Tamaguchi Character Analysis in Pachinko

Tamaguchi, 58 years old, runs a sweet potato farm in the Japanese countryside, living there with his wife and two sisters-in-law. He has grown rich by commanding illegal prices on the yakuza-controlled black market, working for Koh Hansu. Hansu shelters Sunja and her family on Tamaguchi’s farm during the American bombing of Japan.

Tamaguchi Character Timeline in Pachinko

The timeline below shows where the character Tamaguchi appears in Pachinko. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.

Imperialism, Resistance, and Compromise Theme Icon

...next morning, he packs up and leaves. Meanwhile, Changho transports the women and boys to Tamaguchi’s sweet potato farm. Tamaguchi has been growing wealthy by selling his sweet potatoes on the... (full context)

Four months after their arrival on Tamaguchi’s farm, Hansu arrives with Yangjin, who looks frightened, tired, and malnourished. Soon Sunja and Yangjin... (full context)

...nearby building. Hansu’s men finally track him down in the hospital and bring him to Tamaguchi’s farm on an American military truck. Kyunghee drops to her knees beside Yoseb’s stretcher when... (full context)