“Who is that?” I hear you ask. That imposing figure is Godai Tomoatsu. He stands tall in front of the Osaka Exchange. This is his statue. The statue commemorates his contribution to Osaka. Godai Tomoatsu has been looked up to by Osaka locals ever since his death.
Godai Tomoatsu was born in Kagoshima Prefecture in 1836. He came from a high-ranking samurai family. As a youth, he worked as a trading merchant in London and Shanghai. These experiences made him an important official. He was in charge of diplomacy for the Meiji government. Later, he was appointed to Osaka.
In feudal times Osaka was Japan’s largest commercial city. But it was on the verge of collapse. Wealthy merchants went bankrupt. This was due to forced cancellation of money lending to feudal lords. This was called ‘daimyo-gashi’.
Godai had connections with higher officials. Most were from Satsuma or Choshu domain. He worked with local business leaders. Together they established government bodies and companies. Thanks to his efforts, Osaka was restored.
After his death, Osaka locals honored him. They erected bronze statues. One stands in front of the Chamber of Commerce. Another is here at the Osaka Exchange. Both institutions were established by him about 150 years ago.
The statue was erected in 2004. This coincided with the completion of the new Osaka Securities Exchange building. It stands at an impressive 7.6 meters tall. Looking up at the statue, you can feel his impact. He greatly contributed to Osaka’s development.
Godai Tomoatsu is considered the father of Osaka. He is remembered as a benefactor. Though few today know his name, his legacy lives on. He dedicated himself to the revival of Osaka. Godai resigned from his government position. He chose to work among the people. He helped reverse Osaka’s decline. Godai died at the young age of 49. His death was a misfortune for Osaka. In his will, he requested to be buried in Osaka. His grave is in the Abeno Cemetery.
The people mourned his death. Even street vendors lamented “Godai is the benefactor of Osaka”. Now you know the story of Godai Tomoatsu. A man who shaped modern Osaka. A man who is still revered today.