Sometimes you’re just biking on your way somewhere, and suddenly an unexpected sight distracts you. This utility box worker has everything: great uniform, safety vest, helmet, towel, tools, orange hair, and one leg bent pose. I am glad that men like these are keeping Tokyo functioning.
One-piece wonders. Love the jump suit tucked into rubber boots. And the purse-shaped handbag casually slung over the shoulder. I swoon just remembering this apparition.
The only way to improve this look would be the adorable “dirty labor” white boots worn by butchers, ramen shop cooks, cleaning crews, and the like.
On Yamate Dori between Nakano and Shibuya under an elevated freeway.
Construction workers in Japan (called gatenki) wear the most fashionable work clothes. Often paired with two- toed shoes, they wear these huge balloon pants. My friend J-son thinks they are very Yoji Yamamoto. Many also have colored and fried hair, few eyebrows, and what seems to be copious tattoos. I like how they interact with each other and the city: aloof from outsiders, intimate with one another. I wonder how many are gay.
Spotting gatenki taking a break or walking through the city always cheers me up!
Tokyo Moe 