HIROSHIGE AND VAN GOGH

HIROSHIGE AND VAN GOGH
Read About Van Gogh's Secret Visit to Japan

WELCOME TO BLOGABOUTJAPAN

WELCOME TO BLOGABOUTJAPAN
IT WAS A SPECIAL TIME IN MY LIFETIME

APT WITH TATAMI MATS, a special time in my lifetime in Japan...

APT WITH TATAMI MATS, a special time in my lifetime in Japan...
Watercolor by R.L.Huffstutter

COMPARISONS IN ART

COMPARISONS IN ART
HIROSHIGE'S WORK ON LEFT, VAN GOGH'S ON RIGHT

YOKOHAMA PICTURE SHOW

YOKOHAMA PICTURE SHOW
Shot with my Petri in Yokohama 1962

RICE FIELD IN JAPAN 1962

RICE FIELD IN JAPAN 1962
I took this with my PETRI in Kanagawa Prefecture

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

VINCENT VAN GOGH'S SECRET VISIT TO YOKOHAMA

VINCENT VAN GOGH ACCESS TO CAMERAS WERE LIMITED...but his friend, Abe Yamashita, managed to take the sets of photos he wanted for works if his time in the Orient became limited. There were those in the government in Paris who were concerned about Vincent's presence in Japan once they learned he was in Yokohama. There were arguments, however, about Vincent's exact location and they knew that by the time they located him and tried convincing him to return, he could be off in some picturesque little inn near the Inland Sea., Theo, however, was not too concerned; he knew that once his brother found the comfortable and serence place he liked, he wouldn't likely move for any reason.
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Credits for this photo are listed in other areas of this blog where this photo appears. It is from a collection at the New York Public Library

Monday, December 27, 2010

Lake Shikotu-ko Chitose-city introduction 千歳市紹介

Lake Shikotu-ko Chitose-city introduction 千歳市紹介
Chitose is located at a latitude of 42 degrees north, and borders Sapporo, the political, economic and cultural center of Hokkaido. The city is also situated in south-central Hokkaido and at the southern end of the Ishikari Plain. At New Chitose Airport (one of Japan’s major hubs), 33 domestic routes, 11 international routes to six countries and 21 international charter routes to 13 countries are in service (as of 2007). Additionally, Tomakomai Port, which hosts international container routes, is located approximately 26 km from the city center (30 minutes by car). The city is constantly developing as a domestic and international physical distribution base as well as an important transportation hub.
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MY COMMENTS ABOUT THIS EXCELLENT PHOTOGRAPH

My first impression upon viewing this marvelous photograph concerned the elements of our lifetime. It would be up to us to add the fire, but one can sense the photographers energy as it associates with lively sky, the waves lapping at the shoreline, the boulders and the rocks still in the process of becoming sand. Yes, it was energy and beauty combined that became visual in an abstract manner.

To be less philosophical, let me say simply that I think it is one of the best scenes I have viewed.

CONGRATULATIONS TO CHITOSE-KIM FOR THIS BEAUTIFUL PHOTOGRAPH.
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Uploaded by Chitose-Kim on 14 Dec 10, 1.36AM PST.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

VAN GOGH'S SECRET VISIT TO JAPAN: COLLAGE #1 by R.L.Huffstutter

VAN GOGH'S SECRET VISIT TO JAPAN: COLLAGE #1 by R.L.Huffstutter
STUFF IN BOXES AND OLD REMINDERS OF ANOTHER TIME AND PLACE
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Do you suppose Vincent would have enjoyed the Bar Mickey or the Club Latin Quarter? I'll put my money on the Latin Quarter. Bar Sparta is not even in the picture. It is probable that Van Gogh would have enjoyed painting the shrines. I was fascinated by the shrines upon my arrival, but the perspectives and complexities were just too much for me. I had so many other events scheduled that taking time to do the shrines right would have consumed a considerable amount of time. Perhaps, on my return I will try some plein-aire shrine painting

Sunday, December 19, 2010

THE OLD TRAMS OF YOKOHAMA 1960S by R.L.Huffstutter

The street cars of Yokohama will forever remain in my mind; they were a fun way to get around. Because there was 360 yen to the dollar when I was in Japan, many of us used taxis more than street cars, but they were forever a presence in my mind. I recall one night, near the bund, when I consciously reminded myself that at some time in the far future I would recall the spark, the sound, the streetcars of Yokohama.
Street Scene Antique Postcard

Friday, December 17, 2010

AN ESSAY ON SAKE AND LIFE

AN ESSAY ON SAKE AND LIFE

AN ESSAY ON SAKE AND LIFE

FIRST CLASS FLIGHT TO TOKYO 1961

MY LOVE AFFAIR WITH JAPAN BEGAN LONG AGO
CHAPTER ONE
My love for Japan began long before I arrived at Tokyo International Airport in August 1961.

The flight from San Francisco in a Pan American 707 was joyful. After a brief stop in Hawaii, we were told that our next stop would be Japan. Kimono clad women employed by the Japan Tourist Bureau served us Kirin and Sapporo beer in-flight.

The captain announced we were flying over Midway Island and shortly afterwards, we were affored hot towels rolled and foled in a unique manner. Some of us sailors were curious about the towels and unrolled them, wiped our brows and disposed of them. The attendants laughed politely and demonstrated how the hot towel should be pressed to our brows and over our eyes, a resfreshing introduction to what we would remember later when we were able to enjoy the ofuro.

Of course, that did not happen aboard the plane; it was mentioned by some of the older servicement who had been to Japan. So we pressed the steaming towels to our brows, then over or eyes. It was a refreshing event and one that I still perform upon waking.

When the plane arrived, we were met by special buses that drove us to our new duty stations, Atsugi Naval Air Base.

Chapter Two will be posted if there is anyone interested in my tour of duty in a New Japan.
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FIRST CLASS FLIGHT TO TOKYO 1961
Uploaded by roberthuffstutter on 17 Aug 09, 7.39PM PST.

Street Car Sapporo 1963


Street Car Sapporo 1963
Originally uploaded by asachitose
Street Car Sapporo 1963

Uploaded by asachitose on 22 Aug 10, 6.46AM PST.
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If only I had taken a trip to Sapporo while I was in Japan, I would be equally as impressed, I am sure, with Hokkaido and its cities as I am with Honshu. Well, maybe next time. If I make it back, I will certainly spend time in Northern Japan. Thanks for exhibiting these rare and unique photos of another time.

Thursday, December 16, 2010

MEMORIES OF CHINATOWN, YOKOHAMA 1961

ONE OF MY FLICKR FRIENDS...who lives inNorthern Japan led me to a website with some great history of the YOKOHAMA TRAMS:

www.japaneserailwaysociety.com/jrs/members/na ito/hmtrm/hm...

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MEMORIES OF CHINATOWN, YOKOHAMA 1961
Pen, ink and watercolor by Robert L. Huffstutter, memories of my time in Yokohama in early 60s.

Uploaded by roberthuffstutter on 9 Sep 10, 7.38AM PST.

REMEMBERING THE YOKOHAMA TROLLY CARS

REMEMBERING THE YOKOHAMA TROLLY CARS

Oh, Chinatown Night*

There was never a better ride, especially as it passed the old embassy area near the harbor. On Saturday nights, the old cars seemed to fly by the bund at 80 miles an hour to finish up the night.

If I recall, the trollies stopped running at midnight. This was the Yokohama of the 1960s.

But the night was only just beginning as the taxis poured into the narrow streets of Chinatown where the air was thick with sweet perfumes and powders. There was never a night in Chinatown where men were lonely or sad. The sound of both occidental and oriental music blended in the Yokohama night, each club with different decor and beautiful women in silk and denim, sometimes both.

The small soba shops between the clubs packed it in square cartons to go as the wee hours of the loving morning embraced the dawn. Footsteps and laughter drifted into the night, up one narrow alley after another narrow street, up stairs, and then the hush of another night, whispers not heard and maybe never remembered.

The trollies began rolling with the sunrise and by dawn, the neon faded and another night in Yokohama was history, memories shared by many for awhile, for some longer.

Robert L. Huffstutter

*There was a song most servicemen of all nations of that era remember quite well, "Oh, China Night."

Monday, December 13, 2010

LET'S GO TO CHINATOWN FOR A FEW DRINKS: 1960 YOKOHAMA

I HAVE ALMOST 2,000 OF THESE MATCH BOXES IF I CAN ONLY FIND THEM...
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LET'S GO TO CHINATOWN FOR A FEW DRINKS: 1960 YOKOHAMA
Thank you for including my matchbox map in your most unique gallery. If only I could use these maps to take me back to the joys of another era.

www.flickr.com/photos/frauhaus/galleries/72157625376486199

Uploaded by roberthuffstutter on 10 Aug 10, 4.06PM PST.

Saturday, December 4, 2010

ONE OF MY BEST PHOTOS OF JAPAN: PETRI CAMERA, 1962

ONE OF MY BEST PHOTOS OF JAPAN: PETRI CAMERA, 1962


SHORTLY AFTER ARRIVING IN JAPAN, I PURCHASED A PETRI at the Navy Exchange in Yokohama. It had the "new magic eye" or built-in light meter, a feature I thought would make a great difference in that I would not have to worry about Fstops and all the technical aspects. It was, in reality, a forerunner of the AUTOMATIC FEATURE. In other words, it was a point and shoot.

I shot many slides to begin with due to the high cost of color film. Hopefully, they are still in good shape, and I will be able to transfer them into photos and thus transfer them to my Flickr photostream. If there is a method for using a scanner to enlarge slides and get them into my system, I have not yet figured it out.

Through a contact in Flickr, I have been presented a Petri and am eagerly awaiting its arrival to see if it is still as fascinating as I recall. The best way to prove this, however, would be through board a JAL for Tokyo and then start shooting great photos. Maybe, sometime, I hope to return. It would be a second adventure of a lifetime.......Robert

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SAILING INTO FUJI


SAILING INTO FUJI
Originally uploaded by Okinawa Soba
SAILING INTO FUJI
Beautiful.

THIS IMAGE is one of several examples of a largely ignored facet of Old Japanese Photography -- a genre called "TAISHO ART" or "TAISHO PICTORIAL PHOTOGRAPHY". The pictorialism movement in Japan reached its peak during the reign of EMPEROR TAISHO (1912-26), thus the name attached to the genre. See the extended comments at the set link for PICTORIALISM IN OLD JAPAN just to the right of this picture.

Uploaded by Okinawa Soba on 28 Mar 08, 12.48PM PST.





SAILING INTO FUJI

STANDING IN AIR OVER MT. FUJI -- Japan's Sacred Mountain Subdued Under a Bridge

Your photograph is very special. It is one of my favorites. The colors you captured are magnificent; your framing is artful. To summarize, your photograph is a masterpiece, a work of art.

MT FUJI CANNOT BE DEFINED BY WORDS. This is my opinion and the opinion of writers throughout the world. Nevertheless, writers continue to describe its beauty in poetry, in long and elegant streams of prose and in brief but powerful text in geography books. When all is written and read, the sight of this sacred symbol in Japan, the sight of this most famous mountain throughout the world leaves the viewer almost breathless and bewildered; its beauty is beyond description in graphic text or letters; there is no poem powerful enough to create the emotion that sight of this mountain creates in one's heart and mind upon seeing Mt Fuji for the first time.

A MOST SERENE AND BEAUTIFUL PHOTOGRAPH...of my favorite mountain. Most people I talk with tell me it is impossible to see Mt Fuji from Yokohama. I tell them that in the early 1960s, I could see Mt Fuji almost any day from Atsugi, and quite frequently while in Yokohama, I could see the beautiful symbol of Japan.
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STANDING IN AIR OVER MT. FUJI -- Japan's Sacred Mountain Subdued Under a Bridge
What can be said here ? Odd and unusual. Arty in some kind of way, because of the non-standard arrangement of the objects in the view. Any photographer worth his salt in Old Japan would place Mt. Fuji OVER the bridge...and UNDER some overhanging branches of twisted pine, or branches of flowering Cherry Blossoms. But not this guy. He stuck the old volcano under a Bridge...with people in the sky, instead of Fuji's majestic peak. Good Show. It's nice to find old stuff like this...at the bottom of the box where nobody wanted it. However, I'm sure there are plenty of nuts on flickr (just like me) that will immediately like this shot. Ca.1900 albumen print.

Uploaded by Okinawa Soba on 1 Apr 08, 11.03PM PST.

Friday, December 3, 2010

A SLOW DAY ON BENTEN STREET, YOKOHAMA -- The #1 International Shopping District During the Late Meiji Era, and the "PHOTOGRAPHERS ROW" OF OLD JAPAN (With Some Notes on the BRINKLEY SETS)

THIS IS WHERE VAN GOGH WOULD HAVE STAYED PART OF THE TIME IF HE HAD VISITED JAPAN...
My gratitude to the members who have opted to make their work available for exhibition in the Flickr gallery feature.

When I started my galleries, I didn't know how addictive this could become; I didn't realize how many great photographers and artists are members of Flickr and offer hours and hours of entertainment viewing masterpiece after brilliant masterpiece.

I now have more than 500 galleries and have enjoyed creating almost each one. Thanks to all of you. Robert

Sunday, November 28, 2010

SOMETIMES IT HURTS TO HURT...

THE DECISIONS ONE MAKES IN YOUTH WILL FOREVER FOLLOW US THROUGH LIFE. This is a statement that is not Divine wisdom by any means, however it is a statement few of us really understand until we reach the age when we know that life will not go on forever, a feeling many of us had in our youth.

HOW MANY TIMES HAVE I THOUGHT ABOUT THE YOUNG WOMAN I BADE FAREWELL TO ON THAT DAY IN DEMEMBER OF 1963? HOW MANY DAYS HAS IT BEEN SINCE OUR HANDS LAST TOUCHED? HOW MANY DAYS HAVE PASSED? NO, I DO NOT WANT TO COUNT THEM--IT IS TOO PAINFUL. WAS IT FATE THAT ENDED OUR ROMANCE? I CANNOT SAY. I WILL WRITE A NOVEL SOMEDAY EXPRESSING MY FEELINGS ABOUT OUR ROMANCE, A STORY ABOUT A YOUTHFUL ROMANCE THAT WAS IDEAL. PERHAPS IT WAS MEANT ONLY TO LAST AS LONG AS IT DID--A SHORT TIME. WHATEVER THE CASE, THERE HAS NOT BEEN A DAY THAT HAS PASSED THAT I HAVE NOT SEEN HER FACE IN MY THOUGHTS, THOUGH I STOPPED WHISPERING HER NAME MANY YEARS AGO. SOMEDAY, I SAID, I WILL WRITE THE BOOK ABOUT YOUTHFUL ROMANCE BETWEEN EAST AND WEST. IT WILL BE A POSITIVE AND UPLIFTING ROMANCE WITH A LESSON: FOLLOW YOUR HEART AND YOU WILL NEVER HAVE REGRETS, YOU WILL NEVER HAVE TO WONDER IF YOUR DECISION WAS RIGHT OR WRONG.
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SOMETIMES IT HURTS TO HURT...
When sailors depart, they usually have someone they love to share the moment of departure. How many of these overseas romances continue is subject matter for novels. James Michener wrote one, "Sayonara" that says much about these departures.

Uploaded by roberthuffstutter on 19 Nov 10, 3.33PM PST.





Sometimes i am too honest

sometimes i think i open my heart too much

sometimes i cannot forget memories

i am who i am and what i am

i cannot pretend to forget what is heavy on my heart

this is the price i pay for being an artist

this is what happens to one as they grow older, memories of youth grow closer........

Saturday, November 27, 2010

OLD MOTOMACHI, YOKOHAMA 1962, pencil sketch by Robert L. Huffstutter

OLD MOTOMACHI, YOKOHAMA 1962, pencil sketch by Robert L. Huffstutter
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OLD MOTOMACHI, YOKOHAMA 1962, pencil sketch by Robert L. Huffstutter
Perhaps it is part of a photographic memory when it comes to subject matter, but after closing my eyes for a few minutes, this scene and many others comes to mind and affords me the view I needed to create a sketch of the Japan I remember so well. Motomachi was my favorite area of Japan for many reasons, some very personal, thus such a sketch was a joy for me and one I hope will be a reminder of the 60s for others who were celebrating their youth.

Uploaded by roberthuffstutter on 2 Nov 10, 5.15PM PST.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

JAPANESE VILLAGE IN KANAGAWA 1962: Watercolor by Robert L. Huffstutter

JAPANESE VILLAGE IN KANAGAWA 1962: Watercolor by Robert L. Huffstutter
JAPANESE VILLAGE IN KANAGAWA 1962: Watercolor by Robert L. Huffstutter. Mount Fuji in background. I often traveled the backroads of Kanagawa on a small motorcycle I had purchased for Yen 9,000. In 1962, there was 360 Yen per dollar. The little 90cc cost $25.00 U.S. It was a fun way to see the rural areas until I finall wore the little cycle out and began having to walk it up the steep hills. I remember a school bus of children looking at me peculiarly one afternoon as I slowly pushed the cycle up the hill. There was no outbursts or catcalls, just curious young people wondering why an American was out in the country (or in their country) pushing a little red motorcycle up a hill.

I soon met a friend and sold my old bike. Life became much more fun afterwards.

Saturday, November 13, 2010

CONSIDERING JAPANESE CITIZENSHIP? THINK AGAIN!

CONSIDERING JAPANESE CITIZENSHIP? THINK AGAIN!
HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT BECOMING A JAPANESE CITIZEN?

Think again, it is not exactly like the US immigration policy, no not at all. Do I blame them for wanting to keep Japan a homogenous nation, preserving their traditions, religions and holidays?

Why in the world would the Japanese want to be forced into changing their entire history and lifestyle simply to please a few organizations that have nothing to do but bitch about political correctness, fairness, worship and gender preferences?

Thankfully, there is one nation on earth that has the sense to preserve their nation as they want. By Robert L. Huffstutter

Uploaded by roberthuffstutter on 13 Nov 10, 6.04AM PST.

Vintage Japanese matchbox label, c1920s-1930s

This image has inspired a new gallery, MATCHBOX MASTERPIECES... with the following text:

Crackdog's collection of matchboxes is awe-inspiring. While many are for bars and other establishments, subjects that make the issue a memory of some youthful joys, it is the designs that remain in my mind that I really appreciate.

Most of these matchboxes, or all of them, were created by Japanese advertising artists in the 1920s through the late 1930s and could be advertising any number of establishments that were part of a very large Japanese Empire.

It is the intrique and mystery of this historic era that fascinates me. I believe it is an era that has been shelved, more or less, because of the Imperialist nature.

As an American, let me be the first to admit that the United States was one of the main players in the game of colonialism and imperialism. From the time the U.S. declared the "Manifest Destiny" to the time we forcefully annexed the kingdom of Hawaii, we have subtly become very large realtors in world properties.

Vintage Japanese matchbox label, c1920s-1930s
If anyone knows what the Japanese writing says, please let me know. I would love to find out.

Uploaded by crackdog on 12 Apr 10, 11.17PM PST.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

japanese matchbox label


japanese matchbox label
Originally uploaded by maraid
THERE IS A TRUTH HERE THAT IS SUBTLE--DEPENDING UPON ONE'S DEFINITION OF "ROMANCE." The design is simple and to the point. Perfect in every way, shape and form. Hopefully, the artist went on to make millions of Yen in advertising...RLH
japanese matchbox label

Uploaded by maraid on 15 Jun 08, 12.11PM PST.

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japanese matchbox label

Uploaded by maraid on 15 Jun 08, 12.11PM PST.

Saturday, November 6, 2010

星条旗新聞創刊50周年号P.S&S 50

星条旗新聞創刊50周年号P.S&S  50
星条旗新聞創刊50周年 1995年10月1日発行。
(タブロイド・サイズ) 1ドル。「付録」に前掲載の創刊号がついていた。
Publish it on the 50th anniversary Star&Stripes Banner newspaper foundation of a periodical October 1, 1995. (Tabloid size)1 dollar. The first issue of the previous publication stuck to "an appendix".

Uploaded by Chitose-Kim on 2 Nov 10, 7.38AM PDT.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Tokyo 1423


Tokyo 1423
Originally uploaded by tokyoform
When I returned home to the United States from Japan, one of my dreams was to return to Japan. That was almost 50 years ago. I am thinking it might not happen, but someday, if possible, I would still love to return to Japan and open up a small studio and paint, if only for a few months. Yes, to spend a few months painting and shooting photos in Japan was one of my dreams, and one that I have not given up for lost.
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Tokyo 1423

Uploaded by tokyoform on 4 Mar 09, 2.50AM PDT.

Sunday, October 31, 2010

odawara,kanagawa 2010

This is a scene that will forever intrique me because of my residence in Japan from 1961 until the eve of 1964. Japan was still building night and day, and there were many small streets and alleys like this one.

In a city as huge as Tokyo, there will always be small and personal alleys and streets. I am glad to see they still exist.I find them totally unique and perfect for my sketchwork. To me, they are a work of art with their utility poles and wires, their windows and signs, whatever one wants to leave outside. It all creates a balance of line and geometry that will forever remind me of my first few months discovering Tokyo and Yokohama.

It was like another world--it was another world and one that I loved very much.

It was not the lines only, it was also the kind people who helped me find my way around if they thought I was lost. Yes, many times I did get lost and felt like a stranger in a strange land, but there was never one night, no, not a moment when I felt fear and I will always be greatful and thankful to those who helped me find my way safely out of the darkness of a Tokyo at midnight.

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odawara,kanagawa 2010

Uploaded by izumi WONDERWALL on 30 Aug 10, 7.11AM PDT.

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Saturday, October 23, 2010

JAPAN TRAVEL POSTER FEB 2010

As fate would command, I found myself in Japan from August 1961 until the eve of 1964, stationed at Atsugi. Young and impressionable upon my arrival via Pan Am in that autumn of 1961, I was only 19 and totally fascinated with this great nation called Japan. My bus ride from the old Tokyo International Airport to the plains of Kanto in Kanagawa was like a course in National Geographic history. To say that I was excited would be an understatement; my excitement was at its height. Never in my life had I been so excited, so elated, so expectant of my new duty station. The yen was 360 per dollar at the time and being young and full of the curiosity young men have, I sensed that the exchange rate would be in my favor. As an artist, my supplies for painting would be most affordable; as a reader of Penguin history pocketbooks, I soon found that I could buy them at half the price I had paid for them in the USA. But what excited me was the sheer joy of being in a country that was full of beautiful music, aromatic scents of foods I was anxious to try, beautiful women with smiles were beautiful beyond words, buildings with roofs that made me anxious to sketch and photograph. Oh, the bus ride was just an introduction to my joyful tour in a most beautiful nation. PHOTO IMAGES OF JAPAN is an image that will lead the viewer to old photographs taken in the early 60s, sketches and paintings I made while in Japan and work I have done since.

You, the viewer, are cordially invited to enjoy my volume of works about the Japan of the 1960s; you are invited to leave me comments about the different scenes. I always appreciate feedback and suggestions. Know that I love Japan and the Japanese, a fact the viewer will surely realize upon beginning an pictorial journey through my Flickr photostream and my blog, BLOGABOUTJAPAN.

Thank you, Robert L. Huffstutter

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

The 29th of October, 2009

ONE OF MY FIRST FASCINATIONS UPON ARRIVING IN JAPAN IN 1961 WAS MT FUJI and the the overwhelming beauty of the country, but another feature of Japan that fascinated me was the many side streets or alleyways with their numerous signs in a language I could not read. It did not take me long to realize the fun the alleyways and sidestreets offered to one with an appetite for the wines of pleasure and the subjects for new and different paintings. It was with much sorrow that I had to move on to my next tour after spending 28 months in and around Yokohama and Tokyo. Now, after nearly 50 years, it is good to see that the sidestreets with their fascinating lights and signs still exist. To return to these streets of fond memories is one wish I hope to fulfill in the near future.

It is with much pleasure that I view the many photographs by TAKAHIRO YAMAMOTO. His photos published on Flickr are a joy for all who enjoy both artistic and graphic photography. He is a master photographer and one photographer whose work I admire with much respect.

The 29th of October, 2009

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

196/2010


196/2010
Originally uploaded by Takahiro Yamamoto
The building in the background is one that I sketched and painted long before the other buildings were constructed. I do not know what building it is or its name, but the scene projects how time changes waterfront scenes. Thanks to Takahiro Yamamoto for permission to include his photo in my blog.
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196/2010
196/2010
King, Jack, and Queen in Yokohama
See notes in the photo.

See my mobile photo collections here too.
I have set up another Flickr account!

Uploaded by Takahiro Yamamoto on 18 Jul 10, 1.50AM PDT.

271/2010


271/2010
Originally uploaded by Takahiro Yamamoto
The contrast between the giant skyscrapers of Tokyo and the narrow alleys of Shinjuku is part of the magic and charm I find so fascinating about Japan. I would much rather traverse these alleys with their inviting signs than ride the high-speed elevators to the sky-high elevators of the corporate world.
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Thanks to Takahiro Yamamoto for permission to include this image in my blog.

271/2010

Monday, October 11, 2010

HELLO TO MY FOLLOWERS OF BLOGABOUTJAPAN...

IT IS SO SELDOM THAT I GET A CHANCE TO TALK WITH YOU OR READ YOUR POSTS. I AM STILL TRYING TO FIGURE OUT HOW TO RECOVER COMMENTS, ETC FROM MY BLOG.LET ME ASK YOU A FAVOR.

PLEASE GO TO MY FLICKR ACCOUNT AND LEAVE ME A MESSAGE THAT YOU ARE A FOLLOWER. IF YOU HAVE A BLOG, LET ME KNOW. OR IF YOU HAVE A FLICKR ACCOUNT, LET ME KNOW SO I CAN FOLLOW YOUR PHOTOSTREAM. THANKS, ROBERT

SOBA REFILL ORDER: Detail of watercolor by R.L.Huffstutter

SOBA REFILL ORDER: Detail of watercolor by R.L.Huffstutter
This watercolor with pen and ink highlights is the subject matter of a photo taken in a Yokohama alley in Chinatown in 1961. It was not until I confered with several of my Japanese friends that I learned this was a soba bowl, not a rice bowl. One learns so much even after 50 years has passed since I snapped the photo with my new Petri. Below is the photo.

Uploaded by roberthuffstutter on 9 Oct 10, 10.37AM PDT.

JAL_First_Class_Suite_777-300ER

JAL_First_Class_Suite_777-300ER

THIS WOULD BE A WISH COME TRUE...to and from Japan, but I tend to feel I would want to stay for quite awhile--there is another lifetime of photography and art waiting for me.

Saturday, October 9, 2010

A SLOW DAY ON BENTEN STREET, YOKOHAMA -- The #1 International Shopping District During the Late Meiji Era, and the "PHOTOGRAPHERS ROW" OF OLD JAPAN (With Some Notes on the BRINKLEY SETS)

EXTRA EXTRA, READ ALL ABOUT IT, MORE GREAT NEWS FROM OLD YOKOHAMA BY OKINAWA SOBA....

A SLOW DAY ON BENTEN STREET, YOKOHAMA -- The #1 International Shopping District During the Late Meiji Era, and the "PHOTOGRAPHERS ROW" OF OLD JAPAN (With Some Notes on the BRINKLEY SETS)
Ca.1895-1900 This view looks Southeast down Benten Street, called in Japanese, "Benten Dori" The clock tower on the left was built in 1894.

This shop-lined avenue is where almost all albumen souvenir photographs of Japan were made during the 19th Century. In fact, it is here on this street in 1896 that the effort was organized to produce what started out as an order for over 180,000 albumen prints to be tipped into the multi-volume sets of Brinkley's 1897 JAPAN - DESCRIBED AND ILLUSTRATED BY THE JAPANESE. However, some sources have said this order was eventually increased to 1,000,000 hand-colored prints --- all for the same publisher !

We now know that Yokohama photographer KOZABURO TAMAMURA whose studio was located at No.2 Benten Street was the one charged with coming up with this mountain of hand finished photographs to be pasted into the volumes of these silk-covered sets, and he called upon his Japanese photographer friends and acquaintances to bail him out !

The unbelievable initial order for for 180,000 photographs was so astounding, it made news in the Japanese papers of the day.

But, that was only the beginning.

Some sources have said this order was eventually increased to 1,000,000 hand-colored prints --- all for the same publisher ! Although I have not been able to track the "million" number down to a primary source, I have made some basic calculations based on Bethel's list of editions of this set (and some not on her list), and came up with way more than double the first installment of 180,000 prints --- actually well over 400,000 hand-made albumen photos (just for starters) !

There were also numerous editions that have no press-run figures, and the published also issued ART FOLIO sets that were filled with nothing but loose, mounted prints.

Although an accurate final figure might be impossible to obtain, the numbers so far certainly indicate the incredible amount of early Japanese photographs that came out of Yokohama during the 19th century.

The image above was photographed by KOZABURO TAMAMURA --- the same guy who had to come up with those 500,000 to 1,000,000 photos! Read all about this amazing production here :

www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/3340015545/

Both TAMAMURA and T. ENAMI had studios at the far end of this street. The presence of many other photo studios along this strip of expensive real estate allowed it to also lay claim to being the "Photographers Row" of Old Japan. Even the famous KIMBEI opened his first studio here.

On busy days, it was packed with shoppers from all over the world --- sometimes to the point of 'rickshaw traffic jams. Even more than the Ginza in Tokyo, this street was the international shopping mecca for all who came to Japan. Arts, crafts, and "curios" galore were all here.

It was an especially colorful place to be during celebrations and festivals. However, Tamaura chose a quieter day to get his shot when all of those said decorations and crowds of people were not in the way.


Here are some other BENTEN STREET images on my stream, with additional caption commentary : www.flickr.com/search/?w=24443965@N08&q=BTSYOKO&m...

I've written more about TAMAMURA and T. ENAMI's photographic cooperation and friendship at www.t-enami.org/services

Uploaded by Okinawa Soba on 29 Mar 08, 4.40PM PDT.

Saturday, October 2, 2010

TRUE IMPRESSIONISM

This is a scene that exists not only in my mind, but on a few slides I took while I was stationed in Japan in the early 60s. I have yet to find the slides, but I have not searched too extensively. Some scenes are best left alone, at least until we feel we might not get another look at them again. Until then, I shall continue to paint this corner in Yokohama time and again, each time with a bit more reality from memories that continually awaken as I grow older. Strange that as one grows older, those events that once seemed so far away seem to come closer. Why is this so? Is there some type of time loop that we are on that is like a round-trip ticket that takes us back as we near the end of our journey? If there is a viewer or reader who shares this experience, please feel invited to share with comments. I would like to hear other opinions and theories.

Saturday, September 25, 2010

toyopet 1963 crown

One of the many versions of the Toyota and or Toyopet that I saw on a daily basis while stationed in Japan. This model show signs of US influence in the rise of the rear fins. There is an interesting history attached to Toyota as there is to almost all things Japanese. I will reference the URL site for this photo in my next post.

toyopet 1963 crown

Uploaded by roberthuffstutter on 25 Sep 10, 3.45AM PDT.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

japanese matchbox label


japanese matchbox label
Originally uploaded by maraid
Most likely pre-war. I would imagine those who owned this establishment had no idea of the military leadership that would lead their nation to the state of tragedy it met. It is another example of how selfish men hungry for power can lead a nation into turmoil and tragedy.
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japanese matchbox label

Uploaded by maraid on 6 May 08, 2.10PM PDT.

Fishing Boats in Yokahama Harbor

Fishing Boats in Yokahama Harbor
Photographs by Cliff McCarthy.

Over 60 years have passed since these images were taken by Cliff McCarthy in and around Tokyo. At the time, McCarthy was an Air Force Sgt. As a way of passing time before his return to the United States, he borrowed a Speed Graphic camera from his 36th Photo Reconnaissance Squadron and explored his surroundings. In this collection you will find images of contrast and beauty within a society in transition.

“When you meet face-to-face, it’s an entirely different thing than the abstractness of war”, McCarthy said. “The humanity that we all possess emerges immediately. The act of photographing them was one of friendship.”

The photographs can be found as part of the permanent collection at Chubu University in Kasugai, Japan, Ohio University’s sister university.

Uploaded by Ohio University Libraries on 4 Jun 10, 12.17PM PDT.

Hidagaya, 日高屋, Hiyoshi

Hidagaya, 日高屋, Hiyoshi
My favorite restaurant in Tokyo

Uploaded by Arutemu on 9 Sep 10, 11.01AM PDT.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

MARUNOUCHI HOTEL & IMPERIAL HOTEL

MARUNOUCHI HOTEL & IMPERIAL HOTEL
FOR THE ENLARGED VIEW:
www.flickr.com/photos/huffstutterrobertl/4269299462/sizes/l/

Uploaded by roberthuffstutter on 12 Jan 10, 7.46AM PDT.

Monday, August 30, 2010

Oiwake (Tea House) at Nakasendo

Oiwake (Tea House) at Nakasendo
Oiwake (Tea House) at Nakasendo
Digital ID: 110082. Kusakabe, Kimbei -- Photographer. 188-?-189-?

Notes: Number in Negative, 1117

Source: Japan. / Kimbei Kusakabe. (more info)

Repository: The New York Public Library. Photography Collection, Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs.

See more information about this image and others at NYPL Digital Gallery.
Persistent URL: digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/id?110082

Rights Info: No known copyright restrictions; may be subject to third party rights (for more information, click here)

Uploaded by New York Public Library on 15 Dec 08, 6.06AM PDT.