A functionalist, utilitarian architecture and general aesthetic pervades- despite such a rich tradition of design and possession of the beautiful. In the parks we are reminded occasionally by the flat rectangular and sparse arrangement of forms.

Nevertheless - utilitarian barriers for nothing interrupt and remind us of this pointless and harrowing - stifling obedience. Still- the men wave fans to cool themselves - decorated, yet mass-produced in this pleasing pared-down style. Cherry trees abound, forgiving, repenting the city and all its ugliness - its functionalism that ignores the human. Ignores life and purposefully stifles it - breeding conformity. Atleast the sky is still golden.

Japan needs to get things done, get things done fast and efficiently. Quickly and at minimum cost; because we've got so much more to do - dam rivers, build elevated highways, more railways, build more airports, reclaim the sea - a constant busi-ness which is, in itself, admirable. The results: disappointing, requiring us to move to the next project, or smoke a cigarette and forget.