My Name is Hiroshi Nohara, Star of Neon Film and Television!

Chapter 274: The Celebration Banquet at a Ginza Ryotei

In the night, Ginza was as brightly lit as a river of stars.

In the courtyard of the top-tier ryotei "Matsubaso," lanterns hung high. The warm yellow light spilled onto the bluestone paths through the paper windows, making the irises filling the courtyard appear even more verdant.

The main hall inside the ryotei, "Matsukaze Hall," had long been properly arranged. Dark-patterned soft cushions were laid over the tatami mats, and the celadon vases in the corners held fresh white chrysanthemums. The air was filled with the mellow aroma of sake and the fresh, sweet scent of Japanese cuisine.

Shimazu Yoshihiro, wearing a navy blue kimono, stood high-spiritedly at the door welcoming guests, his face full of joy that could not be concealed.

He had rushed to the celebration banquet non-stop right after finishing the press conference. Sakata Nobuhiko, Takada Toshihide, and the others following beside him also had glowing faces and radiant spirits.

"Hiroshi-kun, you're finally here!" Seeing Nohara Hiroshi walk in, Shimazu Yoshihiro immediately stepped forward briskly and warmly shook his hand. "You are the top contributor today. If it weren't for you, I wouldn't have been able to win this election!"

Nohara Hiroshi nodded with a smile. The dark suit on his body remained perfectly straight, only a bit more relaxedness between his brows: "Mr. Shimazu is exaggerating. This is the result of the joint efforts of you and the team. I only contributed a meager effort."

"Meager effort?"

Sakata Nobuhiko stepped forward and patted Nohara Hiroshi's shoulder. "Hiroshi-kun, this 'meager effort' of yours was too crucial! From the precise propaganda of the information cocoon, to the pearl-like words of the debate drafts, and finally to the meticulous deployment of the security, which step could have done without you? At today's celebration banquet, you must sit in the seat of honor!"

The crowd echoed in agreement, clustering Nohara Hiroshi towards the seat of honor.Matsui Yuichi, Yamada Takashi, and other people from Kanto TV had also already arrived. Seeing Nohara Hiroshi, they immediately surrounded him.

"Hiroshi-san, congratulations on Mr. Shimazu's election victory!" The stubbornness on Matsui Yuichi's face had long faded, replaced by full admiration. "The 'Ibaraki Lacquerware' project you guided previously has already obtained support funds from the Ministry of Education. Now Kanto TV finally has hope!"

Yamada Takashi also said excitedly: "And the 'Changes of Chiba Fishing Port'—many fishermen have proactively signed up to be interviewees, saying they want to thank Hiroshi-san for letting more people know the stories of the fishing port. Currently, the employees of Kanto TV are holding onto a burst of energy, wanting to work hard following you!"

Nohara Hiroshi replied with a smile: "These are the results of everyone's joint efforts. The foundation of Kanto TV is very good. As long as we find the right direction, it will definitely be able to radiate vitality anew."

While they were speaking, the dishes were served one by one.

The chilled sea bream sashimi was as thin as cicada wings. Dipped in wasabi soy sauce and entering the mouth, the fresh sweetness directly reached the tip of the tongue;

the grilled sea bream skin was crispy and the meat tender, drizzled with special sauce, overflowing with aroma;

there was also steaming kamameshi, the rice grains plump with seafood broth, soft, glutinous, and fragrant.

Shimazu Yoshihiro raised his wine glass, signaling the crowd to be quiet: "Everyone, being able to gather joyously here today to celebrate the election victory could not have been done without the support of every single person. Especially Hiroshi-kun;

his wisdom and foresight not only helped me win the election but also let me see the future of Tokyo City. I propose this first glass of wine be toasted to Hiroshi-kun!"

"Cheers!"

The crowd raised their wine glasses one after another. The crisp and pleasant sound of clinking sake glasses echoed in the hall.

Nohara Hiroshi stood up and bowed slightly: "Thank you, Mr. Shimazu;

thank you, everyone. I only did what I was supposed to do. The true credit belongs to everyone who believes in the concept of placing people's livelihood as the foundation. Going forward, we still need everyone to work hard together to make Tokyo City better."

After downing it in one gulp, the atmosphere in the hall grew increasingly lively.

Kurosawa Eiji, holding a wine glass, walked to Nohara Hiroshi's side, his tone full of emotion: "Hiroshi-kun, I've filmed movies all my life and seen countless talented people, yet I've never seen a young man like you, possessing both talent and a sense of responsibility. You refused to enter politics and chose to remain in the media industry. This original intention is too rare and commendable."

Asano Takata also leaned closer: "Hiroshi-san, what you told me before about 'heartwarming films needing to capture the details,' I've always kept it in my heart. The recently filmed sequel to 'Mother's Bento' has already broken an 18% viewership rating. Many viewers said they saw their own lives in it. This is all thanks to you!"

Nohara Hiroshi smiled and responded: "Senior Kurosawa praises me too much, and Asano-san is being too polite. Film and television creation is inherently a process of mutual learning. I am also very happy to be able to help everyone."

After the wine had circulated three times and five dishes had been tasted, the clamor in the hall gradually subsided slightly.

Shimazu Yoshihiro put down his wine glass. His gaze became solemn. He looked at Nohara Hiroshi, his tone sincere: "Hiroshi-kun, there is an important matter I'd like to discuss with you."

Nohara Hiroshi was stunned for a moment, then nodded: "Please speak, Mr. Shimazu."

"I hope you can come and serve as the head of the Propaganda Department of the Tokyo City Government."

Shimazu Yoshihiro's voice was not loud, yet it clearly spread throughout the entire hall. Everyone instantly quieted down, their gazes focusing on Nohara Hiroshi. "Your talent in propaganda is obvious to all. 'A Bite of Neon' spurred cultural preservation and local economies, and this election campaign accurately grasped the hearts of the people. With you here, I believe Tokyo City's policy propaganda and cultural promotion will definitely yield twice the result with half the effort."

An uproar broke out in the hall. No one expected Shimazu Yoshihiro to extend such an olive branch at the celebration banquet.

The head of the Propaganda Department! This was a core position in the Tokyo City Government, with great power and excellent benefits;

it was an opportunity countless people dreamed of.

Takada Toshihide immediately echoed: "Hiroshi-kun, this is a chance in a thousand years! Mr. Shimazu trusts you so much. If you can serve as the head of the Propaganda Department, you'll be able to fully showcase your abilities in the future, whether it's policy implementation or cultural development!"

Asumi also nodded: "Yes, Hiroshi-kun. With your abilities, you will definitely be able to achieve even greater accomplishments in the government department and help more people."

Matsui Yuichi and Yamada Takashi looked at each other, their faces full of complexity.

They hoped Nohara Hiroshi could have a better career path, yet they also worried that after he left, Kanto TV's revitalization plan would be affected.

Nohara Hiroshi remained silent for a moment. The smile on his face gradually faded, and his gaze became firm.

He stood up and bowed deeply to Shimazu Yoshihiro: "Mr. Shimazu, thank you very much for your trust and profound affection. I am very honored to receive your recognition. But I'm sorry, I cannot accept this invitation."

Everyone was stunned, their faces full of expressions of disbelief.

Shimazu Yoshihiro was also taken aback for a moment, and then asked: "Hiroshi-kun, could you tell me the reason? Do you feel this position does not meet your expectations, or do you have other concerns?"

"Neither."

Nohara Hiroshi shook his head, his tone sincere. "Mr. Shimazu, I greatly admire your concepts and am also willing to contribute my strength to the development of Tokyo City. But my long-standing dream is to cultivate deeply in the film and television industry, to use the camera to record the era and spread culture. Entering politics is not my original intention. I am afraid I would be incapable of handling the job of the head of the Propaganda Department and would fail your trust."

He paused and continued: "Furthermore, Kanto TV is currently at a critical revitalization period. Previously, Kanto TV experienced the predicament of aging equipment and a brain drain. Now, it finally has a direction, has the support of the Ministry of Education, and a group of colleagues willing to work hard. I promised Matsui-san, Yamada-san, and the others that I would breathe life back into Kanto TV with them, and pass on the traditional crafts and cultural stories of the Kanto region to more people through the camera."

Hearing this, Matsui Yuichi's eyes instantly moistened.

He stepped forward and tightly grabbed Nohara Hiroshi's hand: "Hiroshi-san—thank you! We, the people of Kanto TV, will remember your promise, and we will definitely work hard following you!"

Yamada Takashi also said excitedly: "Hiroshi-san, with these words of yours, no matter how bitter or tiring it is, it's worth it! Rest assured, we will definitely carry out the projects like 'Ibaraki Lacquerware' and 'Changes of Chiba Fishing Port' well, and will not let down your expectations!"

Nohara Hiroshi's polite refusal caused the hall to fall into a brief silence.

But very quickly, Sakata Nobuhiko took the lead in applauding, and then applause sounded like a tidal wave, enduring for a long time.

"Good! Well said!"

Sakata Nobuhiko looked at Nohara Hiroshi, his eyes full of admiration. "Hiroshi-kun, that you can stick to your original intention and not be tempted by power and interests—this quality is more precious than any talent! TV Tokyo will always be your backing. Whatever support you need, we will go all out!"

Kurosawa Eiji also nodded in praise: "Hiroshi-kun, you are right. The film and television industry needs talents like you, using the camera lens to convey warmth and using works to influence people's hearts. Sometimes, a good documentary or a good television drama is more capable of moving people and propelling social progress than policy propaganda."

Asano Takata chimed in: "Yes, Hiroshi-san. The 'A Bite of Neon' you filmed led so many people to pay renewed attention to traditional crafts;

the 'Midnight Diner' you filmed let so many people experience the warmth of ordinary life. These impacts cannot be replaced by government positions."

Looking at Nohara Hiroshi, the regret on Shimazu Yoshihiro's face gradually faded, replaced by deep admiration.

He stood up and shook Nohara Hiroshi's hand again: "Hiroshi-kun, I understand. I was too eager for success and ignored your original intention. You are right. Everyone has their own mission;

your mission is to use the camera to record the era and spread culture."

He paused briefly, his tone solemn: "Since you chose to stay at TV Tokyo to breathe life back into Kanto TV, I will fully support you! In the future, regarding the development of Kanto TV, whether it's funds, policies, or matching resources, the Tokyo City Government will provide the greatest support. I believe that under your leadership, Kanto TV will definitely be able to radiate vitality anew and become an important force in spreading Tokyo City's culture and driving economic transformation."

"Thank you very much, Mr. Shimazu!"

Nohara Hiroshi hastily thanked him. "With your support, we are even more confident. My plan is that next Kanto TV will focus on creating the 'Kanto Cultural Inheritance' documentary series. Aside from the already launched 'Ibaraki Lacquerware' and 'Changes of Chiba Fishing Port,' we will also film 'Mie Prefecture Wagashi Making,' 'Yanesen Old Street Visit,' and other projects, so that more people will understand the traditional crafts and cultural stories of the Kanto region."

Matsui Yuichi added: "We also plan to cooperate with Future Comic Club to adapt the stories in the documentaries into manga, to attract more young people to pay attention to traditional culture. Previously, the manga version of Hiroshi-san's 'A Bite of Neon' already had publishers coming to discuss cooperation!"

Yamada Takashi also said: "Regarding advertising as well, there are already quite a few businesses proactively coming to connect, wanting to sponsor our documentaries. 'Asakusaya' Sushi even said they want to jointly launch a 'Traditional Craft Themed Set Meal' with us to drive cultural consumption."

Listening to these plans, a gratified smile appeared on Shimazu Yoshihiro's face: "Excellent! These plans not only align with the concept of cultural revitalization of the city, but can also spur local economies and create employment positions—killing multiple birds with one stone! Hiroshi-kun, you truly did not disappoint me."

He raised his wine glass and signaled the crowd again: "Everyone, I propose a second glass of wine to toast Hiroshi-kun's original intention, Kanto TV's future, and also the beautiful tomorrow of Tokyo City's cultural revitalization and economic transformation!"

"Cheers!" The crowd raised their glasses again. The mellow aroma of sake, mixed with sincere friendship, spread throughout the hall.

Nohara Hiroshi looked at the people before him, his heart full of warmth and determination. He knew his choice was correct.

Entering politics might bring greater power, but staying in the film and television industry, using the camera to convey culture and warm people's hearts, was what he truly wanted.

The path to Kanto TV's revitalization might not be completely smooth sailing, but he had confidence. With Shimazu Yoshihiro's support, and the concerted efforts of his colleagues at TV Tokyo and Kanto TV, he could definitely achieve the goal.

The celebration banquet continued until late into the night. The crowd still felt they hadn't had enough.

Shimazu Yoshihiro pulled Nohara Hiroshi along and chatted about many plans regarding the future of Tokyo City, from youth employment support to affordable housing construction, from cultural industry development to the protection of traditional crafts. Not a single topic could depart from people's livelihood and sustainable development.

"Hiroshi-kun, if you have any good ideas in the future, or if Kanto TV needs any support, tell me at any time."

Shimazu Yoshihiro patted Nohara Hiroshi's shoulder, his tone sincere. "You are not only a genius director at TV Tokyo, but also an important force in Tokyo City's cultural revitalization. I believe the future you will definitely have a broader prospect."

Nohara Hiroshi nodded: "Thank you, Mr. Shimazu. I will also promptly synchronize the development situation of Kanto TV with you. I hope we can work together to make Tokyo City even better."

Sakata Nobuhiko also walked over and said with a smile: "Hiroshi-kun, rest assured regarding TV Tokyo's side. Hashimoto Ichiro, Yamamoto Takeshi, and the rest will all fully cooperate with Kanto TV's projects for you. Equipment upgrades, personnel deployment—as long as you need it, we will prioritize supporting."

"Yes, Hiroshi-san."

Asano Takata leaned over and said, "In the future, I also want my heartwarming films to cooperate more with Kanto TV, incorporating more traditional cultural elements. Let's jointly create works with warmth and depth."

Kurosawa Eiji also smiled and said: "I can also provide guidance to the young directors of Kanto TV, sharing my experience in filming samurai films with them. Combining the traditional with the modern will definitely result in even better works."

Matsui Yuichi and Yamada Takashi were even more thrilled. They pulled Nohara Hiroshi along and chatted about the specific work arrangements for Kanto TV moving forward. From filming plans to personnel deployment, from funding applications to promotional campaigns, every detail was discussed exceptionally seriously.

The night grew deep, and the celebration banquet finally ended.

The crowd walked out of "Matsubaso." The lights of Ginza were still brilliant. Shimazu Yoshihiro shook Nohara Hiroshi's hand and exhorted once again: "Hiroshi-kun, you must stick to your original intention and develop well. The future is promising."

"I will, Mr. Shimazu." Nohara Hiroshi nodded in response.

Matsui Yuichi, Yamada Takashi, and the others also said their goodbyes one after another. Their faces were full of longing, as if they had already seen the day of Kanto TV's revitalization.

Nohara Hiroshi walked alone on the streets of Ginza. The evening breeze brushed past, bringing a trace of coolness, but it couldn't blow away the warmth and determination in his heart.

He looked up at the sky full of stars and thought secretly in his heart: the support of TV Tokyo, the trust of Mr. Shimazu, the expectations of his colleagues at Kanto TV—all these were the driving forces propelling him forward.

He knew that the path to revitalize Kanto TV was a heavy responsibility and a long journey, and the inheritance of traditional crafts also faced numerous challenges. The imminent economic crisis was an even more massive test.

But he was not afraid, because he firmly believed that as long as he stuck to his original intention, settled his mind to create works, and used the camera lens to document reality and convey warmth, he could definitely overcome difficulties and realize his dreams.

By the time he returned to the apartment, the sky was already slightly bright. Nohara Hiroshi opened the door. Koyama Misae had already prepared breakfast, and the aroma of natto rice wafted to his face.

"Hiroshi-kun, is the celebration banquet over?" Misae walked over with a smile and handed him a cup of warm water. "Look at your exhausted face, quickly sit down and rest."

Nohara Hiroshi leaned on the sofa, a relaxed smile appearing on his face: "It's over. Mr. Shimazu won the election. He even invited me to go to the city government and be the head of the Propaganda Department, but I refused."

"Refused?" Misae was stunned for a moment, then smilingly said, "I knew you wouldn't go. You've always liked filming movies and documentaries. Staying in the film and television industry is what suits you best."

Nohara Hiroshi held Misae's hand, his tone firm: "Mm. I want to stay at TV Tokyo, and work together with Matsui-san and the others to breathe life back into Kanto TV, to film the traditional crafts and cultural stories of the Kanto region for more people to see."

Misae nodded her head, her eyes full of support: "I support you. No matter what you do, I will be by your side."

Looking at Misae's gentle smile, Nohara Hiroshi's heart was filled with strength.

He knew that on the road ahead, with the support of his loved one, the help of friends, and his own original intention and persistence, he could definitely walk farther and more steadily.

The dawn of Tokyo was impending, and a new era had already begun.