As I descended to basement degree, the scent of stagnant, humid air combined with exhaust fumes started to fill the elevator.
For a cut up second, I believed the elevator had gone via a portal straight to Malaysia, however the lack of two-stepping and rev battles advised me that I used to be certainly nonetheless in Japan
The doorways open to Takashi-san’s secret Tokyo underground meet – timed to coincide with the Tokyo Auto Salon – and a parking storage filled with individuals and vehicles.
The location was solely made identified the morning of the meet, and even then the main points have been despatched privately with express directions on what to do, the place to park, and the way not to get the eye of the police stationed proper subsequent door to the venue.
Sharing or discussing the meet on SNS was additionally strictly forbidden.
Watching Takashi-san operating forwards and backwards nervously led me to assume issues might need gotten a bit out of hand.
“The parking workers are complaining that there are too many individuals, and are asking us to depart now,” he mentioned, confirming my suspicions.
I instantly felt sorry for Takashi-san, and was barely irritated, as clearly phrase had unfold far past the invited.
Why do individuals need to damage a superb factor? Can’t individuals comply with easy directions?
The vibe of the venue is ideal for underground meets and I’m certain plenty of effort and time went into securing the spot, so hopefully it hasn’t been ruined for future utilization.
On The Different Hand…
Maybe I’m taking a look at every little thing the mistaken method, although? It’s attainable that I’m being overly important in regards to the scenario and want to take a look at issues from a unique perspective.
As a result of, regardless of there being much more individuals than Takashi-san had anticipated to show up, everybody who was there was extremely well mannered, pleasant, and most significantly, respectful.
And you may’t blame anybody for desirous to attend.
Everybody had an unbelievable time, together with Takashi-san, who was so joyful that folks may take pleasure in themselves at his secret/not-so-secret occasion.
The extra I give it some thought, maybe placing that steadiness between having enjoyable and never crossing that line of being disrespectful is vital.
If we are able to preserve this steadiness alive and effectively into the longer term, automotive tradition can proceed to be an incredible expertise to be personally concerned in and better of all – share with others.
I wasn’t the one Speedhunter at this meet; Toby was additionally current and has lined up a extra detailed take a look at a number of vehicles that caught his eye, so preserve a glance out for that story.
Mina otsukaresama desu!
Ron Celestine
Instagram: celestinephotography