In part 2 of my post on Ginza I’d like to show there is more to Ginza than beautifully presented stores selling up-market products. Where better to start than with a Ginza institution, Meida-Ya (pics 1 and 2).

Meida-Ya is an up-market grocery store (established in 1885) whose headquarters and flagship store is located in Ginza. Operating under the motto of “The Highest Quality for Everyone Everytime”, the business now operates a network of 12 stores across the Tokyo metropolis and 14 stores elsewhere in Japan, as well as two international stores in Amsterdam and Singapore. A visit to their Ginza store will show adherence to their motto, not to mention the temptation to try some of the goodies on offer.

Despite the dominating impact of the big name brands, there is still room for independent operators to cater to those shoppers looking for individuality and quirkiness. I was quite taken by the two shops shown at pic 3, one catering for a young contemporary market and the other specializing in kimono – the most traditional of Japanese clothing. The birdcage and the coolest umbrella stand (made from a converted violin) (pic 4) draw attention to the store and add further to its individuality.

Those wishing to preserve their credit cards can also find more reasonably priced goods by exploring the quieter side and backstreets, as shown by the small footwear store at pics 5 and 6.

Art galleries are quite numerous in the Ginza area and art lovers could easily spend an interesting day wandering the streets and enjoying the exhibitions on offer. What one finds is naturally dependent on the exhibitions at any given time, though one is likely to find work ranging from jovial Buddhas (pic 8) to antiquities (pic 9). One may even come across some mobile installation art, such as Ugueno (pic 7) parked curbside. I am unsure what the work represents, but I believe it may be an alternative and highly contrasting form of flower arrangement. Whatever the message, it was noticed on the streets of Ginza.

Ginza’s shops and offices support a large workforce, thus creating a demand for bars and restaurants where workers may relax and unwind. Pics 12 to 18 show a sample of the bars and eateries, many of which can be found in Ginza’s quieter streets and laneways.

Walking around Japanese streets, one cannot help but notice the distinctive manhole covers. Rather than cheap, nondescript covers, one frequently comes across eye-catching, decorative covers that enhance the streetscape, such as the cover captured at pic 19. It seems to me that applying this level of attention to such a utilitarian item is yet another way to create pride in local neighbourhoods.

To prove that Ginza is not all gleam and glitter, I have chosen to end this two-part post with pic 20 – a photograph of rubbish awaiting collection. Yes, even Ginza needs to dispose of its rubbish, but as can be seen, it too is very tidy and well organised.

(Please click on any of the following images for an enlarged view.)