Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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Eastern Gate to Yokohama Chinatown
Location: Yokohama Chinatown, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 17:51 March 15, 2023
One of six gates to Yokohama Chinatown, the Chukagai Higashimon (中華街東門; lit. Chinatown East Gate). In Chinese, the gate is referred to as Choyomon (朝陽門; lit. Sunrise Gate) and is the largest of the six gates.
The primary color associated with this gate is blue as its guardian deity is the Azure Dragon. The Azure Dragon is also depicted as a god of spring and prosperity, the guardian deity for the east, and is always depicted in tones of blue.
The gate is right across the street from Exit No. 1 of Motomomachi-Chukagai Station on the Minatomirai Line.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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Italian Restaurant
Location: Yamashitacho, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
Timestamp: 17:56 March 15, 2023
There are several Italian restaurants scattered throughout Naka Ward and Nishi Ward in central Yokohama.
This restaurant, established over 50 years ago, always catches my eye whenever I walk by for its use of a lifebuoy alongside a huge figure of a St. Bernard. I understand the imagery of a lifebuoy and how it can easily represent Italy’s relation to the sea. The relation of a St. Bernard to Italy, however, is not so clear to me.
Maybe the shop owner had a St. Bernard they dearly loved who had passed away, and the figure helps to fill an empty space in their heart. Or maybe it was a gift from a very good customer who regularly visits, thus making it hard for the shop to discard it. Or maybe the “dog” is just used to advertise to potential patrons that the deck of the restaurant is pet friendly.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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Historical Building and Museum
Location: Yamashitacho, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
Timestamp: 18:00 March 15, 2023
Constructed in 1922, this red brick building stands out amidst the contemporary structures that line the street adjacent to Yamashita Park in the Port of Yokohama.
Originally named British Mansion No. 7, the edifice served as the Yokohama branch of a British trading company, and remarkably, it is the sole trading house in Yokohama to have survived the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake.
In 1979, the structure underwent refurbishment and was renamed as the Toda Peace Memorial Hall. As a testament to its historic significance, the city of Yokohama granted the building an official Historic Building certification in 2001.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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Gas Lamps at Park Entrance
Location: Yamashita Park Central Entrance, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
Timestamp: 18:04 March 15, 2023
Yamashita Park, a cherished sanctuary from the urban sprawl of Tokyo and Yokohama, was constructed on the former waterfront using rubble of the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923.
This photograph captures a stone pedestal and gas lamps embellishing the park's main entrance. The Hikawa Maru, a cargo and passenger ship that navigated the waters from Japan to Vancouver and Seattle between 1929 and 1941, is visible in the background.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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Waterfront Skyline at Dusk
Location: Yamashita Park, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
Timestamp: 18:15 March 15, 2023
Located just 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) from Tokyo, the port of Yokohama once housed numerous heavy manufacturing industries and warehouses that eventually resulted in rising pollution and land degradation.
During my first visit to Yokohama's waterfront in the early 1980s, I discovered abandoned plots of land, neglected buildings, idle shipyards, and various old structures requiring significant renovation.
However, by the late 1990s, the waterfront had undergone a complete transformation, emerging as a vibrant city center with state-of-the-art ports, entertainment and amusement districts, historic buildings, parks, convention centers, new hotels, and office spaces catering to global industries.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 80 for 30.0 sec. at ƒ/11
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Marine Tower at Night
Location: Yamashita Park, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
Timestamp: 18:17 March 15, 2023
The Port of Yokohama constructed this tower in 1961 as part of its centennial celebration, which became the tallest lighthouse globally until 2008 (106 m/347.76 ft).
During my first visit to the top of the tower in 1984, I was impressed by the diverse assortment of exotic birds that flew freely within an aviary.
In 2009, the tower underwent renovations to commemorate the Port of Yokohama's 150th anniversary.
Recently, the latest upgrades were completed in 2022, which included the addition of new restaurants, gift shops, a wedding hall, and an observation deck featuring an evening light show.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 80 for 30.0 sec. at ƒ/11
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Port of Yokohama Nightscape
Location: Yamashita Park, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
Timestamp: 18:25 March 15, 2023
Yamashita Park boasts a picturesque view of Yokohama's port area, complete with the iconic Hikawa Maru, a retired Japanese ocean liner, and the striking Yokohama Bay Bridge.
The Hikawa Maru, which sailed the seas from 1930 to 1960, served various functions as a cargo passenger liner, hospital ship, and repatriation vessel for Japanese citizens and soldiers after World War II.
Since 1961, the ship has been permanently docked at Yamashita Park and transformed into a museum. I first explored the ship's classic design and beautiful interior during the mid-80s, and it has continued to entice me back ever since.
The cable-stayed Yokohama Bay Bridge, which opened in 1989, generated a sigh of relief by alleviating traffic congestion caused by container trucks traveling to and from nearby piers.
Crossing the bridge for the first time in 1989 was a thrilling experience for me, as it was the sole long-span bridge in Tokyo Bay and a favorite weekend driving destination.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 80 for 15.0 sec. at ƒ/11
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American Style Diner
Location: Kaiko-Hiroba Intersection, Yokohama, Japan
Timestamp: 18:36 March 15, 2023
Since 2016, Penny's Diner has been serving up American-style hamburgers from its location in the Yokohama Boeki-Kaikan building.
Although the diner has an aesthetic reminiscent of 1950s America, what caught my attention is the historic building it's situated in.
The Yokohama Boeki-Kaikan building was constructed in 1929 as the headquarters for the Yokohama Trade Association, during the period of recovery following the devastating Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923.
It's noteworthy that the building not only withstood the bombings of World War II but also still stands today, along with two other pre-war buildings on the same street near Yamashita Park and Osanbashi Pier.
Mosaic Floor Tiles
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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Newspaper Delivery Boxes
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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Pro Negative High film simulation
Antique Door Stoppers (?)
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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Antique Hand Truck Converted into Signboard
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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Japan Express Building Entrance
Location: Kaiko-Hiroba Intersection, Yokohama, Japan
Timestamp: 18:39 March 15, 2023
The Japan Express Building was constructed in 1930 at the time the city of Yokohama was facing head-on reconstruction of the city that had been leveled by the devastating Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923.
Shops in the building have taken advantage of the original woodwork and interior elements to evoke a pleasant mix of the Showa Era and modern aesthetics.
Exploring the building’s small entrance is like stepping back in to the early Showa Era where much has not changed for over 80 years!
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 3200 for 1/100 sec. at ƒ/2.0
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Pastel Colored Plaster Relief
Location: Osanbashi Kyodo Building, Yokohama, Japan
Timestamp: 18:47 March 15, 2023
The Sorairo Gelato shop can be found on the first floor of the Osanbashi Kyodo Building, which dates back to around April 1929.
The shop is situated along the street that leads to the Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal.
The pastel colors of this plaster relief on the shop’s exterior immediately caught my attention. I look forward to coming back when the weather is warmer to sample some of their delicious gelato.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 3200 for 1/170 sec. at ƒ/2.0
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Historical Mural Under Bridge
Location: Yamashita Rinko Line Promenade, Yokohama, Japan
Timestamp: 18:50 March 15, 2023
As you make your way towards the Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal, you will come across a beautiful mural located beneath the Yamashita Rinko Line Promenade pedestrian overpass. The artwork showcases the Port of Yokohama during the year 1870, featuring a collection of ships anchored offshore, cargo being unloaded from barges, foreign consulates, and the Japanese customs office.
It's worth noting that this mural is actually a faithful reproduction of a woodblock print originally created by Utagawa Hiroshige III and published in 1870. The original works of Hiroshige III can be found in various collections including the British Museum, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Victoria & Albert Museum.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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Small Duo-Tone Cafe
Location: Osanbashi Street, Yokohama, Japan
Timestamp: 18:52 March 15, 2023
As you approach the Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal, the Hama Cafe catches your eye with its vibrant interior and two-tone exterior of understated white and faded red, situated on the left side of the street.
My first visit to this section of Osanbashi Pier was over 30 years ago in the 1990s, and back then, Hama Cafe and all the other establishments were pleasantly shaded by the trees and shrubs lining the street.
Unfortunately, the city decided to remove all the trees in 2018, which I sorely miss during my visits on scorching summer days.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 160 for 18.0 sec. at ƒ/10
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Harbor Waterfront & Wharf
Location: Zou-no-Hana Breakwater, Port of Yokohama, Japan
Timestamp: 18:59 March 15, 2023
Zou-no-Hana Breakwater marks the original location of Japan's first modern international trading port, the Port of Yokohama, established in 1859. The breakwater extends about 160 meters into the bay and provides visitors with a picturesque view of illuminated artwork in the Zou-no-Hana wharf (center).
Additionally, two historically significant buildings are also lit up, namely the Yokohama Customs building (right), also known as Queen's Tower, built in 1934, and the Kanagawa Prefectural Government's Office (left), also known as King's Tower, constructed in 1928. The third tower, Yokohama Port Opening Memorial Hall, named Jack's Tower, erected in 1917, is presently undergoing renovations and is not visible.
Once serving as lighthouses, these three towers hold a special place in the hearts of sailors, who considered them as guardians of their safe voyage to Japan. According to urban legend, sailors felt relieved upon sighting these towers, and over time, they started to regard them as symbols of protection during their journey to Japan.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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Nightscape of the Port of Yokohama
Location: Zou-no-Hana Breakwater, Port of Yokohama, Japan
Timestamp: 19:06 March 15, 2023
Zou-no-Hana Breakwater is an offshore structure located in the Port of Yokohama, which is a major seaport in Japan.
In this shot, I have used a lifebuoy to frame one of the many beautiful and picturesque views from the breakwater, where visitors can see the illuminated Yokohama Marine Tower and the Hotel New Grand, both of which are located right across the street from the lovely Yamashita-Koen Park on Yokohama’s waterfront.
The Marine Tower is a landmark of Yokohama and stands at 106 meters tall (348 ft) with observation decks on the 29th and 30th floors. It is illuminated at night and adds to the beautiful scenery of the area.
The Hotel New Grand is a luxury hotel that was built in 1927. It has a rich history and has hosted many famous guests over the years. The hotel offers a stunning view of the bay and is known for its excellent service and hospitality.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
① ISO 3200 for 1/60 sec. at ƒ/2.0
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Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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Historical Art Deco Government Building
Location: Kanagawa Prefectural Government Office, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
Timestamp: 19:25 March 15, 2023
The Kanagawa Prefecture Government Office was reconstructed in 1928 after being destroyed in the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. It holds the distinction of being the second-oldest prefectural government office in Japan that is still operational.
This building, known as the "King's Tower," boasts an art deco design with geometric elements that were popular in early 20th century Europe, and has a central tower that resembles a five-story pagoda. Notably, it was designated as a national tangible cultural asset in 2019 and is frequently used as a filming location for various Japanese movies and TV dramas.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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Former Bank Branch in Finance District
Location: Bashamichi Building, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
Timestamp: 19:47 March 15, 2023
Bashamichi Building was born as the Yokohama Branch of Yasuda Bank, a prominent Japanese bank until the end of WWII. After WWII, Yasuda Bank resurfaced with a new identity as Fuji Bank and used this building for their Yokohama Branch. After a merger in 2002, Fuji Bank shuttered the building and its Yokohama branch office.
This closure led to the Architectural Institute of Japan appealing for the preservation of the building noting the building’s Palazzo architecture reminiscent of the Italian renaissance and its use of rough masonry (rustica) on the exterior. As a result, the building was granted recognition as a Yokohama City Historical Building in 2003 and was purchased by the city of Yokohama.
Today, Bashamichi Building is home to the Yokohama campus of the Graduate School of Film and New Media at the Tokyo University of the Arts, serving as an important cultural and educational center in the city.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
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City Skyline on Harbor Waterfront
Location: Bankoku Bridge, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
Timestamp: 19:56 March 15, 2023
This photograph captures the stunning night view of the Minatomirai waterfront district, as seen from the Bankoku Bridge. Originally constructed in 1903 and surviving the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake, the current span was rebuilt in 1940. The name "Bankokubashi" translates to "bridge to 10,000 countries," which reflects its early significance in facilitating international trade through the Port of Yokohama.
Initially, the bridge served as the primary access point to the newly reclaimed land used for the Port of Yokohama and the customs house. Today, it has become a popular attraction for tourists and photographers seeking a picturesque view of the Minatomirai skyline. Furthermore, the Bankoku Bridge is one of the main entry points to the Red Brick Warehouse quarter.
The image also shows a long-exposure shot of the vibrant, rainbow-colored lights of passenger pods on the Yokohama Air Cabin urban ropeway connecting Sakuragicho Station with the World Porter’s department store. The ropeway, which started operating in April 2021, is the latest addition to the waterfront skyline.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 80 for 30.0 sec. at ƒ/11
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Weeping Cherry Blossoms in City Park
Location: Yamashita Park, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture
Timestamp: 20:44 March 15, 2023
This photo showcases a lovely night vista of weeping cherry tree blossoms (Prunus pendula / ”shidare-zakura” in Japanese) located in Yamashita-Koen Park. The trio of trees can be found adjacent to a large rose garden, situated on the opposite side of the road from the historically renowned Hotel New Grand (established 1927). Depending on your vantage point, you may also be able to include Yokohama Marine Tower in the backdrop of the cherry blossoms.
These three trees were generously donated and relocated from Miyagi Prefecture in northeastern Japan to Yokohama by the former Yokohama-East branch of Lions Club International back in 1993.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 80 for 30.0 sec. at ƒ/11
Astia Soft film simulation
Modern-Day Marine Tower from Retired Lighthouse
Location: Yamashita Park, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
Timestamp: 20:50 March 15, 2023
As part of its centennial celebration, the Port of Yokohama constructed a tower in 1961 that became the tallest lighthouse in the world, towering at 106 meters (347.76 feet) until 2008. During my first visit in 1984, I was pleasantly surprised to discover a fascinating variety of exotic birds flying freely in an aviary at the top of the tower.
To commemorate the Port of Yokohama's 150th anniversary, the tower underwent renovations in 2009. Recently, in 2022, the tower received further upgrades, which included the addition of new restaurants, gift shops, a wedding hall, and an observation deck featuring a stunning evening light show.
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