Memories of Mr. Okehazama

Earlier this morning I received news of the passing of local Battle of Okehazama historian Wataru Kajino, who known as Mr.Okehazama.  I have been blessed to known this man.  He knew Okehazama's geography and history better than anybody.  He also studied Nobunaga's career prior to Okehazama.  He was extremely opened minded to different opinions as long you can back it up with facts. 

Example, we argued over Nobunaga's birth place, Shobata or Nagoya Castle.  I stated that Shobata was too close to the border of Mino and dangerous.  Nagoya was safer than Shobata.  I explained to him in military terms and he was impressed.  Finally, he asked me if I had any military experience and I told him I was in the Navy. 

When I told him that if one wants to know the Battle of Okehazama, one must go to both the Arimatsu and Toyoake City battlefields and read Ota Gyuichi's Shincho-ko ki and Oze Hoan's Shinchoki. Again, he was impressed.  He wanted you to explore both sides of the story and then you decide on your own.  He loved free thinking and it also pushed him to work harder.  His father Magosaku had different opinions as well.  He was from the traditional school of the detour surprise attack theory.  Mr.Okehazama knew people have different opinions.  He wanted us to study as much as we can and make up own opinion.

As I ramble on, a funny story I like to share.  Mr. Okehazama fought in China during WW2.  He published a picture book and showed to my dad.  He knew I showed the book to my family.   Mr. Okehazama wanted to know my dad's opinion.  I was somewhat scared because my dad said he looked like little Toj (Tojo). So I told him that you look like Little Tojo in your uniform.  He almost died laughing.  He could not stop. 

One of the first books I received from him was Jimoto no Koro ga Kataru Okehazama Kassen Shimatsuki. This was a book on the Battle of Okehazama on a local point of view.  It was an eye opener for me.  I learned the battle was more complex and how the Kajino, Aoyama, and Nakayama families made Okehazama.  He has done a lot of lectures as well which I was blessed to be a part.  I either sat and listened or I spoke as guest.  I could go on and on by my good friend and colleague.  I miss already.  Mr. Okehazama, you are at different address at the moment.  When we meet in heaven,we will be able to talk about Nobunaga and Okehazama all day.  Love you buddy!

Nobunaga no tame!
Tenka no tame!
Iza Shutsujin!