Author Misyu Sakodoh's chosen camera gear includes the Canon EOS80D (body) with an 18-135mm lens. However, for this particular hobby, camera quality doesn't matter—whether it's a professional camera or a smartphone, all you need is a "camera" and "love" to enjoy it!
Do you remember the commercial "I like giraffes, but I like elephants more"?
If you do, we're from the same generation.
While I love real animals, especially giraffes, my true passion lies with cranes—specifically, those standing tall by the sea.
A 20-Year-Long Crush: My Unfaltering Love for Cranes
The "giraffes" I'm referring to are actually gantry cranes—large machines used in ports to load and unload containers from ships to land and vice versa.
My fascination with them predates my love for Ferris wheels. It's truly a first love.
Why Do I Love Them? Three Reasons
- The Contrast of Inorganic Objects in Nature: Just like Ferris wheels, I am drawn to inorganic objects standing amidst nature. Their solitary presence captivates me.
- Their Size: Depending on the type, they can be 50-90 meters tall. Even from a distance, they stand out, and up close, their sheer size overwhelms me.
- Their Structure: The orderly arrangement and sturdy framework of the iron structures. The red and white coloring is meant to make them visible at night, but for me, this "festive" coloring overflows with affection.
Meeting the Cranes: Overwhelmed with Excitement
The day I went to see the cranes up close.
Seeing them, I couldn't help but run toward them.
The path was a straight line, and my excitement was uncontrollable. I even strained a muscle in my thigh, but nothing could stop me.
Closer! Faster!
I dashed across a crosswalk with a blinking green light, catching glimpses of the cranes standing proudly.
I arrived at Aomi South Pier Park.
Adjacent to the park is the Aomi Container Terminal, with the Ohi Container Terminal across the way. With trembling hands, I snapped away with my camera. This was my first time seeing them so close in broad daylight.
Not just the nearest crane, but multiple cranes in the distance—so close! Too much! I love them! Close and overwhelmingly large. I love them so much.
The park doesn't have any playground equipment.
There’s only a fence separating it from the sea, but getting right up to the fence brings you within about 30 meters of the cranes. It's like seeing your favorite performer from the front row. My heart was racing.
Best Photos Depend on Time and Weather
These photos were taken on February 24, 2024. The weather was clear from morning to evening.
Between 4:00 PM and 4:30 PM, the western sky was tinged with the setting sun's orange glow, while the eastern sky retained its last hint of blue. It offered two distinct atmospheres for shooting.
The cranes were in operation during the shoot, and there were other photographers around—some focused on the ships, others on the cranes. Everyone seemed to be enjoying their photography in their own way.
Aomi South Pier Park: A Perfect Shooting Spot
Take the Yurikamome Line and get off at Telecom Center Station. From the platform, you can already see numerous cranes!
Exit the station and head to the ground level. There are elevators and escalators, making it accessible for the elderly and strollers—true hospitality!
It's about a 5-minute walk from the station (or 3 minutes if you run).
As the weather warms up, enjoy the sea and let your heart be captivated by the grandeur of the cranes.
