Personal story, I first encountered “The Strangers” 25 years ago at the last leg of a RTW trip. Tokyo was the last stop before returning to Australia. When I was back in Tokyo this year, I knew my Sunday would be trying to see if I could find them in the same place 25 years later. It took some searching but eventually I located them, performing on the exact same sport in Yoyogi Park next to Harajuku. It was an amazing feeling. “The Strangers” of Harajuku are a long-standing Japanese rockabilly dance group famous for their 1950s-style fashion and energetic performances in Yoyogi Park. They are considered an iconic part of Tokyo’s subculture, gathering every Sunday afternoon to dance to rock ‘n’ roll music.
- Who they are: A rockabilly dance crew in Tokyo that has been performing for over 35 years. They are known for their distinctive 1950s attire, including greased-back hair, leather and denim jackets with embroidered logos, and pointy shoes.
- Where they perform: The group meets at the clock tower in Yoyogi Park every Sunday afternoon, usually starting around 1:00 PM or 2:00 PM, weather permitting.
- What they do: They perform lively rock ‘n’ roll dances, often to classic rockabilly tunes, showcasing their passion for the 1950s lifestyle.
- Their significance: They are seen as icons of Harajuku and represent an enduring subculture that is more than just a costume, but a dedicated lifestyle.
EDITED BY BEN ANDERSON