Tokyo landmarks: The “Giant Golden Poop” in Asakusa

I love that this is one of those classic Japan moments where something is supposed to be very profound and artistic, but an entire nation has quietly agreed on a completely different interpretation.

Walking through Asakusa, it is impossible to miss the giant golden object perched on top of the black building across the Sumida River. Officially, it is called the "Flamme d'Or" or Golden Flame, and it was designed by French designer Philippe Starck as part of the Asahi Beer headquarters complex. The flame is meant to represent the burning heart of Asahi's brewing spirit.

Which is a lovely idea.

Unfortunately, to many people, including me, it looks much less like a blazing flame and much more like something a very large golden dog may have left behind.

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