Framing Japan as a land of contrasts is undoubtedly a cliche, but there is no denying that the everyday juxtaposition of the ancient and modern is one of this country’s more striking aspects, as well as a major driver of inbound tourism.
While ancient buildings dotted among glittering skyscrapers may not be a sight unique to Tokyo, 17th century clothing still being commonly worn on the streets of a 21st century metropolis certainly is.
Japan’s living history is always front and center, and it can easily be found in any of the countless small workshops and studios that still produce clothing, food and crafts using methods unchanged for centuries.