HYPER LOCAL NAGOYA
In this interview series “My Hyperlocal memory“, we explore the memories and experiences of individuals and their connection to the places they call home. Today, Mr. Takahashi walks us through Nakae Daini Park in Minami ward, Nagoya and along the hyper-local route of Tenpaku River, reminiscing about his youth of the neighbourhood.
*Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are solely our own!
This is the place where I first discovered Yutaka Ozaki.
– So, Mr.Takahashi, can you tell us about this place we’re in right now?
Ah, this is my hometown. We’re walking around Nakae Park in Minami ward, even though it’s drizzling a bit.
– This staircase has a hyper-local feel that only locals know!
Yeah, you won’t see many non-locals around here. It’s just a small park, even by our standards. But seeing these stairs leading to Tenpaku River through Nakae Park brings back so many memories.
– That’s great! What do you remember about this place?
Well, I used to come here often to go fishing when I was in junior high school. I never caught anything though, haha!
– That’s funny! Do you remember anything else about this place?
Yes, actually, this is where I first learned about Yutaka Ozaki.
– Who is Yutaka Ozaki? I know him but maybe the reader doesn’t know him.
He is a Japanese youth rock icon of the 80s. He died in early 90s but remains as a respected figure in Japanese music history!
– Thanks! How did you get to know his music?
One of my fishing friends told me about him. It was around the time Ozaki’s best album came out, and I listened to it a lot.
– That must have been a shock for you.
It was. I fell in love with his music and couldn’t stop listening to it.
– So this place holds a special place in your heart?
Absolutely. It’s hard to talk about my junior high school days without mentioning Ozaki.
– This place really changed your life in a way.
Yes, it did. But it’s not just about Ozaki. This place also holds memories of the 2000 Tokai heavy rain.
– Oh, I see. What happened?
The damage in this area was pretty severe. I remember Nonami on the opposite bank was completely flooded. I came to see how the river was at that time, but the water was really close to the bank. It made me realize that natural disasters can happen in real life.
– That must have been scary.
It was. But coming back to my hometown always brings back a flood of memories. There are so many scenes that come back to life after decades.
– That’s so true. Is there anything else that you remember from this place?
Yes, actually, when I was in my third year of high school, I used to look at the Nagoya driving school on the opposite bank from here and dream of getting my driver’s license. I still remember the feeling I had back then.
– That’s amazing. Do you think the scenery has changed since then?
Not really, but my eyes definitely see a different world from that time.
– Yes, it is. But no matter how much time passes, Ozaki’s music always stays with me.
Recently, I’ve been addicted to Ozaki’s song “Lost 1/2”, and the lyrics, “Rather than searching forever for things that can’t be found, it’s more important to keep each one warm while understanding it.” I’m here.
– You really are a fan!
Haha, yes, I am. Especially his song “Lost 1/2”. The lyrics really speak to me.
– That’s great to hear. Thank you for taking us on this journey through your hometown and memories.
It was my pleasure. Thank you for joining me!
