Maki Goto
Photo by Sponichi
Former Morning Musume member and entertainer Maki Goto (39) will appear as a guest on TBS’s “Life’s Best Restaurant” broadcast on the 16th (11:30 a.m. Saturday). He talked about where he has lived since he was born.
Goto has been living in Edogawa Ward, Tokyo since before he started. “I have lived in Edogawa for 39 years,” he says gently. When MC Koji Kato asked “Gokuraku Tombo”, “Do you go to Ebisu only once?”, he replied, “I don’t go to Ebisu at all from Edogawa Ward. -all the time.”
Commenting on the ward’s appeal: “It’s easy to live there. Many of the grandparents in the neighborhood know me, there are many parks, and there are many candy stores. There are also many schools, so it is easy to raise children. .””I have the impression that it is difficult to get along with neighbors in the center of the city,” he says passionately. “For example, if I feel that I have received something that I will not be able to use, I will ask them to bring it with me and ask me to eat it.”
“When I was a child, I would open the rice cooker and if there was no rice, I would get a bowl of rice and go to the house behind the house,” said Saari. Kato said, “That’s a lie!
When Kato asked, “Don’t you want to leave?”, he replied, “I don’t want to leave. I like land. I like to look at it, or rather, I look at the website and I thought, “This land is available!”” said Goto. “I always dreamed of having a house because it is not as expensive as the city center. I built a house last year,” he said, adding that he built his own house in his beloved hometown last year.
Of the house he built, he said, “There were no electrical outlets in the laundry room, so I was like, “Where can I iron my clothes?” he said with a smile as he revealed an unexpected problem encountered when construction was completed.
“Country” asked Wakako Shimazaki, “Were you working as a PR ambassador?” Goto told Kerori, “I’m not doing anything.” “It’s a waste!” and “What is the Mayor of Edogawa Ward doing!?”, and Goto replied, “Yuzo Gucci lives here, so maybe Gucci is running the business,” making people laugh.
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How can newcomers to Edogawa Ward connect with the local community?
Title: Exploring Edogawa Ward: An Interview with Maki Goto
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Welcome, Maki Goto! Thank you for joining us today. Your appearance on TBS’s “Life’s Best Restaurant” certainly generated a lot of excitement. You shared some fascinating insights about your life in Edogawa Ward. Can you tell us a little about what makes Edogawa special to you?
Maki Goto: Thank you! I’m really glad to be here. Edogawa has been my home since I was born, and it holds a lot of memories for me. What I really love about it is the sense of community. Many of the grandparents in the neighborhood have watched me grow up, and that connection adds a unique warmth to the area.
Interviewer: It’s interesting that you mention community. In a bustling city like Tokyo, how do you feel Edogawa maintains that close-knit vibe?
Maki Goto: Edogawa is often overlooked in favor of more central areas, but that’s part of its charm. Because it’s quieter and residential, people tend to know each other better here. We have beautiful parks and a variety of local businesses, like candy stores, that add to the neighborhood’s character. It’s a great place, especially for families with children, since there are many schools nearby too.
Interviewer: You mentioned that it’s an easy place to raise children. What makes Edogawa particularly family-friendly?
Maki Goto: It’s definitely the combination of community support and facilities. The parks are fantastic for kids to play in, and there are plenty of areas for family activities. Plus, having schools within walking distance makes life so much more convenient. Parents here often help each other out, which makes parenting feel a bit lighter.
Interviewer: That sounds wonderful. However, you humorously mentioned not venturing to Ebisu much. What draws you to stay in Edogawa instead of exploring other regions of Tokyo?
Maki Goto: True! I love the atmosphere here. It feels homey and safe. Of course, I appreciate other areas and their offerings, but I find everything I need in Edogawa. Plus, with my busy schedule, I cherish the tranquility of my neighborhood when I’m not working.
Interviewer: It’s refreshing to hear such a positive perspective on local living. What would you say to someone considering moving to Edogawa?
Maki Goto: I’d say it’s a wonderful decision. The balance of urban life with a peaceful neighborhood feel is hard to come by. You can enjoy the hustle and bustle of Tokyo when you want, but come back to a calming and familiar environment afterward.
Interviewer: Before we wrap up, do you have any favorite local spots that you recommend to newcomers?
Maki Goto: Absolutely! I love the parks for their greenery and play areas. Also, don’t miss the local candy stores—they hold a special place in my heart. They have such a nostalgic feeling for me. Trying the local treats can also be a fun way to connect with the community.
Interviewer: Thank you, Maki! It’s been a pleasure talking to you about Edogawa Ward and your experiences there. Your passion for your hometown is evident and truly inspiring!
Maki Goto: Thank you for having me! I hope more people get to discover the charm of Edogawa!