Ninja Bear in Tokyo

Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Shibuya Scramble Crossing, where many people cross paths simultaneously, is one of the most well known spots in Tokyo.
Where is everyone going in such a hurry? Within the throngs of people, a ninja may be lurking.

If you don’t assert yourself, you may be buried or swept away.
Although brimming with people, the place holds a certain unease.
Am I blending in here?

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SHIBUYA STREAM

This commercial facility was redeveloped on the former site of the Tokyu Toyoko Line’s Shibuya Station. The place simultaneously brings novelty to those who don’t know its past and nostalgia to those who do.

The Shibuya River in the background divides not only space but perhaps time as well.
The right side expresses the present and the left side the past.
This place once saw many pairs of lovers.
At the object of the old Toyoko Line’s Shibuya Station.

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Zojoji Temple

Zojoji Temple, which also contains the graves of the Shogun Tokugawa’s household from the Edo period, is one of the most well known temples in Japan.
The juxtaposition of the temple with Tokyo Tower in the background evokes “Tokyo” and “Edo” simultaneously.

The Daiden (Main Hall), where many people come to worship, is the centre of the temple.
With Tokyo Tower in the background, the Ninja also faces the blowing wind.
This is Sangedatsumon (Main Gate), the entrance to Zojoji.
The name means “the gate which enlightens the three worldly desires.”
The outer walkway of the Daiden.
The chill sensation makes the ninja cool and dignified.
On the steps next to Zojoji Temple, the ninja and companions rest.

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Model : Miho Nishi
Photographer : Tomoharu Nishimura