Is that a Mexican skull with Japanese clouds and light rays?

This friendly young guy reminded me that even in Japan, “tattoos are not a crime.” I love how his shoulder piece combines Mexican and Japanese motifs. At Ink Rat in Koenji.

Hello, white sand, yankiis, and a row of inflatable donuts

 

Chiba’s Onjuku remains one of my favorite day trips from Tokyo. Beach is gorgeous, you can rent most anything you need, and the tattooed yankiis are super friendly.

Hello, and please look at me

 

A camera is a great way to make friends. Why are these boys so friendly when approached by the older, foreign pervert?

Gay beach in Chiba offers nudity and fraternity

 

So I finally made it to the famous gay nudist beach in Chiba. It’s near Namihana station, just north of Onjuku. You really need a friend to show you how to get there since it involves a long walk or short taxi from the station. You start at a lagoon, trek through a lot of mud, pass the “do not enter” sign, through a long wet tunnel, descend with a rope, and watch the cliff edge as you reach the beach.

I had heard all these stories about how sexual and “shocking” the beach was. Actually, it seems very innocent and friendly. Lots of regulars who live in Chiba who were super chatty and spent a lot of time posing for group naked photos. It’s far from Tokyo but gorgeous!

Adorable food vendor at Shinjuku Nichome Rainbow Matsuri

I like how his very official robe seems to be slipping off. The bright color, contrasting checks, and even the dots on the headband all add a fun punch. Louche and friendly is a good combination.