Japanese musicians died at 71
Here are 24 famous musicians from Japan died at 71:
Hitomi Yamaguchi
Hitomi Yamaguchi (November 3, 1923 Tokyo-August 30, 1995 Kunitachi) was a Japanese writer and novelist.
She was born in Tokyo in 1923 and grew up during World War II. Yamaguchi studied law at the University of Tokyo but dropped out to pursue her writing career. She made her debut as a writer at the age of 25 and went on to write several popular novels, including "Kono Yo no Yume" and "Saigo no Tokkotai". Her writing often dealt with themes of war, love, and loss.
Yamaguchi was recognized for her contributions to Japanese literature and was awarded several honors throughout her career, including the prestigious Akutagawa Prize in 1958. She was also a member of the Japan Art Academy, serving as one of the only female members.
In addition to writing, Yamaguchi was also an advocate for women's rights and a supporter of the anti-nuclear movement. She passed away in 1995 at the age of 71. Her legacy continues to influence Japanese literature and culture today.
Yamaguchi's writing career spanned over three decades and she developed a loyal following of readers. Many of her novels were adapted into films and television dramas, further solidifying her place in Japanese popular culture. She also wrote several essays and works of non-fiction, exploring topics such as the role of women in society and the impact of war on individuals and communities.
In addition to her literary accomplishments, Yamaguchi was an influential figure in the arts community. She worked actively to promote the work of other writers and served as a mentor to younger generations of aspiring writers. She was known for her generosity and kindness towards those she worked with, earning her the respect and admiration of her peers.
Yamaguchi's contributions to Japanese culture were recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout her life. In 1988, she was awarded the Order of Culture by the Japanese government, one of the highest honors given in the country. Her influence on Japanese literature continues to be felt today, with many of her works still widely read and studied by scholars and readers alike.
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Yone Noguchi
Yone Noguchi (December 8, 1875 Tsushima-July 13, 1947 Tokyo) a.k.a. Yoné Noguchi was a Japanese poet, essayist, writer and literary critic.
Noguchi spent a significant amount of his life living abroad in places such as the United States and England, where he became acquainted with various literary figures of the time, such as Ezra Pound and William Butler Yeats. He is known for his contributions to the modernization of Japanese poetry and his efforts to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western cultures through his writing. Noguchi's poetry often explored themes such as love, nature, and spirituality. In addition to his written works, he also worked as a journalist and taught English in Japan. Despite facing criticism and controversy throughout his career, Yone Noguchi remains a notable figure in Japanese literature and cultural exchange.
Noguchi was born into a family of samurai and was the son of a prominent scholar of classical Chinese literature. He grew up in a traditional Japanese society that valued literary and artistic pursuits, and this environment had a significant impact on his early artistic interests. In 1893, he moved to the United States, where he studied at the University of California and began his literary career.
Noguchi's work was influenced by Western modernism, and he sought to integrate the stylistic developments of contemporary art with the spiritual and cultural traditions of Japan. He published numerous poetry collections, including "The Pilgrimage" and "From the Eastern Sea," and wrote essays and critical works on Japanese literature and culture.
In addition to his literary and cultural pursuits, Noguchi was also an advocate for social justice and equality. He spoke out against racism and discrimination in his writing and was involved in movements to promote international peace and cooperation.
Noguchi was a complex and controversial figure, and his work and life have been the subject of ongoing debate and analysis. However, his contributions to the development of modern Japanese poetry and the promotion of cross-cultural understanding and dialogue continue to be revered today.
He died in cancer.
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Shūsei Tokuda
Shūsei Tokuda (December 23, 1871 Kanazawa-November 18, 1943 Tokyo) was a Japanese writer.
Born in Kanazawa, Tokuda began her career as a journalist and later turned to writing fiction. She is best known for her realistic and socially critical novels, which often focused on the lives of women and working-class people. Her most famous work, "Narayama bushiko" (The Ballad of Narayama), was published in 1956 and has been adapted into several films. Tokuda was an advocate for women's rights and often used her writing to address issues such as gender inequality and domestic violence. Despite facing criticism from more conservative members of society, she continued to write and publish until her death in 1943. Her legacy has had a lasting impact on Japanese literature and helped pave the way for future female writers.
In addition to her career as a writer, Shūsei Tokuda was also an activist for women's rights. She was a member of the Japan Women's Society and the Women's Christian Temperance Union, where she advocated for women's suffrage and the abolishment of prostitution. During World War II, Tokuda was also involved in relief efforts for those affected by the war. She was awarded several honors for her contributions to Japanese literature and society, including the Order of Culture, one of Japan's highest honors, in 1943. In recent years, her works have been translated into other languages and have gained recognition beyond Japan, securing her place as one of the country's most important female writers.
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Motoori Norinaga
Motoori Norinaga (June 21, 1730 Matsusaka-November 5, 1801 Matsusaka) was a Japanese writer and philosopher. He had one child, Motoori Haruniwa.
Norinaga is considered the most outstanding scholar of Kokugaku, a school of Japanese philology and philosophy that emphasizes the importance of Japanese classics and the unique nature of Japanese culture. He devoted his life to the study and interpretation of the Man'yōshū, the oldest collection of Japanese poetry from the 8th century. Norinaga believed that the study of Japanese classics would revive Japan's cultural identity, which was seen as threatened by the influx of foreign ideas and values during the Edo period. His influential works include Kojiki-den, a commentary on the Kojiki, Japan's oldest historical record, and Genji Monogatari Tama no Ogushi, a commentary on The Tale of Genji, often considered the greatest work of Japanese literature. Norinaga's ideas and scholarship had a significant impact on Japanese literature, art, and culture and his influence is still felt today.
Apart from his commentaries on Japanese classics, Motoori Norinaga also wrote extensively on the philosophy of language, particularly the concept of mono no aware, which describes the beauty of impermanence and transience in Japanese literature and art. He believed that language was not just a tool for communication, but that it also revealed cultural values and emotions. Norinaga's ideas on language and culture influenced many Japanese intellectuals and artists of the time, and continue to inspire scholars to this day.
In addition to his scholarly contributions, Motoori Norinaga was also politically active, advocating for the protection and preservation of Japanese culture and tradition in the face of foreign influence. Along with other Kokugaku scholars, he sought to promote the use of Japanese language and literature in education and government, and to encourage a sense of national pride and unity.
Despite his significant accomplishments and influence, Motoori Norinaga lived a relatively modest life in his hometown of Matsusaka, where he operated a small pharmacy to support himself and his family. He died in 1801 at the age of 71, but his legacy lives on through his writings and the ongoing impact of his ideas on Japanese culture and identity.
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Tōson Shimazaki
Tōson Shimazaki (March 25, 1872 Nakatsugawa-August 22, 1943 Tokyo) a.k.a. Tōson Shimazaki, Shimazaki Haruki, 島崎 藤村 or Shimazaki Toson was a Japanese writer and novelist.
Tōson Shimazaki was known for his contributions to Japanese literature during the Meiji period. His most famous work is the novel, "Before the Dawn" (Yoakemae), which depicts the struggles of a man trying to reconcile his identity as a Japanese citizen with his loyalty to his Ainu roots. This work helped to shed light on the long-standing discrimination against the Ainu people in Japan.
Shimazaki was also an avid student of Western literature, and he translated some of the works of William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens into Japanese. He was awarded the Order of Culture by the Japanese government in 1943, the same year he passed away.
Shimazaki's works are still widely read and studied in Japan today, and his legacy as an important literary figure in Japan is celebrated.
Tōson Shimazaki was born to a family of samurais in Nakatsugawa, Gifu Prefecture, Japan. He attended Tokyo Imperial University and studied English literature. After graduating in 1898, he worked as an English teacher and translator, and eventually became a professor of English literature at Kyoto Imperial University.
Shimazaki was a member of the Shirakaba literary group, which was known for its avant-garde and modernist approach to literature. He was also involved in the movement for women's rights in Japan and wrote several works that focused on women's experiences and challenges, such as "The Family" and "The Broken Commandment."
In addition to his literary contributions, Shimazaki was also involved in politics and social activism. He advocated for democracy and was a member of the Japan Socialist Party, as well as the Proletarian Art League.
Shimazaki's works were not only significant for their artistic merit, but also for their role in shaping Japan's national identity and understanding of social and political issues. Today, he is remembered as a leader in modern Japanese literature and as a powerful voice for social justice.
He died in stroke.
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Ken Ogata
Ken Ogata (July 20, 1937 Ushigome-October 5, 2008 Mibu) a.k.a. Akinobu Ogata, Ogata Akinobu or Ogata Ken was a Japanese actor. His children are called Naoto Ogata and Kanta Ogata.
Ken Ogata was a prolific actor, known for his outstanding performances in Japanese cinema and television dramas. Born and raised in Ushigome, Tokyo, he began his acting career in the early 1960s, and was known for his versatility, range and intensity on screen. He garnered critical acclaim for his performances in films like "The Ballad of Narayama" (1983), "Mishima: A Life in Four Chapters" (1985) and "Vengeance is Mine" (1979), all of which earned him numerous awards for best actor.
Ogata's talents were not confined to just the big screen, as he was equally adept at performing in stage plays and television dramas. His most notable TV role was in the 1998 NHK Taiga drama "Tokugawa Yoshinobu", where he played the titular shogun.
Despite his untimely death in 2008 due to liver cancer, Ken Ogata's legacy as one of Japan's finest actors continues to live on.
Ken Ogata was a graduate of the Bungakuza School of Dramatic Arts and made his acting debut in the 1960 film "Warui yatsu hodo yoku nemuru" (The Bad Sleep Well). He was a regular collaborator with director Shohei Imamura, who directed him in several of his most acclaimed performances, including "Vengeance is Mine" (1979) and "Zegen" (1987). Aside from his work in film and television, Ogata was also a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to several anime series and films.
In addition to his acting work, Ken Ogata was also a prominent member of the Japanese film industry. He served as the chairman of the Japan Academy Prize Association from 2006 until his death in 2008, and was posthumously awarded the Japan Academy Prize Special Award in recognition of his contributions to Japanese cinema.
He died caused by liver cancer.
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Ōtani Kōzui
Ōtani Kōzui (December 27, 1876 Kyoto-October 5, 1948) was a Japanese personality.
He was a Zen teacher, author, and social activist who was a central figure in the modernization of Buddhism in Japan in the early 20th century. Born into a family of Zen priests, Ōtani studied at a young age in Kyoto's top Zen temples. He went on to receive his education in Europe and the United States and gained a reputation as a leading authority on Zen Buddhism. In 1923, he founded the Shinshu Otani-ha sect, which has become one of the largest Buddhist organizations in Japan. He was also active in social and political issues, advocating for peace and democracy in Japan. Ōtani's writings on Buddhism are still widely read and influential today.
In addition to his work as a Zen teacher, Ōtani also played a significant role in establishing Japanese Buddhism in the West. He made several trips to the United States, where he gave lectures and established contacts with American Buddhist groups. He helped to create the Buddhist Studies program at UC Berkeley and was a founding member of the Buddhist Society of America.
Ōtani was deeply committed to social justice and political reform. In the 1920s and 1930s, he collaborated with other activists to oppose militarism and imperialism in Japan. He also worked to improve the lives of workers and peasants, advocating for better working conditions and wages. During World War II, he was briefly imprisoned by the government for his activism.
After the war, Ōtani continued to promote peace and democracy in Japan. He was a vocal opponent of the country's remilitarization and played a key role in the postwar Buddhist movement to promote pacifism and demilitarization. He died in 1948 at the age of 71. Today, Ōtani Kōzui is remembered as one of Japan's most influential thinkers and reformers, whose work helped to shape modern Japanese Buddhism and social activism.
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Kikunae Ikeda
Kikunae Ikeda (October 8, 1864 Kyoto-May 3, 1936) was a Japanese scientist, professor and chemist.
He is best known for discovering umami, the fifth basic taste of human perception, in 1908. He found this taste by isolating and analyzing glutamic acid, an amino acid found in seaweed broth. Ikeda graduated from the University of Tokyo in 1887 and went on to teach chemistry at various universities in Japan. He also contributed to the founding of Ajinomoto, a Japanese company that produces monosodium glutamate (MSG), which is derived from his discovery of umami. In addition to his work in the food industry, Ikeda was also involved in research on color blindness and the chemistry of silk. He was posthumously awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure in 1940 by the Japanese government for his contributions to the fields of chemistry and industry.
Ikeda’s interest in the flavor of food was sparked by his wife’s culinary skills, and he sought to scientifically understand the taste of traditional Japanese dishes. He termed the fifth taste “umami”, which translates to “pleasant savory taste” in Japanese. Ikeda’s discovery of umami brought a new understanding to taste perception and influenced the food industry worldwide. Ikeda also authored books on chemistry and was involved in agricultural research, specifically the use of compost and the application of chemical fertilizers. He was a founding member of the Chemical Society of Japan and contributed significantly to the development of chemical education in Japan.
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Akiyama Yoshifuru
Akiyama Yoshifuru (February 9, 1859 Matsuyama-November 4, 1930 Matsuyama) was a Japanese personality.
He was a military general in the Imperial Japanese Army and a key figure in the development of Japanese military strategy and tactics in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Akiyama played a critical role in the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905, leading the Japanese forces to a stunning victory against the Russian Empire.
After retiring from military service, Akiyama became involved in politics and served as a member of the House of Peers in the Imperial Diet of Japan. He was also active in various cultural and educational associations, and worked to promote traditional Japanese martial arts and physical fitness. Today he is remembered as one of Japan's foremost military leaders, and his contributions to the development of modern Japanese military strategy continue to be studied and analyzed by military historians and strategists around the world.
Akiyama, born in Ehime Prefecture, was the second son of a Samurai family. He enrolled in the Imperial Japanese Army Academy in 1875 and graduated four years later. On a trip to Europe, he studied at the École Spéciale Militaire de Saint-Cyr in France before returning to Japan in 1882. He was appointed as military attaché to the Japanese embassy in Paris, where he studied French army tactics and organization.
Upon his return to Japan, Akiyama quickly rose through the ranks of the Imperial Japanese Army through his competence and innovation in tactics and training, and was appointed as a lieutenant-colonel in 1895 after the First Sino-Japanese War. He was later promoted to major general and took command of the Imperial Guards Division.
Akiyama's greatest accomplishment came during the Russo-Japanese War when he commanded the Japanese Fourth Army at the Battle of Mukden, where the Japanese decisively defeated the Russian army, marking the first time a European power was defeated by an Asian power in modern times.
Throughout his career in the military and in politics, Akiyama was known for his advocacy for physical fitness and training in traditional Japanese martial arts, such as kendo, kyudo, and sumo, as he believed that these disciplines developed discipline and mental strength in addition to physical ability.
Akiyama retired from the military in 1919, but continued his involvement in politics and cultural affairs until his death in 1930. His legacy as a military leader and advocate for traditional Japanese martial arts continues to be celebrated and studied in modern-day Japan.
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Inazō Nitobe
Inazō Nitobe (September 1, 1862 Morioka-October 15, 1933 Victoria) also known as Inazo Nitobe was a Japanese writer, politician and peace activist.
He was born into a samurai family and studied in Japan and the United States before becoming an agricultural expert for the Japanese government. Nitobe later became an educator, teaching at universities in Japan and Europe. He is best known for his book "Bushido: The Soul of Japan", which explores the traditional code of Japanese chivalry and ethics. Nitobe was also a leading advocate for international cooperation and was instrumental in the founding of the League of Nations. He served as a delegate for Japan and contributed to the creation of the International Labor Organization. Nitobe's legacy as a scholar and diplomat continues to be celebrated in both Japan and around the world.
In addition to his contributions as an educator and politician, Inazo Nitobe was also a prolific writer, having authored numerous books and articles throughout his lifetime. Apart from "Bushido: The Soul of Japan", he also wrote "The Japanese Nation in Evolution", "The Japanese Fairytale Series", and "The Sino-Japanese Conflict: Thoughts on Its Solution". Nitobe's writings reflect his passion for promoting greater understanding and cooperation between different cultures and nations.
Nitobe's impact on international relations was significant, as he was one of the few Japanese politicians of his time who recognized the value of diplomacy and cooperation. His work in the League of Nations paved the way for future generations of Japanese diplomats and was a key factor in Japan's ongoing efforts to engage with the global community.
Today, Nitobe is remembered not only as a scholar and diplomat but also as a symbol of the enduring friendship and cooperation between Japan and other nations. His legacy continues to inspire people of all backgrounds to work towards a more peaceful and equitable world.
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Kaku Takagawa
Kaku Takagawa (September 21, 1915 Wakayama-November 26, 1986) was a Japanese personality.
He was primarily known for his work in the field of entertainment, specifically as an actor, singer, and television host. Takagawa began his career as a singer in the mid-1930s and quickly gained popularity in Japan. He made his acting debut in the late 1940s and starred in numerous films and television dramas throughout his career.
In addition to his work in entertainment, Takagawa was also a successful businessman. He owned several nightclubs and restaurants in Tokyo, and he was known for his extravagant lifestyle. Despite his success, Takagawa remained humble and was highly regarded for his generosity and philanthropy.
Takagawa was married twice and had two daughters. He passed away in 1986 at the age of 71 due to complications from lung cancer. He is remembered as a beloved entertainer and respected member of the Japanese community.
Throughout his career, Kaku Takagawa appeared in over 70 films and numerous television dramas. Some of his most notable film performances include "Shin Heike Monogatari" (1955), "Otoko wa Tsurai yo" (1968), and "The Pacific War and the International Military Tribunal" (1975). In addition to acting, Takagawa was also a talented stage performer and appeared in several theatrical productions.
Aside from his entertainment career, Takagawa was a savvy entrepreneur who owned several successful nightclubs and restaurants. His clubs were popular with celebrities and politicians, and he was known for his extravagant parties and events. Despite his lavish lifestyle, Takagawa was also known for his charity work and donated generously to various causes throughout his life.
Takagawa's legacy continues to live on in Japan, where he is remembered as a beloved figure in the entertainment world and a respected member of the community. His contributions to Japanese culture and society are still celebrated to this day.
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Shinichi Hoshi
Shinichi Hoshi (September 6, 1926 Tokyo-December 30, 1997 Tokyo) also known as Shinichiro Hoshi was a Japanese writer and novelist.
He was known for his short stories that revolved around science fiction and humor, often blending the two genres. His works were popular in Japan and have been translated into English, French, and other languages. Hoshi was a prolific writer, producing over 1,000 short stories throughout his career. In 1973, he won the Izumi Kyoka Prize for Literature for his contributions to Japanese science fiction. Hoshi also worked as a translator, translating the works of George Bernard Shaw and other English writers into Japanese. He passed away in 1997 at the age of 71 due to heart failure.
Hoshi's interest in literature and the arts began at a young age when he was still attending high school. After graduating, he started working in a factory before he pursued a career in writing. His first published work, a science fiction short story, appeared in a Japanese magazine in 1950. This launched his career as a writer, and he continued to produce stories that were both imaginative and humorous.
In addition to his contributions to science fiction, Hoshi was also known for his efforts in introducing English literature to Japanese readers. He translated works by George Bernard Shaw, Aldous Huxley, and Ray Bradbury, among others.
Hoshi's writing style was often described as surreal and absurd. His stories were known for their unexpected twists and turns, and his characters often found themselves in bizarre situations. He continued to write until his death in 1997, leaving behind a legacy as one of Japan's most beloved science fiction writers.
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Toyohiko Kagawa
Toyohiko Kagawa (July 10, 1888 Kobe-April 23, 1960) was a Japanese writer, peace activist and pastor.
He was known for his devotion to the cause of social justice and for his work in alleviating poverty in Japan. Kagawa was born into a wealthy family, but he chose to devote his life to helping the disadvantaged. He became a Christian in 1913 and was ordained as a pastor in 1916.
Kagawa was a prolific writer and wrote over 150 books throughout his life, many of which were focused on social justice issues. He was also a strong advocate for peace, and worked tirelessly to promote peace and understanding between different cultures.
During World War II, Kagawa was deeply opposed to Japan's military aggression and worked to promote peace and reconciliation. After the war, he worked to rebuild Japan and was a key figure in the post-war peace movement.
Kagawa's legacy continues to inspire people around the world today. He is remembered for his commitment to social justice, his advocacy for peace, and his dedication to helping the most vulnerable members of society.
Kagawa's work in alleviating poverty in Japan was driven by his belief in Christianity's call for love and compassion towards one's neighbor. He established numerous cooperative ventures and self-help initiatives, including the Kobe Federation of Cottage Industries and the Japan Prophetic Mission. Kagawa was also involved in the establishment of Japan's first labor union for rural farmers and helped to establish the first Christian "settlement house" in Tokyo.
In addition to his activism, Kagawa was also known for his personal humility and simplicity of lifestyle. He often dressed in simple clothing and lived in modest accommodations, refusing to use his status as a writer and religious leader for personal gain.
Kagawa was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1955, and his contributions to peace and social justice continue to be recognized today. In his honor, the Toyohiko Kagawa Memorial Society was established in Japan in 1960, and several educational institutions bear his name, including the Kagawa Memorial School of Social Work in Kobe, Japan.
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Shūmei Ōkawa
Shūmei Ōkawa (December 6, 1886 Sakata-December 24, 1957) was a Japanese writer.
He was also a political thinker, nationalist, and controversial figure in Japan's history. Ōkawa's work spanned multiple genres, including literature, philosophy, and politics. He is known for his views on politics, religion, and Japanese culture, which were heavily influenced by the traditional values of Japan during the Meiji period. Throughout his career, Ōkawa wrote over 1,000 books, many of which remain in print today. He was also a prominent member of the Japanese nationalist movement and was involved in several political organizations, including the Imperial Way Faction, which aimed to restore power to the Emperor during World War II. After the war, he was tried as a war criminal but was later released due to his poor health. Despite controversy surrounding his views and actions, Ōkawa's legacy continues to shape modern Japanese nationalism and traditionalist thought.
Aside from his literary work and political involvement, Shūmei Ōkawa was also an important figure in the spiritual and religious landscape of Japan. He was a member of the Sōtō school of Zen Buddhism and was also a follower of Nativism, a movement that sought to revive pre-modern Japanese spirituality and culture. Ōkawa's belief in the importance of traditional Japanese values and culture extended to his personal life as well. He lived a simple lifestyle, eschewing modern conveniences like electricity and automobiles in favor of more traditional modes of living. Despite his controversial views, Ōkawa's influence continues to be felt in modern Japanese society, particularly among nationalists and conservative thinkers who seek to preserve Japan's cultural heritage.
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Yoshio Harada
Yoshio Harada (February 29, 1940 Adachi-July 19, 2011 Tokyo) also known as Harada Yoshio was a Japanese actor. He had two children, Mayu Harada and Kenta Harada.
Harada was best known for his work in Japanese cinema, where he appeared in over 140 films. He began his acting career in the 1960s, appearing in a number of yakuza films before transitioning into more dramatic roles in the 1980s. Harada was known for his intense and complex portrayals of characters, and was highly respected by critics and audiences alike for his craft. He won numerous awards throughout his career, including the Best Actor award at the Venice Film Festival for his performance in “The Twilight Samurai” in 2002. In addition to his film work, Harada also appeared in several television dramas and stage productions. He was widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation in Japan.
Harada's passion for acting was honed during his university years when he was part of the drama club at Meiji University. After he graduated with a degree in Literature, Harada pursued acting full-time, eventually joining the Bungakuza Theatre Company where he performed in various plays. Throughout his career, he continued to work in theater, both as an actor and director. In addition to his work in film, Harada was also known for his voice acting, lending his voice to several anime series and movies. He was also a prolific writer, publishing a number of essays, fiction and non-fiction works. Harada remained active in the entertainment industry until his death in 2011, at the age of 71. His legacy continues to live on, with his work inspiring younger generations of actors in Japan.
He died in pneumonia.
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Ichirō Arishima
Ichirō Arishima (March 1, 1916 Nagoya-July 20, 1987) a.k.a. Ichiro Arishima, Tadao Oshima, The Japanese Chaplin, Arishima Ichirō or Oshima Tadao was a Japanese comedian and actor.
Ichirō Arishima began his career in the entertainment industry as a stage comedian in the 1940s. He gained popularity for his physical comedy, which often drew comparisons to Charlie Chaplin. He later transitioned to film, where he appeared in over 300 movies and TV dramas.
Arishima's acting career spanned several decades, and he was known for his versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles. Some of his most notable works include "The Human Condition," "Samurai III: Duel at Ganryu Island," and "The Insect Woman."
In addition to acting, Arishima was also a prolific writer, penning several books and scripts for TV dramas. He was also a frequent guest on various talk shows and variety programs.
Arishima's legacy continues to influence Japanese comedy and entertainment to this day. He is remembered as one of the most iconic and beloved figures in the industry.
Despite his success as a comedian and actor, Ichirō Arishima faced censorship issues during his career due to his outspoken political views. He was a vocal opponent of the Japanese government's control over the entertainment industry and was even arrested in 1951 for his involvement in a left-wing political organization. Arishima continued to speak out against government censorship and oppression throughout his life.
Arishima was also known for his philanthropic work, and he frequently donated to charities and organizations that supported children's welfare and education. He established the Arishima Memorial Theater in his hometown of Nagoya, which is still in operation today.
In recognition of his contributions to Japanese comedy and entertainment, Ichirō Arishima was posthumously awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette in 1988. He is remembered as a trailblazer in the industry, paving the way for future generations of comedians and actors.
He died as a result of heart failure.
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Michiyo Aratama
Michiyo Aratama (January 15, 1930 Nara-March 17, 2001 Tokyo) also known as Kyoko Toda or Aratama Michiyo was a Japanese actor.
Michiyo Aratama started her career as an actor in 1953 with the film "Okaasan" (Mother) directed by Mikio Naruse. She appeared in several films throughout her career, including "Wild Geese" (1953), "I Will Buy You" (1956), and "Red Lion" (1969). She also worked on television dramas such as "Daichan dokyo soo" (1976) and "Kasuga no Tsubone" (1989).
In addition to her work as an actor, Michiyo Aratama was also known for her philanthropy, particularly for her advocacy of education for young girls. She established the Michiyo Aratama Scholarship in 1977, which provides financial assistance to girls pursuing higher education. She also served as the president of St. Hilda's School, a girls' school in Tokyo.
Michiyo Aratama was married to film director Masaki Kobayashi from 1953 until his death in 1996. They collaborated on several film projects, including "Kwaidan" (1964) and "Samurai Rebellion" (1967).
Despite facing several challenges throughout her life, Michiyo Aratama never let her difficulties affect her love for acting. She continued to work in the film and television industry for over four decades and was widely regarded as one of the best actors of her time. She received numerous accolades for her work, including the Best Supporting Actress Award at the Blue Ribbon Awards and the Kinema Junpo Award for Best Actress. In 1993, she was recognized with the Order of the Sacred Treasure, one of the highest honors awarded by the Japanese government. Her legacy as an actor and philanthropist continues to inspire many in Japan and beyond.
She died caused by heart failure.
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Seiji Miyaguchi
Seiji Miyaguchi (November 15, 1913 Tokyo City-April 12, 1985 Meguro) also known as Miyaguchi Seiji was a Japanese actor.
Miyaguchi started his career as a theatre actor and later transitioned to the film industry, working with prominent directors such as Akira Kurosawa and Kenji Mizoguchi. He is best known for his role as the sword-fighting master, Shimura Kingo, in Kurosawa's classic film "Seven Samurai."
Aside from acting, Miyaguchi was also a skilled dancer, specializing in Japanese traditional dance. He incorporated his dancing skills into his acting performances, adding grace and fluidity to his fight scenes.
Miyaguchi received many awards and honors throughout his career, including the prestigious Order of the Rising Sun from the Japanese government. His legacy as an actor and a dancer continues to inspire generations of Japanese artists.
Miyaguchi's career spanned over four decades and he appeared in more than 100 films, leaving an indelible mark on Japanese cinema. He was particularly known for his ability to convey profound emotions through subtle facial expressions and body language. Apart from his iconic role in "Seven Samurai," Miyaguchi played several memorable characters in Kurosawa's other films such as "Yojimbo," "Throne of Blood," and "Sanjuro." His collaboration with Mizoguchi yielded noteworthy performances in films like "Ugetsu," "Sansho the Bailiff," and "Street of Shame." In addition to acting, Miyaguchi also taught acting and conducted acting workshops at the Japan Performing Arts Foundation. He was a mentor to many aspiring actors and was highly respected in the Japanese film industry. Today, the Seiji Miyaguchi Memorial Hall in Tokyo commemorates his illustrious career and contributions to Japanese culture.
He died as a result of lung cancer.
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Gotō Shinpei
Gotō Shinpei (July 24, 1857 Oshu-April 13, 1929) a.k.a. Goto Shimpei was a Japanese politician.
Gotō Shinpei was a prominent politician and statesman during the Meiji and Taishō periods in Japan. He was born in the city of Oshu in 1857, and went on to study medicine at Tokyo Imperial University. Upon completion of his studies, he worked as a physician and professor before turning to politics.
Gotō became known for his efforts to modernize the Japanese government and promote social welfare policies. He served as the Minister of Communications, where he oversaw the construction of major infrastructure projects such as railroads and telegraph lines. He also served as the Minister of the Interior, where he worked to reform the civil service and improve public health.
Despite his many accomplishments, Gotō was not immune to controversy. He was criticized for his handling of the 1918 H1N1 influenza pandemic, which some saw as an overreaction that caused unnecessary anxiety and economic disruption. In 1921, he was forced to resign from the government after a corruption scandal.
Despite these setbacks, Gotō remained a respected figure in Japanese society until his death in 1929 from a cerebral hemorrhage. He is remembered today as a pioneer in Japanese social and political reform.
Gotō Shinpei's contributions to Japan's modernization extended beyond his role in government. He was a co-founder of Keio University and served as its first president. Gotō was also a leader in the movement to establish a public health system in Japan, founding the Tokyo Metropolitan Infectious Diseases Hospital and advocating for the creation of public health insurance. In addition, he was a strong advocate for women's rights and played a key role in the introduction of women's suffrage in Japan. Gotō's legacy continues to be celebrated in Japan today, with many institutions and public spaces named after him, including the Gotō Memorial Museum in his hometown of Oshu.
He died in cerebral hemorrhage.
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Hōjō Tokiyuki
Hōjō Tokiyuki (March 23, 1858 Kanazawa-April 27, 1929) a.k.a. Hojo Tokiyuki was a Japanese politician and mathematician.
He studied mathematics at the University of Tokyo and later became a professor at the Tokyo Higher Normal School. In 1892, he entered politics and was elected to the Diet of Japan as a member of the constitutional party. He held various high-level government positions, including Ministry of Education and Minister of Agriculture and Commerce. He was known for his efforts to improve the education system in Japan and for his promotion of scientific research. In his later years, he focused on promoting international cooperation in mathematics and helped organize the International Congress of Mathematicians in Japan in 1920. He is also credited with coining the term "wandering set" in mathematics.
Hōjō Tokiyuki was born into a samurai family in Kanazawa, which was then the capital of the Kaga Domain. His father, Hōjō Tokimasa, was a physician for the Maeda clan, the rulers of Kaga. Tokiyuki showed an early aptitude for mathematics and was sent to study at the Tokyo Imperial University, where he earned a degree in mathematics in 1882. He went on to study in Germany and was greatly influenced by the mathematicians of the time.
Upon returning to Japan, Hojo Tokiyuki became a professor at the Tokyo Higher Normal School and later the Tokyo Imperial University. He was a member of the Seimi-ka, the first elected lower house of the Japanese Diet, and was known for his eloquent speeches in favor of constitutional government and internationalism.
Hojo Tokiyuki was a strong advocate for the modernization of Japan's educational system, particularly in the fields of mathematics and science. He believed that these subjects were essential for the country's future development and worked tirelessly to promote them. During his tenure as Minister of Education, he oversaw the implementation of a new curriculum that emphasized scientific and technical education.
Hojo Tokiyuki's contributions to mathematics were also significant. He was a pioneer in the study of complex analysis and made important contributions to the study of differential equations. He co-founded the Mathematical Society of Japan and played a key role in organizing the International Congress of Mathematicians, which was held in Japan for the first time in 1920.
Hojo Tokiyuki passed away in 1929 at the age of 71. He left behind a legacy as a brilliant mathematician, influential educator, and visionary statesman.
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Ryu Mitsuse
Ryu Mitsuse (March 18, 1928 Arakawa, Tokyo-July 7, 1999) a.k.a. Chiba Kimio or Iizuka Kimio was a Japanese personality.
He was primarily known as a science fiction writer and his work delved into the themes of cosmicism and metaphysics. He won numerous awards for his writing, including the Nihon SF Taisho Award, the Seiun Award, and the Japan SF Grand Prize. In addition to writing, Ryu Mitsuse was also involved in the film industry as a scriptwriter, director, and actor. He was a founding member of the Japan Science Fiction Writers' Club and was a prolific writer, publishing over 30 novels and numerous short stories. Mitsuse's work inspired a generation of Japanese science fiction writers and his legacy continues to influence the genre to this day.
Mitsuse was born into a family of doctors and originally pursued a career in medicine but dropped out of medical school to become a writer. His first published work was a mystery novel called Ten to Sen (Points and Lines) which was released in 1958. However, it was his science fiction writing that gained him international recognition. His most popular works include The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, The Nine Colored Deer, and Boy Who Returned to the Earth. Mitsuse's writing style was known for its philosophical depth and exploration of the human condition. He often questioned the nature of reality and the limitations of human understanding. Mitsuse's influence extended beyond Japan and his works have been translated into several languages. His legacy in the world of science fiction continues to inspire new generations of writers and readers alike.
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Masaru Satoh
Masaru Satoh (May 29, 1928 Rumoi-December 5, 1999 Tokyo) a.k.a. Masaru Satō, Masaru Satou, Satō Masaru, Satou Masaru, Sato Masaru, Masaru Satô or Masaru Sato was a Japanese film score composer.
His most important albums: Film Music of Masaru Satoh, Half Human, High & Low, Red Beard, Sanjuro, Son of Godzilla, The Bad Sleep Well, The H-Man, The Hidden Fortress (Complete Edition) and The Throne of Blood.
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Hachisuka Mochiaki
Hachisuka Mochiaki (September 28, 1846-February 10, 1918) was a Japanese politician.
He served as the 15th and 18th Governor of Kagawa Prefecture and the 28th and 30th Governor of Hiroshima Prefecture. Mochiaki was known for his efforts in modernizing the prefectures under his leadership, including the development of transportation infrastructure such as roads and railways. He was also a strong advocate for education and worked to improve the educational system in his prefectures. Mochiaki played a key role in the Meiji Restoration and was considered as one of the major figures in the modernization of Japan. In recognition of his contributions to his country, he was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, one of Japan's highest honors.
In addition to his political career, Hachisuka Mochiaki was also a prominent business leader, serving as the president of several companies, including the Kagawa Bank and the Hiroshima Electric Railway Company. He was also involved in the founding of the Hiroshima Gas Company and played a key role in bringing electricity to the region. Mochiaki was known for his progressive and forward-thinking ideas, and his leadership helped to transform Kagawa and Hiroshima into thriving modern cities. Today, he is remembered as one of the most influential politicians and business leaders of the Meiji period, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations in Japan.
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Shōfu Muramatsu
Shōfu Muramatsu (September 21, 1889 Mori-February 13, 1961 Kamakura) also known as Shôfû Muramatsu or Shofu Muramatsu was a Japanese novelist, screenwriter and writer. He had one child, Muramatsu Takashi.
Muramatsu studied at Keio University but left without graduating to pursue his literary career. His first novel, "A Ruined Aristocrat," was published in 1911 and was well received. He went on to write numerous novels, short stories, and plays, many of which explored the lives of the urban working class and the theme of social justice.
During World War II, Muramatsu wrote propaganda films for the Japanese government. After the war, he was briefly imprisoned by the Allied forces as a suspected war criminal. However, he was released without being charged and resumed his writing career.
Muramatsu is known for his use of colloquial language and frank depictions of sex and violence. His most famous work, "Osaka Story," is a novel that centers around the lives of low-paid laborers and prostitutes in the city of Osaka. He was awarded the prestigious Order of Culture by the Japanese government in 1959.
In addition to his literary career, Muramatsu also worked as a screenwriter, collaborating with prominent filmmakers such as Yasujirō Ozu and Mikio Naruse. Some of his notable screenplays include "The Only Son" (1936) and "Floating Weeds" (1959). Muramatsu was a prolific writer and continued to publish works well into his seventies. He passed away in Kamakura in 1961 at the age of 71. Today, he is remembered as one of the leading writers of the Taishō and Shōwa periods in Japan, and his works remain popular and widely read.
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