While being a comedian, he is also a movie director. Torinosaki Bunta, who continues to run in the forefront, turns 70 this year, marking his 40th anniversary in the entertainment industry. His synonymous daytime show, "Hiru kara Bunta!" which had been a regular program for many years, ended five years ago when Torinosaki himself declared it was "retirement age for a salaryman." Then, three years ago, a new show began that seems destined to become another of his hallmarks. That show is "Bunta to Issho." It's a walking program where he strolls across Japan, interweaving trivia about history with experts. The natural and unscripted encounters with local people and shared meals make viewers feel as though they are peeking into Torinosaki's private life.

This time, following the special theme "Walk," we talked about the relationship between Torinosaki Bunta and walking.

"The Walking Program 'Bunta to Issho' is Life Itself"

ーHello, thank you very much for accepting our interview today.

Thank you for coming to interview me. I'm looking forward to what you'll ask.

ーThe theme of our feature is "walking." Mr. Torinosaki, you have been doing the walking program "Bunta to Issho" for about three years. Why did you decide to start a walking program?

I started "Bunta to Issho" because walking is not just a hobby for me, it's life itself. Walking is the perfect speed for thoroughly observing the world around you. The changes in the city, people's lives, the transition of seasons... all these can be felt while walking. I've always loved history, especially the culture and architecture of the Taisho era. So, it's fun to find historical buildings during my walks and talk about the stories associated with those places. I hope to give the viewers an experience like time travel, not just a walk. So, "Bunta to Issho" is more than just a walking program; it's a journey with viewers, weaving through history, culture, and life lessons. Every time, we share new discoveries and emotions, which is truly fulfilling.

ーIt's interesting to hear the background. Do you have any particularly memorable episodes from the past three years?

Yes, many, but one that stands out is a special feature where we strolled through Tokyo's old towns. We talked about the life and culture of old Tokyo while walking through alleys unchanged since the Edo period. For example, we visited an old Taisho-era coffee shop in the back streets of Asakusa. The conversation with the shop owner about the history of the shop and how it has survived through the times was really impactful. Stories like that are living history, not found in textbooks. We also visited buildings from the early Showa period, built during the post-war reconstruction, and old theaters rich in Taisho romance. Conveying the breath of these eras and stories of people who lived there was a great joy for me. Discovering the depth of history through walking is the essence of "Bunta to Issho." Each episode brings new discoveries and growth for me. I believe we offer the viewers more than just a walk.

"The Beauty of Japan that Remains Unchanged Through the Ages"

ーWalking does offer a lot, including "living history." Do you walk in your private life as well?

Yes, of course. Walking is also a time for me to reset my mind in my private life.

Especially, as someone from Kumamoto Prefecture, I love visiting the natural sites and historical landmarks of my hometown. Walking around Kumamoto Castle brings back childhood memories. It's where I nurtured my dream of becoming a comedian, so various emotions come flooding back as I walk.

In Tokyo, I often like walking through the downtown areas. There's an unchanged beauty of Japan and the warmth of old community ties. Walking there, I recall memories with fellow comedians and the ups and downs of my entertainment career.

Walking is not just physical exercise; it's a time to confront deep thoughts and emotions. That's why both walks for the program and private walks are important to me.

ーIt's fascinating to hear how you engage with walking. When you walk privately, do you also spontaneously talk to people like you do on the show?

Yes, I often talk to people even during my private walks. I value encounters with people. Conversations with locals are key to understanding the true charm of an area.

For instance, talking to the elderly in Kumamoto gives me stories about old Kumamoto, which are living history. In Tokyo's downtown, chatting with shop owners and diners provides insights into the area's changes and past stories. These conversations bring a warmth and humanity not found in the entertainment world.

I learn a lot from talking to people. It polishes my skills as a comedian and adds depth to my personality. So, whether it's for the program or privately, I cherish these encounters.

ーHow do people react when they realize they're talking to Torinosaki Bunta?

Ahaha, sometimes they are surprised. Especially those who have seen me on TV often react like, "Is it really Torinosaki Bunta?" But I quickly ease the atmosphere with a little joke. People seem fascinated to see a TV personality in the real world. It's a novel experience for them.

Actually, I also enjoy talking directly to fans and seeing their reactions. Such unexpected encounters sometimes inspire me. So, if you see me on the street, feel free to say hi.

"Walking is about sensing the 'Rhythm of Nature'"

ーIt sounds so approachable! Indeed, your polite responses to questions from schoolchildren on a field trip in "Bunta to Issho" were memorable.

Yes, that was a fun time. The pure curiosity and energy of the children were refreshing. Kids on a school trip have an open view of the world, so answering their questions is always stimulating.

They were initially surprised, but then asked various questions about history, the entertainment world, and my experiences. Children's questions are straightforward, so I try to respond honestly.

Since children are our future, I always try to positively influence them. Plus, talking with them often gives me new perspectives. So, encountering children in "Bunta to Issho" is always a special experience.

ーDo you have any memorable questions from the children?

Yes. Once, during "Bunta to Issho," a student asked me, "Mr. Torinosaki, what was the most important thing for you to become a comedian?" That question made me think.

I told him, "The most important things were passion for making people smile and being true to myself." To succeed as a comedian, it's not enough to be funny; you need something that resonates with people's hearts. And sticking to your style is important.

The child listened seriously to my answer. Children's pure questions provide a good opportunity for self-reflection. So, I always take their questions seriously.

ーResponding to questions can indeed prompt self-reflection. Returning to the topic of walking, besides history, is there anything else you think about or value during your walks?

Yes, there's a lot I think about besides history. What I especially value is "living in the moment." Walking allows me to focus on the present world - the scenery, people's lives, and changes in nature.

During walks, I reflect on recent conversations and people I've met. It's a chance to reassess my actions and thoughts, often leading to new ideas and inspiration.

I also think about my health and happiness. Walking benefits physical and mental health, so I walk at a comfortable pace, mindful of my condition.

Walking is also a time to commune with nature. Feeling the wind of seasonal changes and watching the colors of leaves change helps me connect with nature's rhythm. This is important to maintain a connection with nature amidst busy urban life.

Walking may seem simple, but it's full of discoveries and learning. So, for me, walking is more than a hobby; it's a philosophy of life.