Amidst the modern skyscrapers and neon lights of Tokyo, an ancient mode of transportation has made an unexpected resurgence, and with a contemporary twist. Yuka Akimoto, a young rickshaw puller, can often be seen energetically dashing through Tokyo’s streets, even under the unforgiving heat of the summer sun. Behind her, the relaxed chatter and exclamations of wonder from tourists, especially from those not accustomed to such traditional modes of sightseeing, punctuate the ambiance.
On one such afternoon, two French tourists, entranced by the picturesque sights of Tokyo, sat comfortably in Akimoto’s black, two-wheeled cart. As their 45-minute journey concluded, a clearly fatigued Akimoto, with sweat streaming down her face, demonstrated the exemplary Japanese culture of respect and service. She bowed deeply, extending a cloth-covered blistered hand to ensure the couple descended from the rickshaw with ease.
Akimoto is not the typical face one would associate with rickshaw pulling, a historically male-dominated profession in Tokyo. Yet, she, along with several other young women, has embraced the challenging career, an intriguing narrative that owes much of its genesis to the powerful allure of social media. Many of these pioneering female rickshaw pullers have garnered a significant fanbase, both locally and from overseas.
Reflecting on her initial days, Akimoto remarked, “I won’t pretend that it wasn’t a daunting challenge initially.” Given her non-athletic background, the prospect of maneuvering a rickshaw, which can weigh a substantial 250 kg (551 lb), felt almost Sisyphean. “The cart’s weight felt almost insurmountable in the beginning,” she added.
Fast forward to the present, Akimoto’s fervor for her unique profession is palpable. The zest with which she speaks of her job gives away her passion. “I am committed to continuing in this role for as long as my physical strength permits,” she asserts. An emblematic tag she wears around her neck, proclaiming, “I don’t want to give up,” epitomizes her spirit.
Akimoto’s entry into the world of rickshaw pulling is a tale of serendipity, shaped by unforeseen circumstances. She had initially set her eyes on a role at Tokyo Disneyland. However, the global pandemic disrupted those plans, leading her to Tokyo Rickshaw, a prominent company in the bustling Asakusa tourist area. Today, the firm boasts that about one-third of its 90 pullers are women. Their stance is progressive, with an open invitation to more female enthusiasts to join the fray.
Ryuta Nishio, the President of Tokyo Rickshaw, recalls the first female puller who joined their ranks. “She was an embodiment of cool,” he reminisces. Recognizing the potential appeal, the company began sharing videos of her on social platforms. The ripple effect was immediate and profound. “Numerous young women, inspired by her, have since become part of our family,” Nishio said.
For Nishio, this is only the beginning. He envisions a future for Tokyo Rickshaw where gender inclusivity is not just a buzzword, but a core tenet. “Our ambition is to foster an environment where women not only feel at home but are also empowered to take on pivotal roles,” he emphasized.
The evolving narrative of rickshaw pulling in Tokyo is a testament to the enduring spirit of tradition, melded seamlessly with modernity and progressive values. Young women like Akimoto are not just preserving an age-old tradition but are also reshaping societal expectations, one rickshaw ride at a time.
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