Keiko Toda: Signs of Spring Discovered Amidst a Hectic Schedule
Keiko Toda | Finding Spring's Message Amidst a Hectic Schedule
A Journey Through Three Cities as the Cherry Blossoms Bloom: Aichi, Mie, Kyoto
Even after the curtain falls on stage, actress Keiko Toda is constantly on the move, traveling nationwide for dramas, variety shows, and her role as Anpanman. Starting in April, she'll even serve as a "LOVE aichi Supporters' Aichi PR Ambassador." Amidst this whirlwind spring, she finds moments of rejuvenation in everyday encounters between work. She draws energy from the vibrant spirit of Mr. Takashi Yanase, a sprightly 94-year-old.
Text by KEIKO TODA
“Keiko Toda Cooks”: A New Segment on “Kiiroi Koinu” is a Big Hit!
After the stage play “Love Song in August”I was on location for a two-hour drama, visiting Kyoto and the shores of Lake Biwa, and completely missed the cherry blossoms in Tokyo. Then, an unexpected treat awaited me. Kyoto was awash in fully bloomed cherry blossoms everywhere. Filming amidst such beauty was a joy. I had a day off and took a stroll through Kyoto, bustling with flower viewers. I indulged in many delicious treats, including mackerel sushi from "Izutsu," amber jelly from the sweets shop "Seien," and tiramisu from the cafe & dining "Gion S."
Entering its fourth year, the Nagoya-based regular program “Kiiroi Koinu” (The Yellow Puppy) has undergone a major segment renewal starting in April! Atsushi is now doing live on-location hot spring broadcasts, while Sayaka Aoki and I continue to provide timely information about the Tokai region live from the studio with our guests. Meanwhile, I'm currently hosting “Keiko Toda Cooks.” Each week, we invite a local chef to share simple recipes that address the concerns of home cooks. It’s been incredibly well-received! I’ve been trying the recipes at home too. They’re so delicious that we end up fighting over them during commercial breaks (laughs). The recipes are available on the program’s website, so please check them out.
This spring, my staff and Sayaka Aoki’s staff, “Team Aoki,” and my staff, “Team Toda,” went on a joint overnight pilgrimage to Ise Grand Shrine. This year is also a Shikinensengu (anniversary rebuilding ceremony). Despite the rain, or rather a storm, it was a very enjoyable and memorable visit.
We were just saying we wanted to go again on a sunny day when, coincidentally, the program featured a special on "Ise Pilgrimage" and explained the proper way to worship. Knowing this has only strengthened my resolve to go again!
Kobe Anpanman Museum Opens!
And perhaps because I have a regular program in Nagoya, on April 13th, I was appointed an "LOVE aichi Supporters' Aichi PR Ambassador" by the current Governor of Aichi Prefecture, Hideaki Omura. From now on, I intend to love Aichi even more by discovering its many charms—its beautiful scenery, delicious food, and new discoveries—and convey its appeal to everyone. I think Aichi Prefecture could use a nickname, like Kagawa’s “Udon Prefecture,” perhaps “Kishimen Prefecture” (laughs)? If you have any good ideas, please let me know.
On April 19th, the Kobe Anpanman Museum opened. I was able to attend the opening ribbon-cutting ceremony with Mr. Takashi Yanase. It has finally arrived in the Kansai region. It's located in a wonderful area within Kobe Harborland. It's a truly delightful museum with the Takashi Yanase Theater, numerous shops, and restaurants, all filled with dreams. That day, I also participated in a show with the costumed characters, which was very lively.
Mr. Yanase himself sang and danced with great energy – truly admirable! At 94 years old, he's amazing… I must learn from him, I must keep trying! I encouraged myself. By the way, the jacket Mr. Yanase is wearing in the photo is made from fabric printed with his own silhouette. It’s very stylish. He said he still has some fabric left and offered, “Keiko, you can make something you like too!” I’m contemplating making something with the original Yanase print. It’s another source of joy. I’ll show you when it’s finished! He’s so fashionable, perhaps that’s the secret to his youthfulness.
