The Japanese teacher receives recognition from the city for his contribution to sport, his values and his role in strengthening cultural ties between Oviedo and Japan.
In an emotional event held in the Plenary Hall of the Oviedo City Council, the judoka master Shu Taira was named Adopted Son of the Citya recognition that celebrates his extraordinary sporting career, his commitment to teaching values through judo and his legacy as a cultural ambassador between Japan and Asturias.
The ceremony, presided over by the mayor Alfredo Cantelibrought together members of the municipal Corporation, family, friends and representatives of Oviedo society. Canteli highlighted that this honor reflects the deep affection and admiration that the city feels for the Japanese master, who arrived in Oviedo in 1967 with the intention of staying only a few months, but who, out of love for his wife Angela and the city, made Oviedo your permanent home.
The legacy of a judo master
Canteli praised the figure of Shu Taira as a pillar of sport in Asturias. “You are, without a doubt, a source of pride for Oviedo and for the people of Oviedo, not only for your sporting success, but also for the values of respect, nobility, humility and sacrifice that you have instilled in generations of judokas,” he stated.
The mayor recalled how Taira promoted judo among women, an innovative gesture ahead of its time. “You taught mixed classes when it was unthinkable, not only in sports, but in society in general. This reflects the firm convictions that you have always defended,” added Canteli, also underlining his role as coach of some of the best Asturian judokas, with successes in national and international championships.
An eternal link with Oviedo
Shu Taira, visibly moved, expressed his gratitude. “Oviedo is my second native country, my beloved city. Here I have lived my best years with my wife Angela, who, although she is no longer with us, I know that she accompanies me from above,” he declared.
The teacher also recalled his arrival in Spain as part of his search for new experiences, without imagining that he would find in Oviedo a community that would welcome him with open arms and become his family.
The tribute of a proud daughter
The event included an emotional speech by Yoko Tairadaughter of the teacher, who highlighted her father’s unconditional respect and support for the dreams of others, including her own as a professional dancer. “Dad taught us to pursue our passions with discipline and love. “He abandoned a promising career in acting to dedicate himself to judo and his family, and he never stopped giving us his support,” he said.
Yoko also thanked Oviedo for the respect and affection shown to her father over the years.
A cultural ambassador between two worlds
The recognition of Shu Taira also highlighted his role in strengthening cultural ties between Oviedo and Japan. “You have represented the best of both worlds, bringing Japanese values and culture to our city. “Your legacy is not only on the tatami, but also in the hearts of everyone who knows you,” said Canteli.
The teacher has left his mark not only as a coach and teacher, but also as the author of books that capture his knowledge and philosophy of life, a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.