This oral history project was conducted by Alex Sonderegger, a Swiss creator who has lived in Japan for over
20 years. He interviewed nine elderly individuals born and raised in Tahara, capturing their upbringings,
memories, and the town's unique stories that can only be preserved through oral tradition.
Through their vivid words, these elders recount years of hardship and resilience, including experiences of
war and the era of rapid economic growth, painting a picture of the times they lived through. Their
reflections prompt us to consider: How should we live today? What should we pass on to future generations?
Listen closely—you might just find an answer.
You can listen to the audio recordings via the following link. (Japanese
only)
so+ba
Susanna Baer and Alex Sonderegger were born in Switzerland.
They founded the design studio so+ba in
Tokyo in 2001. With
experience in graphic design and advertising in both Switzerland
and Japan, and a deep understanding of the different cultures of
both countries, they specialize in intercultural communication,
which is one of their strengths. They are also active in the fields of
graphic design, art direction, sound visualization, and typography
and design education.
You can listen to the interview by tapping the image. (Japanese only)
Stories about Basho and Tokoku
My favorite haiku is: 'Harunagara Nagoya Nimo Ninu Sora No Iro.' (Though it is spring, the sky looks nothing like Nagoya's.) I feel this haiku beautifully captures Tokoku's deep longing for his hometown.
KAWASAKI Masao
Born in 1941 in Osaka, he was evacuated during the war, drifting like a palm tree seed before eventually settling in this area and becoming an English teacher. While locals often remark that there is "nothing here," he passionately insists that Tahara is rich with hidden treasures.
You can listen to the interview by tapping the image. (Japanese only)
Stories about Childhood Experiences
I worked in the Teishintai (Women's Volunteer Labor Corps) at the Toyogawa Naval Arsenal. Studying? That was out of the question. But still, there’s no place as good as here. Whether the sun shines or the rain falls, this place is wonderful.
KOKUBO Teruko, ISHIBASHI Ayako, NAITO Hiroko
A trio of close friends born and raised in the Irago area. Ms. Kokubo lived through the war during her school days. Having witnessed the transformations in life in Irago before and after the construction of the Toyogawa Canal, they are living encyclopedias of the area's history.
You can listen to the interview by tapping the image. (Japanese only)
Stories about Construction
I’m not the type to just follow instructions as given. I’m always thinking about how to make the job easier next time. That’s how I work—once I’m into it, I get completely absorbed.
YAMADA Hisao
Born in 1938 in the former Tahara Town. A former director of Atsumi Transport, he was involved in transportation work during the construction of the Toyogawa Canal.A dedicated and passionate individual who truly loves their work. His favorite spot in Tahara City is Cape Irago.
You can listen to the interview by tapping the image. (Japanese only)
Stories about Fishing
I became a fisherman because I can work at my own pace. If I don't feel like it, I just don't go out to fish (laughs).
OGAWA Nobuhide
Born in 1956 in the Konakayama area. His father was also a fisherman, and he started out on a merchant ship.He has been a fisherman for about 30 years. In a district known for clam fishing and seaweed farming, he is one of the few focused on catching fish. His favorite food is Niboshi(dried sardines).
You can listen to the interview by tapping the image. (Japanese only)
Stories about Cuisine
I hope young people will remember them by their taste, not just by following recipes. That's why our cooking tends to be a bit carefree! (laughs)
NAKAGAWA Miyoko
Born in 1938 in the Furuta area. In 1983, she became the chairperson of the lifestyle improvement group "Kagayaki Net Atsumi." She also served as the first female department head of JA Aichi Minami. Nowadays, she spends her time enjoying ground golf with friends. Her favorite food is haze (goby) wrapped in kombu seaweed.
You can listen to the interview by tapping the image. (Japanese only)
Stories about the Old Roads
The name "Tahara Kaido" seems to have been established during the Meiji era. However, the road itself existed during the Edo era and was reportedly the busiest among the main roads of the Atsumi Peninsula.
YAMADA Masatoshi
Born in 1944 in the Noda area. After becoming a teacher in Aichi Prefecture, he served as the principal of Noda Elementary School. He launched the "Chatty Walking Along the Tahara Road, Once Walked by Basho" experience as part of the local tourism expo Tahara Meguri-na. He shares the joy of walking along the historic Tahara Road.
You can listen to the interview by tapping the image. (Japanese only)
Stories about Agricultur
They relied not only on rainwater for agriculture but also for drinking. The completion of the Toyogawa Canal drastically transformed agriculture. Our current way of life is thanks to the Toyogawa Canal.
FUJISHIRO Nobuyuki
Born in 1954 in the Omotehama ((Minamikanbe) area. During his childhood, the community engaged in farming and fishing, cultivating crops like potatoes and barley and using seine nets for fishing. He enjoys studying topography and geology, as well as painting, and hosts lectures and art exhibitions annually. A former school principal.