Nihon Noir: Capturing Tokyo’s Night Life

An Artistic Vision

Inspired by Neon-noir films such as “Blade Runner” and “Drive,” Australian photographer Tom Blachford offers mesmerizing views of Tokyo at night in his series “Nihon Noir.” This collection not only showcases the city’s vibrant nightlife but also emphasizes its rich history, particularly through the Edo-Tokyo Museum, which chronicles the city’s past during the Edo period (1603-1868) and was completed in 1993. Blachford describes his work: “A stitched panorama with my widest lens showing the full facade of the building and through its massive underbelly to the skyline below.” His perspective adds a haunting yet beautiful layer to the iconic structures of Tokyo.

Architectural Highlights

One of the standout structures featured is the building designed by Kiyunori Kikutake, which presents a symmetrical cantilevered silhouette reminiscent of traditional Edo period storehouses. Blachford notes, “From this angle, it looks like a robotic bulldog, as if it is about to walk away or suddenly jet into the sky.” The absence of external lighting, save for the blinking aeroplane warning lights, enhances its alien aesthetic.

Moreover, the Tokyo Big Sight complex, designed by ASX Satow, stands as the city’s largest exhibition center located on the Tokyo Bay waterfront. Blachford was drawn to its resemblance to the Tyrell Corporation Headquarters from ‘Blade Runner’, noting its repetitive triangle motif. His experience at this site illustrated the uniqueness of Tokyo’s architectural landscape.

Urban Exploration

Exploring Tokyo’s dense urban fabric reveals countless buildings that showcase incredible geometry and a seemingly infinite skyline. Blachford reflects, “This shot for me tries to communicate the feeling that there are buildings as far as the eye can see.” Such perspectives encapsulate the essence of metropolitan life in Tokyo.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tom Blachford’s “Nihon Noir” offers a compelling look at the complexities of Tokyo’s architecture and night life, transporting viewers into a world where modernity meets tradition. Each image tells a story, inviting the audience to reflect on the beauty of urban landscapes and the narratives they hold.