"Kaisoku Chuo Line Arriving at Mitaka" (100313-2038)

Standing on the platform as an outbound Chuo Line kaisoku (rapid) arrives - overtaking a regular Chuo Line train stopped on the other side of the platform (waiting for the kaisoku to pass). Visually not particularly exciting, but the announcements might be sort of interesting.

三鷹駅で中央線の快速が到着 東京 (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 8:38 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Chuo Line Leaving Kichijoji - Inside View" (100313-2034)

Leaving Kichijoji Station via the Chuo Line - walking through part of the carriage and then looking out the window at a combination of a direct outside view and a reflected inside view.  This is a large part of life in Tokyo!

Thinking back to my car culture days, I can easily recall the view from the drivers seat of my 1971 Datsun 510 (which I drove seven days a week for about four years).  One of the train culture versions of that, is watching inside/outside views at night while looking out the window at an angle.

Hmm... speaking of memories from the driver's seat - for some reason the first thing that comes to mind are memories of sitting there on rainy days - maybe because the senses were more alert on such days?

中央線で吉祥寺駅から出発  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 8:34 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Walking Through Inokashira Line Train" (100313-2031)

Being able to walk through a train in Tokyo is not something to take from granted. I was in a hurry to change trains at Kichijoji (where the ticket gates are at the extreme front end of the platform), so I dropped in behind someone else walking up the train - "I'll let him clear a path..." thought I.

井の頭線の中に歩く 東京 (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 8:31 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Boarding Inokashira Line at Shibuya Station" (100313-2007)

Walking up the platform through people just arriving in Shibuya on a Saturday night - going the other way myself, heading towards Kichijoji (the other end of the Inokashira Line).  Notice that there are not that many people getting on (by Tokyo standards anyway), since it was only just after 8:00 p.m.

土曜日 - 渋谷駅の井の頭線を乗る  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 8:07 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Heading Towards Inokashira Line in Shibuya" (100313-2005)

Crossing the "scramble" crosswalk in Shibuya and heading towards the Inokashira Line, which is off to the side of Shibuya Station.

土曜日の渋谷、井の頭線に向かう 東京 (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 8:05 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"View of Wakamono-gai in Shibuya" (100313-1953)

Looking down on Wakamono-gai, the street that runs diagonally from Shibuya Station and is (sort of) the center of the youth culture in Shibuya.

渋谷若者街の土曜日夜の風景  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 7:53 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Shibuya Jungle Walk - March 2010" (100313-1943)

Saturday is probably the busiest night for this street.  Not sure what to refer to this street as (Wakamono-gai?) - but it's sort of the center of Shibuya's youth culture.  It was created a about four decades ago by putting a small river underground and making its former path a street - the street in this video.

There's a lot to see in this video if you watch it closely.  The people and scenes are pretty much what it's like to walk down that street.

渋谷若者街の土曜日夜の散歩  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 7:39 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Hachiko Square One Saturday in March" (100313-1939)

Walking around in Hachiko Square on a Saturday evening in March.  As people meet up with friends, a political van with a man on top with a microphone goes on about something.  People usually just ignore these types of political (very large) soapboxes, but sometimes they are so over-amplified that they are actually physically painful to hear if you're anywhere near them (not the case on this particular day).

After walking around in the waiting area in front of the Hachiko dog statue, I head over towards the "scramble" crosswalk and wait for the next walk-everywhere green lights....

渋谷駅前のハチ公広場の土曜日の夕方の様子  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 7:39 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Day Before 'White Day' in Shibuya" (100313-1936)

Another section of Shibuya Station selling chocolate the day before "White Day".  The basic idea in Japan being that women buy chocolate for men on Valentine's Day and men buy chocolate for woman on "White Day" one month later on March 14th.  So I was a little surprised to see some women buying chocolate the day before "White Day", but it probably doesn't have anything to do with "White Day"?  Who knows... since it's just a commercial thing (not cultural or religious), anything goes!

渋谷駅のホワイトデー（14日）の前日の買い物  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 7:36 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Shibuya Station Department Store 'White Day" Sales" (100313-1933)

The day before "White Day" (the March version of Valentine's Day, held on March 14th), in a section of Tokyu Department Store within/under Shibuya Station.

After coming down the stairs (or escalator) from the Toyoko Line, turn left, and then left again to double back into this food section of (one of) the Tokyu Department Store(s).

(Going straight into the department store on a level with the 2nd floor ticket gates of the Toyoko Line, you would find yourself in the cosmetics section of the store.)

渋谷駅の下で、デパートのホワイトデー（14日）前日の買い物  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 7:33 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Exiting the Toyoko Line in Shibuya" (100313-1932)

Walking through the ticket gates as I leave the Toyoko Line and enter the main part of Shibuya Station - going down the escalator that lands by the Tokyu Department Store (as do all exits from the Toyoko Line - come to think of it - Shibuya is "Tokyu Town").

渋谷駅で、東横線の改札口を通して渋谷駅の中の散歩 東京 (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 7:32 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Exiting Toyoko Line in Shibuya" (100313-1930)

Exactly 30 minutes after boarding a special express in Yokohama, I walk up the platform in Shibuya towards the exit just after having gotten off the train there.  While walking up the platform, an outbound train departs.

渋谷駅で、東横線を降りて改札口に向かう  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 7:31 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Arrival of Toyoko Line Special Express" (100313-1901)

After letting a regular express and a local train go by, I got on the special express train when it arrived at Yokohama Station.

横浜駅で、東横線の特急電車の到着 東京 (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 7:01 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Local Toyoko Line Train Departs Yokohama Station" (100313-1858)

Watching a local Toyoko Line train depart Yokohama Station while waiting for an express.  Since the line is seamlessly split (at Yokohama Station) between the Toyoko Line and the Minato-Mirai Line, some of the trains are Toyoko Line (surface) trains and some are subway trains.

The only disadvantage to there being two lines instead of one is the cost.  You always pay more when going from one line to another than if the entire line was run by one company.  On the other hand, when two lines run in parallel, then you tend to get faster and cheaper service, as the lines compete with each other.  So different lines in series means you pay more, and different lines in parallel means you pay less.

横浜駅で、東横線の各駅電車の出発  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 6:58 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Local Toyoko Line Train Arrives at Yokohama Station" (100313-1856)

Watching a local Toyoko Line train arrive in Yokohama while waiting for an express.

横浜駅で、東横線の各駅電車の到着 東京 (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 6:56 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Yokohama Toyoko Line Ticket Gates to Platform" (100313-1853)

Walking from the ticket barrier for the Toyoko and Minato-Mirai Lines (with the Toyoko LIne strangely labeled "Tokyu L.").

It hasn't been many years since the Toyoko Line was put underground at Yokohama Station, so everything is still pretty squeaky clean.

When I reach the platform, there is an express train there, but the many people waiting in line are waiting for a different type of train to arrive.  (After this, a local came, and then a special express train (which is what I wanted to take.)

横浜駅の改札口から東急東横線のホームまでの散歩  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 6:53 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Toyoko Line Bound in Yokohama Station" (100313-1851)

Heading through the pedestrian tunnels in Yokohama Station, transferring from the Yokohama Blue Line to the Tokyu Toyoko Line.

横浜駅で、東横線に向かう  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 6:51 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Yokohama Underground Station Walk" (100313-1849)

Walking through an underground section of Yokohama Station.  When I went to Yokohama on a regular basis many years ago, I remember it being under construction - now that the construction is done, it seems quite clean and modern (which it is...).

横浜駅の地面の下の新しいところ  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 6:49 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Riding Yokohama Blue Line Towards Yokohama (Inside View)" (100313-1847)

An inside look at a ride on the Yokohama Blue Line subway - zinging through the tunnel for awhile before it pulls into Yokohama Station.  The particular train I took not only had interesting pictures on the outside of the train, but also on the seats!  It seemed cleaner than the usual already clean Tokyo subways... due to newness I presume.

横浜ブルーラインの内部  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 6:47 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Yokohama Blue Line Subway Train Arrives at Sakuragicho Station" (100313-1843)

Waiting for, and then watching as the Yokohama Blue Line subway comes into Sakuragicho Station.  After it pulls in, I climb aboard for the ride to Yokohama Station.

横浜ブルーライン  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 6:43 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Minato-Mirai Twilight View - Lights and Water" (100313-1814)

Looking first back towards the ocean side of Yokohama's Minato-Mirai area, and then looking 180-degrees inland at the old sailing ship moored there, and then up at 70-story tall Landmark Tower.

夕方の横浜のみなとみらいの風景  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 6:14 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"'Galaxy' Ride in Minato-Mirai Area" (100313-1803)

Watching (from right beside it) the Galaxy ride at Yokohama's amusement park CosmoWorld in the twilight of a Saturday evening.

夕方の横浜コスモワールド遊園地のギャラクシー乗り物の風景（隣の様子）  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 6:03 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Yokohama Water Slide 'Cliff Drop' Ride" (100313-1727)

Nearly the full log water slide "Cliff Drop" ride at Yokohama's amusement park CosmoWorld.  (To prevent the camera from getting wet, I put it behind my coat at the splash point at the bottom of the two hills.)  This particular ride was pretty decent - long enough to take in the nice views of Yokohama Minato-Mirai and also fun with the two slides.  (I would advise staying away from the too-short and too-boring roller coaster, but this ride is pretty decent.)

横浜コスモワールド遊園地のクリフ・ドロップを乗りました - その風景  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 5:27 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Ricoh Booth at CP Plus Camera Show" (100313-1522)

Having a look at the Ricoh booth at the CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show at Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center.

パシフィコ横浜のシーピープラス・カメラと写真映像のイベントショーのリコーのところ 東京 (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 3:22 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Fuji-Film Booth at CP Plus Camera Show" (100313-1519)

Having a look at the Fuji-Film booth at the CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show at Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center.

パシフィコ横浜のシーピープラス・カメラと写真映像のイベントショーの富士フィルムのところ  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 3:19 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Olympus and Canon Booths at CP Plus Camera Show" (100313-1514)

Walking by and through the Olympus and Canon display areas at the CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show at Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center.

パシフィコ横浜のシーピープラス・カメラと写真映像のイベントショーのオリンパスとカノンのところ  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 3:14 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Two Models in White, 50 Photographers" (100313-1512)

Two women standing in front of a backdrop (with the name of the company they are working for) pose for a large number of photographers. The photographers get a chance to practice taking pictures of live models, and the company gets its logo recorded in the background.

二人のモデルさんと、五十人のカメラマン パシフィコ横浜のシーピープラス・カメラと写真映像のイベントショー 東京 (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 3:12 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Nikon and Olympus Booths at CP Plus Camera Show" (100313-1509)

Walking by and/or through the Nikon and Olympus display areas at the CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show at Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center.

パシフィコ横浜のシーピープラス・カメラと写真映像のイベントショーのニコンとオリンパスのところ  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 3:09 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Photo Exhibit at CP Plus Camera Show" (100313-1506)

A look at the photo exhibit area of the CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show at Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center. I was intrigued somewhat by the women who was intently photographing someone's photographs... I guess she really liked them.

パシフィコ横浜のシーピープラス・カメラと写真映像のイベントショー 写真ディスプレイのところ 東京 (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 3:06 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"CP+ Camera Show Women by Entrance" (100313-1457)

Entering the CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show at Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center - walking past the show women posing for photographers by the entrance.  These were general models for the show - each of the manufacturers had their own models in each company's own uniforms - most also posing for photographer's pictures.

パシフィコ横浜の入り口の様子  カメラマンたちがショーガールをパチパチ写真を撮る  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 2:57 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Upper Entrance to Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center" (100313-1448)

After walking in the upper entranceway to the Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center (where the restaurants are) and giving the area a quick 360-degree look, I take the escalator down to the registration and entrance area of the show itself.

パシフィコ横浜の中の様子  上の入り口から、エスカレータを乗って、下のショーの入り口まで  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 2:48 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Afternoon Entrance to Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center" (100313-1447)

Looking at the people walking about in the March afternoon light on the external walkway in front of the Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center, just before entering to see the CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show.

パシフィコ横浜  外側の様子、中に入る前  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 2:47 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Exterior of Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center" (100313-1444)

Looking at reflections in the mirrored glass of the exterior of the Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center, before going inside for the CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show.

パシフィコ横浜  外側の鏡グラス  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 2:44 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Walk Through the 'Game Center' Building at CosmoWorld" (100313-1426)

Still wasting time at the mini-amusement park CosmoWorld on my way to the camera show at nearby Pacifico Convention Center.

コスモワールドの暴風の中の様子  空っぽゲームセンター  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 2:26 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Nearly Empty CosmoWorld in Strong Winds" (100313-1423)

A look around from the upper level at the mini-amusement park CosmoWorld, including of the tracks (painted pink) of the overpriced, boring 'Diving Coaster - Vanish' roller coaster, whose sole redeeming quality is that it dives down through a hole in a pond.  But even that is boring from the ride itself, so it's more interesting (and you don't have to waste Y700) to watch it do so from the side, where it actually looks (a little bit) like it's going into the pond.  If you *do* decide to ride this mini-roller coaster, be sure to hide your camera until the thing is about to start down the first hill, as otherwise they actually shut the thing down as it's beginning to climb the hill, and send out rude people to steal the riders' cameras!  I had this happen to me and it was quite an unpleasant experience (people go to an amusement park to have fun, not to be treated badly).  I tried giving the very rude man just the battery, but he insisted on stealing the camera.  I did get it back after the ride - with a big greasy fingerprint in the middle of the monitor screen.  If they're going to insult people and steal their personal property, they could at least be more careful with it....

Interestingly, the "Cliff-Drop" water log ride is actually pretty good - and vastly better than the ripoff that the mini-roller coaster is.  The log ride has good views, and two hills that you get to slide down.

コスモワールドの暴風の中の様子  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 2:23 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Stopped 'Cosmo-Clock' Ferris Wheel at CosmoWorld" (100313-1411)

Sitting at an empty table (they were all empty except for one other person), I contemplated the large ferris wheel overhead - stopped due to strong winds, which were making fairly dramatic noises blowing through the large ferris wheel structure.  This amusement park as a whole is tiny, but its ferris wheel is huge!

コスモワールドの暴風で止まっている「コスモクロック」  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 2:11 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Passing Through CosmoWorld on way to Pacifico Convention Center" (100313-1402)

A look at a mostly empty CosmoWorld mini-amusement park while on my way to the Pacifico Convention Center. The large ferris wheel with its colored lights makes the area more picturesque at night, with the light reflecting off the water.

パシフィコ横浜に行く行く途中のコスモワールド 東京 (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 2:02 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Yokohama Minato-Mirai Mall (External View)" (100313-1354)

Looking around near a mall at Minato-Mirai in Yokohama.

横浜みなとみらいモール  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 1:54 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Old Steel Bridge in Minato-Mirai - Kids in Rowboat" (100313-1345)

Walking across an old steel bridge (formerly used for a freight rail line) as a strong wind blows and a large rowboat full of kids goes under the bridge.

横浜みなとみらいで、元貨物線の鉄道橋  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 1:45 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Minato-Mirai Area - Walking Along Former Railway Tracks" (100313-1343)

Walking along former freight train rails on the way to a shopping mall and amusement park.

横浜みなとみらいで、元貨物線の鉄道の道に歩く 東京 (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 1:43 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Solitary Moment Before Joining Saturday Crowds" (100313-1339)

Finding myself alone down by the river, I took in the solitude for a moment before joining the Saturday crowds in Yokohama's Minato-Mirai area.

横浜で、人込みに入る前に一人の瞬間  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 1:39 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Yokohama Seagulls Waiting for Strong Winds to Subside Near Landmark Tower" (100313-1333)

On my way to the camera show at Pacifico Yokohama, I noticed a fairly large number of seagulls bobbing about in the river - seemingly waiting for the strong winds of the day to slow down for safer flying.

横浜ランドマークタワーの近くに、かもめが暴風を終わるまで待つ  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 1:33 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Leaving Minato-Mirai Station (Rear Cab and Train Interior Views)" (100313-1254)

Watching the conductor close the train doors and check the platform of Minato-Mirai Station as the train leaves. Also a quick look at the interior of the train.

みなとみらい駅から出発（車内） 東京 (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 12:54 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Brief Stop at Minato-Mirai Station" (100313-1253)

Watching the conductor and the scene on the platform at Minato-Mirai Station as the train pulls into the station, the train on the opposite side pulls out, the platform announcements are made, and the train is about to get under way.  Being at the very back of the train, the overhead set of platform monitors can be seen as well.

みなとみらい駅に到着とホームアナウンス、出発の準備  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 12:53 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Arrival and Departure of MinatoMirai Line at Yokohama Station" (100313-1250)

Watching a Minato-Mirai subway train arrive at Yokohama Station, followed by boarding the train, station platform announcements, and then a view of rolling past the entire length of the platform, followed by a short look at the interior of the train.

横浜駅の地下鉄みなとみらい線の電車が到着と出発  電車の中の様子  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 12:50 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Yokohama Minato-Mirai Line Platform Walk" (100313-1247)

Walking down the escalator to the Minato-Mirai Line platform, and then walking up the platform as a train arrives and departs on the opposite platform, and then (at the end of the platform) the video ends just as my train can be heard approaching.  This is a fairly new station and it shows in how squeaky-clean it looks.

横浜駅で、エスカレータを下りて、地下鉄みなとみらい線のホームに到着とホームの散歩  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 12:47 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Video Clips of HUST Exhibition in Yokohama (2010/3/18-22)"

I went to the HUST (Hideyuki Usuki & Shingo Toyama / 臼木英之 & 遠山伸吾) exhibition in Yokohama not knowing what to expect, so when I walked into the high-ceilinged space and saw all the objects floating around - it was... I think "fun" is the best descriptive term I can come up with - visually fun.  Taking a seat in one of the strategically placed chairs, it was fun to look up and watch the objects drifting about.  And then walking around among the objects in the space was also fun.  The ambient music was also fitting for the experience.  Photos and video clips don't do it justice - this is definitely an exhibit you need to experience to fully appreciate!

Following are links to five video clips I took while there:

"HUST Yokohama Exhibition: 'In Vitro' - Walking Around (1/5)" (100319-1635) 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJfEbPVHTZQ

HUST(臼木英之 & 遠山伸吾)の横浜展示会 - ヨコハマ・クリエイティブシティ・センターで、2010年3月18-22日 (1/5)

"HUST Yokohama Exhibition: 'In Vitro' - View from Far Side (2/5)" (100319-1640)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gFywz4yDU4

"HUST Yokohama Exhibition: 'In Vitro' - View from Entrance Side (3/5)" (100319-1646)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-AjgSFe3Bo

"HUST Yokohama Exhibition: 'In Vitro' - Vertical Pan (4/5)" (100319-1659)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_vfoRLWQstw

"HUST Yokohama Exhibition: 'In Vitro' - View from Stairwell (5/5)" (100319-1708)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vuZYqRR2SbA

This post from "Tokyo Art & Music" has the promotional postcard with the location information:
"Usuki Hideyuki & Toyama Shingo - HUST - in Yokohama"

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

Rude (& Boring) "Diving Coaster - 'Vanish'" at Yokohama CosmoWorld

I rode the roller coaster at CosmoWorld in Yokohama and as it got underway, I and a few other people pulled out cameras and started taking pictures.  We got to where the coaster begins to climb the hill, and it suddenly stopped.  The next thing I knew, a rude man had come alongside the coaster and started confiscating people's cameras!  I reluctantly allowed my camera to be stolen, but it completely ruined not only the ride, but any enjoyment I would have had that evening.

Not being complete and total thugs, they returned my camera at the end - complete with greasy fingerprint on the display screen.  [Note to CosmoWorld camera thief:
   1) You shouldn't physically touch the display screen in the first place, and
   2) Try washing your hands with soap dude - it's gross having personal property not only rudely stolen, but greased up with your filthy hands!]

The thing is - I don't recall any obvious signs about "No Photography!" or any clear announcements saying "No Photography!" and then they stop the ride midway and send around a rude man to steal people's cameras.  It may say something somewhere and they may have said something in the mumbled announcement before the ride, but it wasn't noticeable, and if they're going to steal people's cameras so rudely, they should make it very clear that they are fanatical about no pictures.

The ride turned out to be very boring anyway - too slow, boring, and over too quickly.  That may be why Yokohama's CosmoWorld doesn't want people taking pictures/video - as it would be apparent how very boring the ride is and how it's definitely not worth the Y700 they charge for it.

So, I would advise anyone visiting CosmoWorld in Yokohama to avoid the "Diving Coaster - 'Vanish'" ride, or - if you are determined to ride it - then keep your camera hidden until the ride is at the top of the first hill and about to begin coasting down, a point where I don't think they can just suddenly stop it and send a rude man to climb the hill to steal your camera.

Lyle

"Down, Down, Down - to the Yokohama Station Subway" (100313-1245)

Descending one flight of stairs or escalators after another in my quest for the Yokohama Station subway, which is obviously rather deep underground, then passing through the ticket barrier and towards yet another escalator.  Yokohama Station is where the Toyoko Line becomes the Minato-Mirai Line (or vice-versa, depending on which direction you're going).

Caution: The signs in English are labeled "Tokyu L." and "Minatomirai L."  The "L" here refers to "Line".  Probably the "Minatomirai" name is so long that they couldn't fit in "Line".  It's unfortunate, as "L" is not a standard abbreviation for "Line" and someone not familiar with the system might mistake that as the name of the line, as in "L-Line".  It probably would have been better (and more interesting) to have written "Line" sideways at the end, which would have look cool and not been embarrassing, the way way "L." is.

Also the Tokyu Corporation runs several train lines, so it would be more sensible to call this by its proper name "Toyoko Line".  Whoever is responsible for those signs should be ashamed of themselves.  That's just really sloppy.  Aren't they interested in quality?

横浜駅で、階段やエスカレータが次から次へ使って横浜駅の地下鉄へ行く  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 12:45 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Mirrors by an Escalator in Yokohama Station" (100313-1245)

Having visual fun with mirrors by an escalator in Yokohama Station.  (I rode these up and then down again specifically to get the full visual fun of flowing, reflected motion.)

For those who might complain that this is too short for a video - I would ask that you view this as a collection of still pictures.

横浜駅の鏡のエスカレータ  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 12:45 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Yokohama Station - Passing Through Ticket Gates" (100313-1243)

Yokohama Station - exiting via the "Central South Gate" ticket barrier.  In reviewing this, I noticed a few things I hadn't at the time - like the young girl with the roller skate/running shoes.

That's the thing about taking pictures - you end up being only half-there, and don't really get a chance to see things in detail...  until you get back home and watch them on the screen!

横浜駅の改札口  土曜日の人々、都市の人の数！  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 12:43 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Yokohama Platform Walk" (100313-1240)

Walking down the Tokaido Line platform at Yokohama Station.  As I near the stairs, you can hear recorded bird sounds.  The idea is to relax people and get them to think of a serene spot in the mountains, but that effect works in reverse as well!  When someone hears real birds in a park or in the mountains now, they are just as likely to be reminded of commuter train lines in Tokyo!

横浜駅の東海道線のホーム  スピーカから、鳥の音が出て来ます  音はきれいですが、今度山へ行きと鳥の音を聞くと、都市の画面を浮かぶ事！  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 12:40 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Tokaido & Yokosuka Lines Racing into Yokohama" (100313-1238)

A Tokaido Line (camera) train races a Yokosuka Line train into Yokohama - where I get off and begin walking down the platform in Yokohama.

東海道線と横須賀線の競争！ 横浜駅へ！  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 12:38 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Yokosuka Line Approaching Yokohama" (100313-1237)

Watching the two double-deck "Green Cars" of a Yokosuka Line train (running in parallel with the Tokaido Line train I was on) slowly pass in front of the camera.  This is the usual setup for 15-car JR trains in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, and Chiba (the Kanto Region) - with single-level train cars for the whole train other than the two first class cars ("green cars"), which are two-level designs.

横須賀線のグリーン車（東海道線からの様子）  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 12:37 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Tokaido LIne - At Speed View - Right Side" (100313-1235)

The Tokaido Line train I'm on continues speeding towards Yokohama - looking out the right side of the train - over the other rails (this is a busy stretch for passenger trains).  Getting a little away from Tokyo, the different tracks begin to split up.

東海道線 横浜に向かう  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 12:35 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Tokaido Line - Racing Towards Yokohama" (100313-1233)

Looking out the right side of a Tokaido Line train as it races towards Yokohama.  (The train it has just passed at the beginning of the clip is a Keihin-Tohoku LIne train.)  This section of rails with several lines running side by side is a good one for looking out the window and watching the different trains go by on neighboring rails.  (The red, black, & white train is one of the Narita Express trains that runs from the International airport in Chiba to different places in Yokohama and Tokyo.)

When I lived in Chigasaki, I often used the Tokaido Line (although I used the Odakyu Line more), so I always feel a bit nostalgic about it when using it now.

東海道線 横浜に向かう  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 12:33 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Tokaido LIne Green Cars (Upper & Lower Levels)" (100313-1206)

At Tokyo Station - walking into and through the two "Green Cars" (1st class), going first through the upper level (in the first car) and then through the lower level (in the second car).  I would have walked through the section between the two 1st class cars, but the door wasn't opening (either locked, or I wasn't pulling/pushing/whatever the handle correctly), so I went out to the platform to get to the next 1st class car and then out to the platform again to get to the regular section of the train.

I don't mind not having a reserved seat, but a train trip certainly is much nicer if the seat is by the window and facing forward instead of facing the centerline of the train car with two groups of people set facing each other as though both were on a stage.  That's not a complaint exactly - I realize that this seating arrangement is the most practical, given the number of people who use the trains during the peak rush hours.

東海道線のグリーン車（上を下） 東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 12:06 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Tokyo Station - Exiting Chuo LIne" (100313-1203)

Pulling into Tokyo Station on a Chuo Line train (the last stop on the line), stepping out onto the platform and then beginning the long escalator ride/walk down to the lower level concourse that passes under all of the surface line tracks.

東京駅、中央線から降りてエスカレーターで下り始める  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 12:03 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Kichijoji Night Stroll - Sun Road, Etc." (100312-1853)

Strolling along on nighttime Kichijoji's Sun Road - and then turning left onto the open road leading towards Tokyu Department Store.  Kichijoji is quite a nice area actually - convenient for shopping, and with a large park not far from the station.

吉祥寺サンロードの散歩など  東京  (Recorded on Friday, March 12th, 2010, at 6:53 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Kichijoji Bus Stop & Crosswalk" (100312-1809)

Looking around while walking towards the Yodobashi Camera in Kichijoji - at people lined up for a bus; back towards the station, and then looking forward while walking across a crosswalk.

吉祥寺バス停と横断歩道  東京  (Recorded on Friday, March 12th, 2010, at 6:09 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Exiting Chuo Line at Kichijoji" (100312-1805)

Just after stepping off of an inbound Chuo Line train - I walk down the platform and get on an escalator to go down to the ticket gates.

吉祥寺駅で中央線から降りて、エスカレーターでホームから下りて、改札口に向かう  東京  (Recorded on Friday, March 12th, 2010, at 6:05 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Yokohama CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show - Counterclockwise Walkabout" (100313-1604)

Counterclockwise walkabout view of the CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show, held at the Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center.  It was a typical hardware show with electronic camera manufacturers displaying their various cameras.  There was also a historical booth showcasing old cameras that was interesting to see.

CP+ Camera & Imaging Show:
http://www.cpplus.jp/en/

Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center:
http://www.pacifico.co.jp/english/

シーピープラス・カメラと写真映像のイベントショー、パシフィコ横浜（逆時計回り）  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 4:04 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Yokohama CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show - Clockwise Walkabout" (100313-1535)

Clockwise walkabout view of the CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show, held at the Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center.  It was a typical hardware show with electronic camera manufacturers displaying their various cameras.  There was also a historical booth showcasing old cameras that was interesting to see.

CP+ Camera & Imaging Show:
http://www.cpplus.jp/en/

Pacifico Yokohama Convention Center:
http://www.pacifico.co.jp/english/

シーピープラス・カメラと写真映像のイベントショー、パシフィコ横浜（時計回り）  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 13th, 2010, at 3:35 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Shinjuku Reflections in the Rain - March 9th, 2010" (100309-1855)

Walking down a rain-soaked sidewalk in Shinjuku - with the colored lights from buildings reflecting off the sidewalk - and then across a busy crosswalk, with a crowd of people headed the other way towards the station.

新宿駅のラッシュ時間 - 雨の中の人々  東京  (Recorded on Tuesday, March 9th, 2010, at 6:55 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Shinjuku Station Jungle Walk - March 9th, 2010" (100309-1853)

Starting at a bookstore within Shinjuku Station, and then walking through the upper level, out the ticket gates, and through the crowds of people coming and going.

新宿駅のラッシュ時間の人々 東京 (Recorded on Tuesday, March 9th, 2010, at 6:53 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Entering Yotsuya Station at Night" (100309-1842)

Coming out of the rain (mixed in with some snow) to Yotsuya Station, going down the stairs to the JR ticket barrier and through the gate - heading towards the stairs down to the platform.

夜の四谷駅に入る  東京  (Recorded on Tuesday, March 9th, 2010, at 6:42 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Walking from Ginza to Yurakucho" (100309-1806)

Walking away from the Sony Building as I leave Ginza and head for Yurakucho Station. (This is the dividing line between Ginza and Yurakucho.)

銀座から、有楽町に入る 東京 (Recorded on Tuesday, March 9th, 2010, at 6:06 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Ginza Back Streets at Night in the Rain" (100309-1802)

After visiting a few art galleries, I came out of a building to discover that night had fallen (gee... it's never done that before...) and it was still raining, which is great for reflections.

銀座 - 雨の中の裏道 東京 (Recorded on Tuesday, March 9th, 2010, at 6:02 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Ginza - 'Can I Interview You?' - 'No'" (100309-1658)

At the beginning of this clip, the woman with the red umbrella, who was marching down the street, minding her own business, was stopped by the woman with the green umbrella (who appeared to be working with a man who had a video camera), and asked (I think - I couldn't hear exactly what they said, but I've seen this scenario many times before when I could hear what they were saying) if she would agree to be interviewed on camera.  She declined and was soon walking again (behind me).

In the old days, back when being recorded in motion with sound was something unique, people were happy to do this, but I've noticed that camera crews often have trouble finding someone to interview now, as one person after another brushes them off.  The novelty is gone and people don't want to waste their time and/or they don't want to be on TV.

銀座でインタビューをしていいですか？ 駄目です  東京  (Recorded on Tuesday, March 9th, 2010, at 4:58 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Walking in the Rain in Ginza" (100309-1536)

Walking down the main street in Ginza in the rain. When there were more small buildings on this street, I used to like walking down it, but now many of the buildings are large (owned by sellers of "brand" bags or whatever), and have men standing at the door to welcome customers (mainly women) and discourage photographers (fair enough, but sometimes it's creepy when you just look in the store from the street and some guy is staring back at you like a security guard - which he probably is). The larger the building, the tighter the security, and the less friendly the area becomes.

I used to think high-rises were interesting (nice view from the top, etc.), but I'm beginning to dislike them - they are increasingly becoming a kind of vertical gated community or gated workspace where everyone without a security badge is forbidden entry, and viewed suspiciously by security guards even when just walking by - minding their own business. If you had written about this sort of thing 50 years ago, it would have been nightmare science fiction....

雨の中銀ブラをする... 東京 (Recorded on Tuesday, March 9th, 2010, at 3:36 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Climbing to Central Ginza from the Ginza Line" (100309-1534)

Getting off of a Ginza Line train at Ginza Station, going up the escalator to the ticket gates, then through the ticket gates and up a flight of stairs to street level.

This is the nice thing about the older subway lines in Tokyo - they're not very deep in the ground, so it doesn't take very long to get from the train to the street.  Getting to the street at Roppongi Station from the Oedo Line (just to name one example that comes to mind) is quite a hike, or - if you have the patience to ride the slowly moving escalators - quite a time burner.

銀座駅で、銀座線を降りて、地球の地面までの散歩  東京  (Recorded on Tuesday, March 9th, 2010, at 3:34 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Nihonbashi Station - Getting on the Ginza Line" (100309-1531)

Walking down the platform at Nihonbashi Station as a Ginza Line train comes into the station, and then climbing aboard. There are some noises peculiar to the Ginza Line and the Marunouchi Line, probably due to the third rail on the ground. All other trains in Tokyo pull their electrical power from an overhead cable.

日本橋駅で銀座線を乗るところ 東京 (Recorded on Tuesday, March 9th, 2010, at 3:31 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Watching Haijima Line Train Arrive at Ogawa Station" (100309-1439)

Waiting for a Seibu-Haijima Line train to arrive at Ogawa Station, and then watching as it pulls into the station.

小川駅で、西武拝島線の電車がやってくる  東京  (Recorded on Tuesday, March 9th, 2010, at 2:39 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Rural Scenery from Window of Seibu-Kokubunji Line" (100309-1437)

View out the left side of a Seibu-Kokubunji Line train as it nears Ogawa Station.

西武国分寺線の窓からの風景  東京  (Recorded on Tuesday, March 9th, 2010, at 2:37 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

Kuramae Koutoku (倉前幸徳) Exhibit at Gallery-403

Kuramae Koutoku (倉前幸徳) had an interesting exhibit of his ceramics this week (3/5-3/11 2010) at Gallery-403 - with a variety of things - some of which are shown in the promotional postcard for the event:

倉前幸徳 / Gallery-403

The dark ones are apparently made from clay he dug up himself on the Izu Peninsula, where he lives.

In contrast to talking to an artist about the drive or meaning behind pictures, with good ceramics, you hold them in your hands and appreciate them.  I suppose there are words to describe them, but for now, I'll just say I liked many of the things at the exhibition!

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Nissan Figaro Shines Again! (After 19 Years)" (100309-1651)

Walking by the Ginza Nissan Showroom (in 5-Chome at the 4-Chome intersection), I idly looked in the window and noticed a familiar car: "Hmm... the lime-green Figaro [officially "emerald green"?].  .....  Wait... where did I last see that...? !!!!! I saw that last weekend while watching one of my old videos from 1991!!  Whoa!!  Time slip dude!"

So naturally, I walked in and asked the models (biped variety) at the counter inside the door about the model (fire-breathing variety) in the window.  They confirmed that it was a 1991 model and was on display for historical reasons.  I went in for pictures and talked about the car some more with another beautiful biped model inside (standing by the car) who told me that not only is it the same model that I saw in March 9th, 1991 (19 years ago to the very day!), but it was the very same car!  (Apparently Nissan has a storage facility to keep examples of its various models.)  She also explained that it was a limited production special edition with only 20,000 units built.

So - to jump back 19 years and see the same car, sitting in the same show window in the same corner building in Ginza, see the video at the following link, which was recorded on March 9th, 1991:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1i52dhp3G0

銀座の日産ショールームの幻のフィガロー  ワオ！ タイムスリップだ！  1991年だ！  東京  (Recorded on Tuesday, March 9th, 2010, at 4:51 p.m.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Nissan Figaro Shines for Ginza Crowd on March 9th, 1991"

On March 9th, 1991, I started my day of video-recording wanderings in Shinbashi, then went over to Shiodome and from there I went to Ginza and spent a few hours wandering around that area, after which I went to Shibuya and met up with some friends (see my posted videos for bits and pieces of that day).  While in Ginza, I walked up (with camera rolling) to the Nissan showroom at the famous 4-Chome intersection and noticed they were showcasing an interesting-looking car called "Figaro".  Many people outside were looking at it with interest and even more in the crowded interior, where I went with my video camera recording the moment.

Watching this video now, I'm reminded how much more interested people were in cars in 1991.  A much weaker economy and car culture saturation has younger people in Tokyo being less interested in cars and in the concept of being a car owner.

Time slip time - fast forward exactly 19 years to March 9th,1991, and I notice the very same car sitting in the same Ginza showroom.  See this video for a March 9th, 2010 view:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmslm_-Fp9U

Notice how empty the showroom is in 2010.  Or course March 9th 2010 was on a Tuesday and March 9th, 1991 was on a Saturday.  Maybe it was just as crowded last Saturday?  In any case, car sales are down and the last Tokyo Motor Show generated much less interest than the shows in the late eighties and early nineties.

1991年3月9日、銀座の日産ショールームのフィガローと1991年の人々  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 9th, 1991.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Fun in Shibuya on Saturday Night, March 9th, 1991"

Beginning on the inside of a bus I took from Roppongi to Shibuya, and then staying in Shibuya where I met friends in Hachiko Square, saw a cool street band, watched a Corvette drive past, had fun in a drinking place, and then went to Shibuya Station for one of the last trains home.

Watching this now, it does look like things were rocking in the "bubble era", although for the most part, I remember life being just ordinary life back then.  Certainly there was a lot of money flying around the economy then, so entertainment (restaurants, drinking places, concerts, etc.) did really well, but it didn't really change how things were on a day-to-day basis so much.  Of course, now the economy seems to be getting worse and worse, by contrast, it's looking increasingly like a very different era....

1991年3月9日、渋谷までバスを乗って、友達を会って飲み屋に行って...  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 9th, 1991.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Magic Ring Hawker in Ginza on March 9th, 1991"

Views of the weekend "Pedestrian Paradise" in Ginza where I ran into the same man I had seen hawking "magic rings" in Shinbashi earlier in the day. At first I didn't realize it was the same guy, but figured it out after getting a good look at his face in Ginza, where he attracted a larger crowd of people than he had in Shinbashi. Since he let several people attempt to get the ring off the coil themselves, many were intrigued and several ended up buying one (for Y300).

For anyone who has seen some of the Tora-san (Otoko-wa Tsurai-yo) movies, this shows that some people really were earning money hawking things in public places, as the Tora-san character does in the movie series. What with the advent of the strong yen, a flood of imports, and Y100 shops, you see much less of this sort of thing now.

1991年3月9日、銀座の週末のマジックリング一人販売 東京 (Recorded on Saturday, March 9th, 1991.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Jumping-Into-the-Frame Man in Ginza on March 9th, 1991"

Stretching up into someone's picture instead of ducking down to get out of it - this is something that happened to me often enough in 1991 Tokyo, that I suspect some television comedy show introduced it to people's imaginations and suddenly people were doing it all over the city.  It's kind of hard to imagine that a large number of people would independently get it into their heads to do this.  I didn't really care, but just found it odd that so many would suddenly be doing the same maneuver.

This was taken on the main road through Ginza, which was (still is?) shut off to fire-breathing machinery on weekends so people can freely walk around without the inconvenience, noise, and noxious gasses of motor vehicles getting in the way.

1991年3月9日、銀座の週末のビデオ撮影に頑張って入る人  東京  (Recorded on Saturday, March 9th, 1991.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/

"Magic Ring Hawker in Shinbashi on March 9th, 1991"

Views of "SL Plaza" in front of Shinbashi Station in 1991, where a man hawking "magic rings" attracted a crowd of people trying to figure out how they worked. Selling for Y300 each, he seemed to be fairly successful at selling them.

If you look closely at the background in this video, there are several buildings that have since been torn down to make way for new structures. Old solid-color Keihin-Tohoku Line trains can be seen passing by as well.

1991年3月9日、新橋駅前のSL広場のマジックリング一人販売 東京 (Recorded on Saturday, March 9th, 1991.)

Lyle (Hiroshi) Saxon
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~LLLtrs/
http://youtube.com/lylehsaxon
http://tokyoartmusic.blogspot.com/