Last ferry leaves a wake of memoriesーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS
Fairies are an essential part of life in the Stoland Sea, which is dotted with islands. One community in Hiroshima Prefecture has depended on ferry service for 135 years. But this spring, the boat docked for the last time. We see how the beloved ship left fond memories for locals in its wake. On Mici City sits along the coast of Hiroshima in western Japan for over a century. The ferry carried people back and forth to Mukai Shima Island about 250 m offshore. The ride takes 3 minutes one way. The vessel made the round trip 75 times a day, weaving it into the rhythm of daily life. The service began in 1889. More than just a means of transport, it was a source of connection for locals. I feel fortunate that I was able to get to know so many people. The boat had no timetable. It only pulled away when everyone was ready. But over the years, passenger numbers declined as more people used a nearby bridge. Last fall, the ferry operator announced it would end the service. due to the aging of the dock. The news came as a shock to longtime Onomichi resident Wui Ken, who runs a cafe overlooking the crossings. 20 years ago, he returned to this city that was his hometown. I’ve been through a lot in more urban areas. The world has changed so much over the years, but not the ferry. It has run the same way for as long as I can remember. Whenever I see it chugging along, I think maybe I can do the same. After learning the service would be stopping, he began collecting photos and items for an exhibition celebrating its place in the community. The images show how locals over the decades depended on the humble craft. From children doing a field trip on the ferry to the days when wooden boats were used for the service. I feel like I can almost hear the sound of it. The picture brings back the rocking I felt on board. I guess the boat has no place in this day and age. The last day of the ferry. Even though it’s a weekday, about 2,000 people showed up, about five times the usual number. They wanted one last ride to remember. The final ferry began pulling away. [Music] It’s the last bout, but it still feels like another will come again tomorrow. I think it has changed my life, and it will continue to give me strength. Though it no longer streams across the water, the ferry will continue sailing through people’s memories.
A ferry route in Hiroshima Prefecture has helped keep a local community afloat for 135 years. But aging dock facilities mean it’s the end of the line for the service, and its final departure has shown its impact on residents. #japan #hiroshima #travel #tourism
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