Coin-Laundry & Coin Shower near the Docks
Location: Shimoda, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 16:26 on June 6, 2023
Located directly across from Shimoda Port's docks, this coin laundry immediately caught my attention. What struck me most was how time had weathered its east-facing storefront and signage. The relentless exposure to the morning and afternoon sun had noticeably faded its colors.
However, it wasn't just the sun that had taken its toll over the years. The corrosive effects of airborne saltwater had also left their imprint, resulting in visible rust on certain parts of the shop.
Many of the smaller fishing boats moored to the docks are chartered for recreational fishing, accommodating up to three guests for a day of angling. Depending on the season and desired catch, rates for these charters range from ¥20,000 to ¥40,000 per day.
After spending a day fishing under the scorching sun, this coin laundry must be a welcome relief for fishermen before heading back home to Tokyo or their resort hotel. Without the coin laundry, I can only imagine the smell of opening your laundry bag of “fishing clothes” after returning home from a day of being exposed to ocean waves and the scent of the day’s catch.
Moreover, the shop offers heated showers, allowing fishermen to clean up and feel refreshed after angling under the strong sun and being soaked in sea spray. The convenience of this shop must surely be a welcome respite after a fun day at sea.
Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 1600 for 1/250 sec. at ƒ/2.0
Classic Negative film simulation