Both the men’s and women’s basketball games at the Olympics are being held in the city of Lille, about 200 km north of Paris. Unlike Paris, the atmosphere is more idyllic, and there are photo spots and free play areas inside the venue, so in addition to fans who come to watch the games, there are also many parents and children who come as if it were a local festival.
When I was at a loss as to where to stop the bus at the venue, I was saved by a world-famous Japanese anime. I timidly asked a scary-looking security staff member for advice, and he had tattoos of Son Goku, the main character of “Dragon Ball,” on both of his arms. He answered amiably, “Are you from Japan? I’m a good guy who looks up to Son Goku!” and solved the problem in one fell swoop. I’m glad I’m Japanese.
The influence of Japanese anime is also apparent around Lille station. Entering the bookstore on the premises, there are rows of Japanese manga with dialogue translated into French, including “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba,” “Jujutsu Kaisen,” and “One Piece.” Furthermore, a juice for 2.55 euros (about 423 yen) that I found in a large supermarket next door also had Dragon Ball characters on it…huh? Although it said “GOKU” and “GOHAN” on it, the pictures seemed a little off… These counterfeit goods being sold openly were imported and produced in China. (Yamato Eishu)
Source: Japanese