Al Smith, Sr. (1916-2008) was a photographer and prolific chronicler of life in Seattle's Central Area during the mid- to late-20th century, capturing life in the city’s Black African American community, the Central Area neighborhood, and the local jazz scene.

Al Smith left O'Dea High School in 1935 and joined the Merchant Marine Union, working as a steward on passenger ships. Al cruised the Pacific Ocean, visiting Japan, China, the Philippines, Malaysia, and other areas. Here, Al stands with a friend on a busy city street somewhere in Japan on a stopover.

This photo is definitely somewhere in Japan. The women to the right of Al and his friend are wearing traditional Japanese clothing and the writing on the signs is in Japanese. I asked Emi if she could tell what city they are in based on the writing, but she said there were no place names mentioned. We can say with certainty that it is in Japan, though. - ATL