By: Alex
Many global tourist destinations have become deserted due to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, often exuding an eerie atmosphere through photographers’ lenses. However, Akihabara in Tokyo, a sacred site for anime fans, has looked like a deserted street at night for as long as anyone can remember. A recent series by Japanese photographer @urbex_34 captures this almost otherworldly scene—where only the lights from street lamps, signs, and vending machines pierce the darkness, making it hard to believe this is a street in Tokyo itself.
▲ "Empty Akihabara. It felt like I had wandered into another world. Shooting there was quite an interesting experience."
He tweeted, “It felt like I had gotten lost in another world.” From the photos, all shops are shuttered, the streets are void of pedestrians or vehicles, and only a few advertising signs remain lit. The residual light reflecting off the wet pavement creates a serene beauty, yet also conceals an unsettling sense of emptiness.
▲ (photo by urbex_34 @twitter)
▲ (photo by urbex_34 @twitter)
Those who have visited Akihabara during the day and experienced the bustling streets and jam-packed shops may find it hard to imagine how quiet and hollow it becomes at night. In fact, this hub for anime and video game merchandise is essentially a shopping district, with most stores closing before 9 PM. Although there are some restaurants and izakayas nearby, compared to true 24-hour cities like Shinjuku and Roppongi, Akihabara becomes eerily empty after dinner, resembling a ghost town.
▲ (photo by urbex_34 @twitter)
▲ (photo by urbex_34 @twitter)
Photographer @urbex_34 enjoys urban exploration and is passionate about ruins photography. Fans can find more of his work on his Twitter.
Source: SoraNews24, urbex_34