‘Tokyo Sanpo’, Exploring Tokyo by Bike and by Comic

While living in Tokyo for six months, Florent Chavouet began to sketch his modest everyday life. And so it was that Tokyo Sanpo was born. The author and illustrator wished to take his readers with him on his bike to show them a new image of Tokyo, one that is more childish and humorous than the usual.

Florent Chavouet’s meticulous lines reveal a Tokyo that is moving and colourful. The charm of Tokyo Sanpo comes from Chavouet’s particular attention given to detail, as he observes things the reader might not initially expect to see.

Chavouet uses humour to share his vision of Tokyo life. He goes through the different areas of the city, illustrating anecdotes but not seeking to produce a guide to the city, although he does manage to slip in a few good visitor spots.

Engaging, funny and captivating, Tokyo Sanpo is not to be missed by lovers of Japan, and especially Tokyo.