Sunday in Harajuku
I spent an unexpectedly sunny Sunday in stylish Harajuku, starting in the lively Yoyogi Park.
A popular picnic and hangout site, especially on a Sunday afternoon, it attracts a lot of people who like share their art in a busy yet mellow public setting.
Musicians bring their stand, music, and axe, sitting on a bench, practicing their scales or etudes.
Dancers practice their moves.
Several pickup groups played long elaborate jam sessions on the drums. None of these guys were busking—they performing purely for the sake of being with fellow musicians and sharing their art.
And in some cases, it wasn’t completely clear what form of performance they wanted to share.
And a lot of people just wanted to dress up a little bit and people watch.
Crossing a busy road on a pedestrian bridge, I walked across to a nearby sports park, where a group of young people were practicing a synchronized dance.
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A market was selling organic farm products, and I bought a steamed bun for lunch. Thousands of young people were patiently lined up at the nearby stadium for an afternoon concert by Japanese megagroup Bump of Chicken. I decided to head for the shopping area to see if I could find some of the cosplayers.
Tree-lined Ometesando Avenue is sometimes referred to as Tokyo’s Champs Elysee. Lined with posh shops and well-heeled shoppers, I could see the resemblance, although the crowds were unbelievable, and I didn’t stay long.
Harajuku style refers to the various flavors of extreme clothing that can be found on parade, arguably setting global trends…for something.
Harajuku has a reputation of attracting Japan’s extravagantly costumed young people. Having my fill of maid culture the previous day, and on the lookout for something different. I found a gothic lolita helping a gothic crossdresser with his makeup.