Research | PolyU Design’s Brian Kwok Captures Tokyo’s Soul Through 900 Signboards in New Publication

The best way to understand a city is to walk its streets and seek meaning in the everyday elements that people often overlook.

Inspired by Wajiro Kon’s “Modernology” (考現學) approach—systematically observing, recording, and analysing the small things in modern urban life to grasp social change— Prof. Brian Kwok, Associate Professor of PolyU Design carried out extensive fieldwork in Tokyo. He documented over 900 signboards across ten iconic districts and compiled the findings into his new book: “Tokyo Signboards and Visual Culture” 《東京招牌與視覺文化》.

This book takes readers on a captivating visual journey, revealing Tokyo’s diverse aesthetic styles through vibrant, eclectic signboards—from the post-war market chaos of Ueno’s Ameya Yokochō to Shimokitazawa’s subcultural creativity, Shinjuku’s nostalgic lantern-lit alleys, and Ginza’s high-fashion sophistication. These signs are living artifacts that encode the city’s history, soul, and evolving character.

A valuable resource for designers, urbanists, and curious travellers, the book inspires us to “read” the city—turning a casual stroll into a profound discovery, where every signboard tells the story of an ever-changing metropolis. Learn more>>

Brian’s neon sign project has been recently featured in the RTHK programme 《夜．遊香港 ——第三晚 - 霓虹夜色》, bringing the importance of neon sign culture preservation to the public. Watch now>>