5 activities Nanami would have enjoyed in Kuantan, Malaysia, had he survived Jujutsu Kaisen
The demise of Kento Nanami in Jujutsu Kaisen has become a pivotal and emotional moment for fans of the series. Known for his stoic demeanour and compassionate nature, Nanami had endeared himself to viewers over the course of the anime until its latest episode marked the heart-wrenching end of the sorcerer’s journey.
Farewell 'Nanamin'
The latest episode in Jujutsu Kaisen’s ongoing second season unfolded Nanami's tragic demise at the hands of Mahito, in a scene that mirrored the manga but added a moving finish in animating Nanami's imagined last dance on a beach.
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The juxtaposition of Nanami's final thoughts about Malaysia with the intense battle against curses was yet another stroke of directorial excellence that this season has been hailed for with every passing episode.
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Nanami's death not only left a void in the anime but also sparked a tangible and heartfelt response from fans, who sought to immortalise the character's legacy by turning his unfulfilled dream into a reality in Kuantan, Malaysia.
Fans pay tribute
To honour the character and fulfil his unrealised dream, some fans took it upon themselves to create a tangible connection to Nanami's aspirations.
The impact of Nanami's death extended beyond the virtual realm, with fans creating a 'Kento Nanami Memorial Shrine' in Kuantan.
Not stopping at a memorial, some dedicated fans even went further by establishing 'Nanami's House' at the location, symbolising their commitment to honouring the character's memory.
The effort put into these memorials, including a cosplayer paying respects at the beach, highlights the depth of the emotional bond that fans developed with Nanami throughout the series.
In another life...
In a fitting tribute to the beloved character, we compiled a list of ‘could have beens’ had Nanami’s wish to retire to the quaint Malaysian town been fully realised.
Here are a few activities that we think that Nanami may have enjoyed in Kuantan:
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Visiting the Sultan Ahmad Shah State Mosque
Nanami might have found solace in the tranquil atmosphere of the Sultan Ahmad Shah State Mosque. Known for its stunning architecture and serene ambiance, this cultural and religious landmark would have been a place for Nanami to find peace and connect with the local community.
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Attending cultural festivals
Kuantan hosts various cultural festivals and events throughout the year. Nanami, with newfound leisure at his disposal, could have immersed himself in the vibrant local culture by attending events like the Pahang River International Ecotourism Festival or the Sultan of Pahang's Birthday Celebration, experiencing the richness of Malaysian traditions.
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Sampling local delicacies at Tanjung Lumpur
Nanami's retirement in Kuantan would likely have involved indulging in the diverse flavours of Malaysian cuisine. Tanjung Lumpur, known for its seafood, would have been a favourite spot for Nanami to sample local delicacies like ikan bakar (grilled fish) and experience the authentic taste of Kuantan.
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Embracing Kuantan’s scenic beauty
Kuantan is known for its natural beauty, including lush landscapes and scenic views. Nanami, with his appreciation for simplicity and nature, would likely have enjoyed spending time in the picturesque surroundings, whether it be hiking through the jungles or simply sitting and absorbing the beauty of the town's landscapes.
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Solitary beach strolls
Nanami would have relished exploring the picturesque Teluk Chempedak, a popular beach in Kuantan. The golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and surrounding lush greenery would have provided him with the perfect backdrop for his contemplative walks and moments of introspection.
He likely would have relished taking long, solitary strolls along the sandy shores, enjoying the soothing sound of waves and the gentle caress of the sea breeze.
Sayonara Nanami-san.
(Before we go -- Something for Indian JJK fans: Malaysia is allowing visa-free travel for Indian passport holders from December 1. So, if you're missing Nanami a bit too much, you know what to do...)