OSHU CITY, Japan (AP) — Shohei Ohtani's hometown in northern Japan, Oshu City, is a rural area known for its Maesawa beef, traditional ironware craftsmanship, and picturesque green hills and mountains. Referred to as “inaka” in Japanese, meaning the countryside, Oshu City is located 300 miles (500 kilometers) from Tokyo, offering a serene and tranquil environment.
Oshu City takes immense pride in Shohei Ohtani, who began his baseball journey in the local Little League with the Mizusawa Pirates and later played for Hanamaki Higashi High School before making his mark in the World Series. As Ohtani's Los Angeles Dodgers compete for the championship, fans in Oshu City eagerly follow his games.
One notable tribute to Ohtani in Oshu City is the “Seems” hair salon owned by Hironobu Kanno. The salon has been transformed into a shrine dedicated to Ohtani, featuring a vast collection of over 300 artifacts, including signed jerseys, baseballs, bats, and various memorabilia associated with the baseball superstar.
Kanno's admiration for Ohtani sparked the collection, which began with a signed baseball from Ohtani's professional debut in 2013. Over the years, the collection has grown significantly, with Kanno estimating an investment of approximately $100,000 in Ohtani merchandise.
Visitors to Oshu City can also explore the city hall, where a display showcases Ohtani's achievements, including his MVP titles and a replica of his right hand. The golden hand allows fans to interact with a video demonstration by Ohtani on its creation.
Ohtani's impact extends beyond baseball, resonating with fans like Keigo Kishino and his wife Chiaki, who traveled from Osaka to experience the tribute firsthand. Ohtani's prowess on the field and his humble demeanor have made him a national icon, bridging cultural divides and inspiring admiration from diverse audiences.
Mayor Jun Kuranari of Oshu City lauds Ohtani as an inspiration and role model for his exceptional talent and humility. The community's support for Ohtani is evident, with creative gestures like the rice paddy art featuring his likeness, symbolizing local pride and admiration for the baseball prodigy.
Ohtani's legacy in Oshu City transcends sports, embodying the values of dedication, humility, and excellence that resonate with fans worldwide.
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