Neon Rear (Japan, Tokyo)

The night is dense. Yet Tokyo remains hushed . No horns, few voices. A megalopolis on standby , contained by the restraint of its inhabitants and a form of almost ceremonial urbanity . Japanese taxis are waiting: impeccable black sedans , drivers in white gloves, automatic doors, engines ready but silent.

In Japan, taxi drivers are often employed by seniors—active retirees who have retrained, known for their extreme politeness and careful driving. The vehicles are often Toyota Crown Comforts , models that have remained virtually unchanged since the 1990s, with a retro style that has become a cult classic. Equipped with GPS , embroidered curtains , and sometimes even heated rear seats, these taxis embody discreet luxury .

Illuminated ceiling lights signal their availability, while green license plates identify commercial vehicles. At night, the lights and neon signs create a graphic, almost cinematic silhouette—as if Tokyo were staging itself, without raising its voice.