With my daughter, we approached the crowd further down the street.

At various shops along both sides of the street, various items and services could be found. Today was the annual 100 yen (one dollar) festival in Naruto.

Not all products were 100 yen, as some were 200 or even 300 yen, but the concept was like the ubiquitous Dollar Stores (100 Yen Stores) in that many goods were just 100 yen.

This is in the heart of my city, Naruto. Though it is becoming increasingly rare, I still believe that streets like this one are important in cities. This street has covers over the sidewalks on both sides. That cover provides protection from the elements, light at night (and early morning) and music to soothe the ears and soul.I think there used to be more and more of these all over Japan, but over time the dreaded shopping malls have killed them off. It’s too bad. They are still useful.

This street has banks (yes, plural), restaurants, a doctor, a fruit/vegetable shop, and various other shops. In its heyday, I believe the second storey of many of the buildings also housed shops, but not anymore.

Today the festival brought more than the usual number of visitors, and the street was blocked to vehicular traffic.

Down the centre of the street the annual office chair race took place.

Many teams took place in the race, each having a unique outfit or decoration. To be safe, all competitors wore safety helmets to protect their heads.

My daughter and I took in the sights, bought a few items and returned home. Upon our return, my wife and older daughter then went to the festival. Later still my daughter re-visited the festival.

Mostly, we bought a variety of foodstuffs, but the festival also provided an opportunity to bump into friends and acquaintances. All in all we had a good time.