YUKI (YUKHINX) (Messenger)
Yuki: After graduating from Musashino Art University, Yuki has achieved top rankings in messenger races around the world and completed a 3,000km European journey. She now incorporates what she has learned into her artwork.
A free 24-hour bicycle rest spot where you can relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city.
As you ride your bike, you'll see a variety of different towns and natural scenery appear before your eyes, constantly changing every day, allowing you to experience the scenery constantly changing from the area you normally live in. It's important to move around and immerse yourself in different scenery to keep your blood flowing and your thoughts flowing.
Unlike cars, bicycles have no roof or walls to protect you, so your body is exposed, and the faster you ride in Tokyo's car-oriented society, the more you have to use your five senses to the fullest, instantly detecting your surroundings and protecting yourself from danger or causing harm. Continuing to use your body in this way brings about a primitive state of sensation that liberates you, even while you are in the midst of this modern society.
Just when you're enjoying a different perspective than usual, once you've settled into the enclosed space surrounded by concrete, you feel reluctant to go outside again, and the moment you pay 100 yen to park your bike, you're pulled back into the capitalist world.
If I were to take a moment to put the brakes on and take a breather, I would be attracted to places that have space on their side, that are free of restrictions, and that some people might consider wasteful, rather than places that are overly marketed and designed to feel efficient and cramped.
If you get as far away as possible from the concept of a monetary economy and the hustle and bustle of the city, take the wheel yourself without being told what to do by anyone, and look at the city from a different perspective than usual, you will see a tranquil landscape that is disguised in the city.
Solamnade Haneda Green Space
From the observation terrace at the end of the cycling road, you can see the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line and the opposite shore, and it's an impressive spot as planes take off and land right in front of you. It's also nice to park your bike and take a stroll along the 2km walking path surrounded by the river and sky, observing wild birds and driftwood.
Address: 2-8-1 Haneda Airport, Ota Ward | map
Aoyama Cemetery Central Intersection
The intersection in the middle of Aoyama Cemetery has a wide sidewalk, toilets and vending machines, and a quiet atmosphere that makes you forget that Roppongi and Aoyama Street are nearby. Some messengers affectionately call this place "Bochiman" and use it as a resting spot. In spring, the rows of cherry blossom trees are in full bloom.
Address: Near Minami-Aoyama 2-32, Minato-ku | map
Koami Shrine
The wooden shrine building survived the air raids of World War II and remains to this day, and it is said that all soldiers who received talismans from the shrine survived, leading to it being called the god of good fortune and protection from evil. There is also an anecdote about how after volunteers from a certain messenger company received an exorcism there, they no longer had their bicycles stolen or involved in accidents.
Address: 16-23 Koamicho, Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku | map
Tsukuda 1-chome
Located about 2km from Ginza, Tsukudajima retains the atmosphere of a fishing town from the Edo period, offering a sense of the calm and peaceful time that must have flowed by in the past, creating an atmosphere that allows you to take a breather. It's a place where you can relax and enjoy a visit to a long-established tsukudani (simmered food) shop or Sumiyoshi Shrine, or a snack purchased at a candy store on a bench along the Sumida River.
Address: Tsukuda 1, Chuo Ward | map
Dream Bridge
With a total length of 360m and a maximum width of approximately 60m, this is the widest pedestrian bridge in Japan. It has also been used as the finish point for group rides. It is far from the station, has few people and vehicles are prohibited, so it is very quiet. There are buildings and a Ferris wheel nearby, and the bridge is lit up at night, so it is recommended for its good visibility.
Address: Near Ariake 3-1, Koto-ku | map
Wakasu Seaside Park
There is a 6km cycling course, a campground, a free fishing spot, and bicycles are available for rent during the day. Cars are prohibited, so you can relax by riding your bike or sunbathing on the grass. The scenery is spectacular, with the Tokyo Gate Bridge in sight as you cycle.
Address: 3-1-2 Wakasu, Koto-ku | map
