From a Flea Market to a Boulevard of Gold

Returning to Yokohama this week for a visit to the Odori Koen Flea Market and then a walk amongst the golden yellow ginkgo nut trees.

We pass by some of the most interesting people on our way to the Flea Market.

Some people look more interesting than others.

We have arrived at the Odori Koen (Odori Park) Flea Market.

Amongst all this junk fascinating stuff  there may be something of great value being sold for only 100 yen. Once my wife bought a tea cup worth 10,000 yen for only 100 yen.

There are shoppers like her that dive into the goods looking for a bargin, and there are observers with a camera like me that stand on the edges.

Watches, rings and bracelets; oh my!

This charming lady was selling her own hand made jewelry.

There is no age limit for shopping at the flea market.

From grand fathers to grand children, everyone gathers here to see what's for sale.

I suspect that some people are just passing through the park to get to the other side.

It's good to shop with a bit of a poker face. Don't want to tip your hand when you find that diamond in the ruff.

Shopping at a flea market is the ultimate cheap date.

A fashion trail blazer is looking for an upgrade to his wardrobe here at the flea market!

After departing Odori Koen we pass through Yokohama park on our way to Nihon Odori where we'll be viewing the Ginkgo nut trees.

We have arrived at the Boulevard of gold! Officially named Nihon Odori.

The nice wide sidewalks are covered in gold leaf.

Purple hair, gold trees, the ultimate LA Lakers tribute.

It's like walking in a wonderland.

Time to leave Nihon Odori and head over to Yamashita Dori.

Yamashita Dori is the street that runs parallel to Yamashita park.

I should come back here at night when the gas lights illuminate the trees.

The Yokohama Marine Tower framed in gold.

Kids running to the park.

An elevated view of Yamashita Dori.

I'm not the only guy with a camera out here.

Solid gold from one end of the street to the other.

Another cheap date idea. "come on honey, lets go walk along Yamashita Dori, it'll be so romantic and cheap" 

The New Grand Hotel on the other side of the street.

Close up of a gas light.

It's only a short jog from Yamashita Park to the Motomachi shopping street.

When things go on sale the shoppers come running.

Out of Motomachi and into China Town.

A couple of girls sharing a bowl of fresh cut mangoes on ice cream. Very delicious!

As the sun goes down and the temperature starts to drop it's time to go home for the day.

Thanks for stopping by!
Mike