocho Yakitori Lantern

Two-weekends ago I took a stroll through Omoide Yokocho (or Memory Lane) near Shinjuku Station's west exit (or Nishi-Guchi). Some may also know it as Shonben Yokocho or (Piss Alley). This narrow alley is full of small restaurants and has a unique, charming and authentic feeling. At times this crowed dirty alley makes you feel like you've left modern Shinjuku and traveled back in time. Then suddenly your snapped out of your trance by the tourists crowding out the locals in this unique time-capsule. CNN has a great post located here.

Nikon D600 with Nikon 85mm f/1.4 AI-S @ f2.8, ISO 100, 1/30 sec.

Akebono-bashi Kushiyaki Restaurant Store Front

Back in the spring walking with the family through an interesting shopping street in Akebono-bashi-dori, this yakitori (or kushiyaki) restaurant storefront caught my eye. It's not anything fancy, overtly flashy or nostalgic, just typical of what can be found in many neighborhoods throughout Tokyo and Japan. One look and you'll want to pass through the blue & white noren and sliding wooden slat doors, sit and have a drink and several sticks of grilled chicken and veggies.

Nikon D600 with Nikon 105mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor Lens f4.0, ISO 160, 1/40 sec.