Squid seller's call still sounds in HakodateーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

The video highlights the cultural significance of squid as a traditional breakfast item in Hakodate, Japan, where it is freshly caught and consumed in the morning. The story follows 82-year-old Kawamura Yoshimi, a squid seller who has been operating a truck for 40 years, selling "flying squid" (a type of Japanese squid) at 1,800 yen (approximately $12) per unit. His daily routine begins at 4:30 a.m., with his family praying for business success. The seller’s calls, which are distinctive and used to attract customers, have become a cherished part of the community, though they face declining demand due to changing consumer habits and environmental factors like snowfall. Kawamura has reduced the volume of his calls and cut back on his presence, citing concerns about health and well-being, but he remains committed to preserving the tradition. The video emphasizes the personal connection between the seller and customers, who often engage in conversations beyond just buying squid. The narrative underscores the tension between preserving a cultural practice and adapting to modern challenges, with the seller’s determination to keep the custom alive despite the difficulties.