Rurouni Kenshin manhole covers installed in manga author’s hometown
A new series of Rurouni Kenshin themed manhole covers have gone on display on the streets of the hometown of the manga series’ author.
To commemorate the 100th anniversary of its sewage system project, Nagaoka City (formerly Koshi Town) has installed three uniquely designed manhole covers featuring characters from the hugely popular manga series “Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story.”
The collaboration is a tribute to the beloved work of manga artist Nobuhiro Watsuki, a native of Nagaoka City.
These special manhole covers, now a part of the Nagaoka scenery, invite residents and visitors to discover them throughout the city.
Visitors to Nagaoka City can find the three manhole covers in the following locations:
- Himura Kenshin Design:
- Located on the sidewalk in front of the Nagaoka City Ote-dori Government Building (2-6 Ote-dori, Nagaoka City). The Kenshin manhole cover offers a view towards Miraie Nagaoka.
- Kamiya Kaoru Design:
- Situated in the parking lot in front of Momiji-en Garden (600 Asahi, Nagaoka City). The Kaoru manhole cover overlooks the scenic Momiji-en Garden.
- Myojin Yahiko & Sagara Sanosuke Design:
- Found on the sidewalk along Teradomari Fish Market Street (Teradomari Aramachi, Nagaoka City). This manhole cover featuring Yahiko and Sanosuke offers a view of the bustling fish market street.
The author of the Rurouni Kenshin series, Nobuhiro Watsuki, expressed his thoughts on the new project in recent comments:
“Congratulations to Nagaoka City’s sewage system project on its 100th anniversary. I would like to express my gratitude to all those involved who have, over this long period, played a part in the flow of water that connects our lives and nature.
When I first heard about this manhole project, I mistakenly thought they would be printed. So, I was doubly delighted to hear that they would be cast. The appeal of manholes lies in their texture, and more than that, if they are cast, the mold will last a long time even if the colors fade with wind and snow. I encourage everyone to visit Nagaoka and enjoy seeing Kenshin and his companions as a part of the city’s landscape.”
Residents and tourists alike are encouraged to explore Nagaoka City and discover these unique tributes to “Rurouni Kenshin” that now adorn its streets.
© Nobuhiro Watsuki/Shueisha
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