The feature of photography which I love the most is its `Recording function'.
The camera lens always records more than what it actually sees,
furthermore, it sometimes captures more than what we could imagine.

Those photographies were all taken in former red-light district, called　Yoshiwara in Nihonnzutsumi , located East part of Tokyo Japan.
In Edo era, there were Japanese prostitutes called `Yujo`. They were also well
known as fashion leaders. Especially, their high fashion such as clothing and
hair style always attracted people very much.
In addition, the love affaires which were taking place in Yoshiwara would provide
lots ideas and influences to Japanese entertainment such as Kabuki. At that
time, Yoshiwara were known for being at the forefront of Japanese cultures.
Yoshiwara district was established in Edo era. There have been many parlors for
many years until lately, however, to open the new business has been strictly
controlled by the law. As a consequence, the number of the parlors will
decrease year after year.
The corruptions of the recent buildings are so severe lately. This is because
they been there over 30 to 40 years. When I saw the rooms and found the classy
items which former people used, I found the distinctive beauty of Edo style.

I hope the every detail of those pictures will provide some contributions to
Japan history studies after many years.

Manabu Numata is a photographer based in Tokyo, Japan.
To view more of Manabu Numata's work, please visit his website.
Column of CNN Local Insights