Disappearing Tokyo

On this fascinating photowalk of a lesser-known Tokyo neighborhood, photographer Lee Chapman guides you through the changing streets he has been documenting through his photographs for over a decade. Far from the steel and glass monuments of Shinjuku and Shibuya, this low-lying neighborhood in the shadow of Tokyo Skytree has been slowly evolving away from its working-class identity. Lee introduces you to the main characters of his story, buildings and businesses that have survived decades in this neighborhood. Others survive only in memory, memorialized by Lee's beautiful images that he shows you as you walk, sometimes standing in front of the place that no longer exists. Take a short break in a tiny local restaurant or coffee shop where Lee knows the owners by name to enjoy a refreshing drink or an inexpensive meal as Lee shares his memories and thoughts about the changing neighborhood. If time allows, finish the tour at a location made famous in Wem Wenders's film, "Perfect Days."

Lee is well-known in the neighborhood from his consistent presence over the years, so you'll be greeted by friendly locals who know Lee and have likely been photographed by him. Every interaction is wonderful and unrehearsed, a tribute to the people of this incredible "disappearing" city. Along the way, Lee provides tips from a pro photographer about composition, technique, and capturing the decisive moment. Lee tells a story of both sadness and hope. Although much of Tokyo's past will disappear and never return, there is a growing movement among young entrepreneurs to bring life back to this neighborhood and save important places from destruction. Lee may introduce you to some of these important people as you walk through the neighborhood, and explain how they are attempting to preserve the past for future generations to enjoy.

Lee Chapman is a freelance photographer, long-term Tokyo resident, and self-described “lover of all things Showa and dated,” whose work has been featured in The Guardian, The Japan Times, and The Economist. Since moving to Japan in 1998, he has focused his lens on the city’s overlooked backstreets, documenting neighborhoods and lives under constant threat from Tokyo’s rapid redevelopment. His images capture the quiet resilience of its older districts, and the human stories embedded in everyday spaces, preserving fleeting moments that reveal both fragility and strength. As an old Tokyo photowalk guide, Lee’s approach is rooted in patience and respect — he guides travelers into areas far from the glossy image of modern Tokyo, sharing insider knowledge and personal connections built over decades. Each walk is both a lesson in photography and an intimate exploration of a Tokyo that is fast disappearing but not yet forgotten.

A camera, preferably one with manual control over some settings, for capturing images of your day and learning techniques from Lee. Comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be covering a fairly long distance. Seasonal recommendations: a small umbrella (for sun or rain), a water bottle, a sun hat, and sunscreen.