Ota ku people

Living in Tokyo for so many years also means spending time far from the usual central spots. Sometimes I want to notice the changes in well-known corners of the metropolis, other times I feel like wandering into new places.

Ota ward, on the southern side of the city, is one of those areas where everyday life flows quietly, without much noise. People here don’t chase attention — they just go on with their lives.

Last Sunday I took a long walk through the neighborhood, and these are some of the people I met along the way. I set out to explore the city, but what is it without the people who give it shape?

These faces and places might speak differently to each of us. I talked to some, so my impression was shaped by our conversation; with others I didn’t exchange words, and everything is left to imagination — I’m curious what stands out to you.