Reader’s Question:
Who is a celebrity that, even without disguise, would go unnoticed by 20% of the people in a crowd like the one in Shibuya on a Sunday? Specifically, please tell me about someone who would be recognized by fewer than 20 out of 100 people. For example, consider individuals like Ohtani Shohei, Ichiro, Akashiya Sanma, Kitano Takeshi, Wada Akiko,
Asada Mao, Hanyu Yuzuru, Ishiba Prime Minister, Matsuko Deluxe, Egashira 2:50, Beat Kiyoshi, Watanabe Minayo, Yajima Aiya, and Julie (Sawada Kenji).
The Mystery of Celebrities in Crowds
Thinking about the bustling crowd in Shibuya on a Sunday always excites me. Especially the thought that a celebrity might just be walking around there makes my heart race. But how many people actually notice them? Recently, I was discussing this with a friend. He mentioned, “Celebrities often go unnoticed even when they walk around without disguises,” but who specifically falls into that category? I believe Ohtani Shohei and Ichiro would certainly stand out, but on the other hand, someone like Sawada Kenji might not be as well-known among younger generations. Indeed, many might see him and wonder, “Who is that?”
Memories of Sawada Kenji
In fact, I went to a concert with a friend a few years ago. Sawada Kenji’s performance was breathtaking, and his youthful energy was palpable even then. But after the concert, I wondered how many people would actually recognize him if they saw him on the street. At that moment, my friend and I laughed, saying, “If we saw him in Shibuya, there’s no way we would realize that was Sawada Kenji.” For those who don’t know his appearance, he might just look like an ordinary older man. However, for those familiar with his singing and presence, he undoubtedly holds a special significance.
People in the Crowd
The crowd in Shibuya is truly a melting pot of various individuals. You see young people passing by, couples enjoying their time together, and tourists exploring the area. If a celebrity were to walk there casually, who would actually recognize them? Upon reflection, it really depends on the celebrity’s recognition and the generational context. I often pass through Shibuya on my way back from university, but I rarely have the courage to approach anyone in that crowd. It’s a shame to think that a celebrity might be nearby, and yet I might miss them. While grappling with those thoughts, I often end up buying too many sweets on my way home. It’s not that anything special is happening, but those moments bring a sense of fulfillment.
Share Your Experiences
If any of you have had experiences of recognizing a celebrity, or perhaps have stories of times when you weren’t recognized, I’d love to hear about them in the comments. If you have any mysterious events or surprising discoveries in a crowd, please share! Additionally, if you have memories or special experiences from Shibuya, I’d love to hear about those as well!
