The Crows of Tokyo are bigger than you expect. There’s a certain intelligence in their eyes. The Japanese know this too—crows are tricksters, messengers, sometimes omens. In folktales they guide and deceive, depending on how you meet them. I’ve watched them swoop onto my balcony and steal wire hangers because Tokyo Crows don’t build ordinary nests. They are as into architectural design as much as the next guy here.
I respect them. I’ve always respected them. They remember you, so you better treat them well. Sometimes it’s a matter of walking past them and getting the biggest “CAW,” or just a nod of “We meet again.”
They’re not afraid of people. This guy was in Meidai-Mae as I walked to school. I asked him if it was ok to take a photo, he said “caw.” And then he turned his head to get a better view of me. I assume to place me in his memory.
I really, really love Tokyo Crows.
October 2025
Tokyo, Japan 🇯🇵
