Yoroku: Actor Keiko Kishi lived life unafraid to 'break eggs' in Japan, France

Japanese actress Keiko Kishi, known for her roles in the film series What is Your Name?, recently passed away at the age of 93. Her autobiography, titled You Can't Eat an Omelette Without Breaking Eggs, reflects her life philosophy. At 24, Kishi became a national sensation, which prompted her to take bold steps. In the following year, she flew to Paris to marry film director Yves Ciampi, who directed the Japan-France co-production Typhoon over Nagasaki.

Their on-set collaboration led to Kishi's white stole headwrap creating a nationwide fashion trend called Machiko-maki.

Kishi's career took her back and forth between Japan and France, securing roles in films from prominent directors. Her relationship with Yasunari Kawabata, a renowned novelist, further enriched her life. Kawabata described Kishi as a young aspiring writer when they first met. They reconnected in Paris during a PEN International Congress, leading to their wedding.

Kawabata later witnessed her union. Kishi's career evolved to include her role as a distinguished essayist and writer, building on the foundation set by her early life experiences.

After their divorce in her 40s, Kishi returned to Japan. Her novel Warinaki Koi, published at the age of 80, became a bestseller. Kishi also became a journalist, reporting on conflict zones such as Iran and Palestine. In the 1950s, her production company Ninjin Club challenged Japan's major film studios, securing better rights for actors.

Kishi's life exemplified her motto of breaking eggs without hesitation. Her essays shared a bold and straightforward tone, as she once expressed, "If I may say so, this humble self, a mere actress at the tail end of her profession, born in Yokohama, where golden and silver waves shimmer, does not put on a show for free."