Nagoya City has reason to celebrate as the Omo Tenashi Bushotai, its local tourism promotion team, has officially set the record for the most days of activity as a castle lord group, achieving an impressive total of 5,234 days. This announcement was made on the 7th of the month when team members, dressed as the celebrated samurai figures Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu, paid a courtesy visit to Mayor Ichiro Hirosawa.
The Omo Tenashi Bushotai, formed back in November 2009 to coincide with Nagoya's 400th anniversary, has grown from its inception to include ten members today. Their extensive list of activities not only includes regional events but also performances and song events inspired by the local history of the Sengoku period, which enhances tourism and community spirit.
During their visit, the team emphasized their determination to help promote Nagoya as the world’s premier tourist destination. "We would like to strive to make Nagoya the world’s number one tourist city," exclaimed one of the team members, demonstrating their collective commitment to the cause.
Mayor Hirosawa expressed his gratitude for the group's long-standing service, stating, "I appreciate your long service. With the reconstructive work planned for Nagoya Castle, please continue to support its revival." The mayor’s remarks underline the significance of the Omo Tenashi Bushotai’s contributions as the city prepares for major restorations of its iconic landmarks.
Notably, the record achievement received recognition from the Japan Record Certification Association, attesting to the Bushotai's dedication and steadfastness over the years. The day was marked not just by the celebration of the record but by thoughtful discussions on Nagoya’s future as well.
Mayor Hirosawa candidly questioned the three historical figures portrayed by the team, asking, "Why didn’t any of you choose to make Nagoya the capital?" To which Oda Nobunaga humorously replied, "We have realized the charm of Nagoya late but are on our way to lead it to become the world’s leading tourist city." This interaction highlights not only the cultural enrichment provided by the Bushotai but also the enduring appeal of historical narratives within the region.
With the planned restoration of Nagoya Castle, which involves extensive wooden reconstruction, the Omo Tenashi Bushotai's role is more important than ever. Their efforts to draw attention to such cultural assets symbolize the resilience and pride of Nagoya's heritage.
Through dedication and creativity, the Omo Tenashi Bushotai continues to capture the hearts of locals and tourists alike, ensuring the historical stories of Nagoya endure. The team's longevity and commitment to their mission exemplify the spirit of community involvement necessary for cultural preservation.
The story of the Omo Tenashi Bushotai is not just about records; it is about the unyielding commitment to promoting local history, culture, and tourism. Their creativity and enthusiasm set the stage for Nagoya's future growth as they strive for international recognition.