With the arrival of spring, Yukimi Nagano of Gothenburg sheds her layers, referencing the uninhibited feel of the season.
Living and Breathing Gothenburg: Yukimi Nagano's Roots
Gothenburg, Sweden, has been the beating heart of Yukimi Nagano's life and career. Born to a Swedish-American mother and a Japanese father, Gothenburg served as the backdrop to her childhood, and the place where she formed the Grammy-nominated band Little Dragon with her school friends. From Sendai, Japan, to Anaheim Hills, California, Yukimi found her true home in Gothenburg.
Yukimi's love for music blossomed in this city, where she spent much of her childhood exploring record shops and discovering new sounds. One of her favorite hangouts was Bengans, a record shop still thriving in Gothenburg today. The shop features a vast jazz section and hosts shows in the cafeteria area, part of what made it a magnet for creative minds.
The city of Gothenburg has been a breeding ground for various music genres, from indie pop bands to singer-songwriters, and metal bands. Yukimi's childhood dreams were sparked by witnessing the rise of acts like The Knife, Jose González, and El Perro del Mar—all of whom hail from this city. Gothenburg offers abundant opportunities for aspiring musicians, with numerous rehearsal spaces and facilities to learn instruments.
Nefertiti, another music staple in Gothenburg, boasts a classic jazz-club feel and showcases a wide range of genres. Yukimi played some of her first concerts here at the age of 18, and later returned to perform her debut solo album For You, experiencing a full-circle moment. Nefertiti's intimate vibe made audiences feel close to the performers, a quality that resonated deeply with Yukimi.
Swedes may be known for their reserve, but when it comes to music, they let loose. Audience participation during concerts is electric, and Yukimi has felt this energy firsthand during her performances in Gothenburg.
Gothenburg Through Yukimi's Lens
Gothenburg is a cozy city, perfect for leisurely strolls. Its rich maritime history and working-class roots give it a humble charm. The waterfront, with its breathtaking sunsets, gives life to the city. The iconic Gothenburg Opera House, where Little Dragon once collaborated with ballet dancers, sits by the harbor and offers a stunning modern architectural marvel.
Local fashion designers like Kristine Boström and Sylvi Sundkler are pushing the limits of style in Gothenburg. Yukimi, a lover of second-hand and vintage clothing, has found many gems at Myrorna, a second-hand clothing and furniture chain. For healthy eating, Yukimi shops at Fram Ekolivs, a health food cooperative that offers high-quality produce.
The city boasts a number of well-loved museums, such as the Världskulturmuseet (Museum of World Culture), where Yukimi has attended thought-provoking exhibits. The museum offers engaging activities for children, making it a popular family destination. Another favorite spot of Yukimi's is Gothenburg City Library, where her parents met and where she seeks inspiration for her lyrics.
If you listen carefully to Little Dragon's songs, you can hear the gentle hum of Gothenburg's trams in the distance. Yukimi's studio is conveniently located near the central station. When guests visit, she takes them for authentic Swedish meals at popular eateries like Noot and Gaffelkonst.
Embracing the Outdoors in Gothenburg
Yukimi's love for exploring nature has led her to discover the hidden gems around Gothenburg. Cycling is her preferred mode of transportation, and she ventures out, come rain or shine. Härlanda Tjärn, a picturesque lake, offers a tranquil retreat for visitors seeking relaxation. In the winter, a dip in the lake after a sauna session becomes an exhilarating experience. Delsjön, another location close to the city, features two sparkling lakes along with walking trails and charming summerhouses.
Springtime in Gothenburg brings a renewed sense of energy, with the city coming alive under sunlight. The semla, traditional cardamom buns filled with marzipan and cream, can be found everywhere during this season.
Although some aspects of the city have changed over the years, the essence of Gothenburg remains the same: a warm and welcoming community. Yukimi continues to cultivate her music within the embrace of this enchanting city.
BARS, CAFÈS & RESTAURANTS* Caféva (Haga Nygata 5E, 413 01) Gaffelkonst (gaffelkonst.se) Nefertiti (nefertiti.se)* Noot (noot.se)
SHOPPING* Bengans (bengans.com) Fram Ekolivs (framekolivs.se) Kristine Boström (@kristinebostrom) Myrorna (myrorna.se) Sylvi Sundkler (@sylvi_sundkler)
THINGS TO DO* Gothenburg Opera House (opera.se) Gothenburg City Library (Götaplatsen 3, 412 56) Museum of World Culture (varldskulturmuseerna.se)
- Yukimi Nagano, born in Gothenburg, Sweden, discovered her love for music in its record shops, with Bengans being one of her favorites.
- Gothenburg offers a rich landscape for various music genres, having given rise to acts like The Knife, Jose González, and El Perro del Mar, which inspired Yukimi.
- Exploring Gothenburg's fashion scene, Yukimi is a fan of second-hand shopping at Myrorna and supporting local designers like Kristine Boström and Sylvi Sundkler.
- For a taste of local cuisine, visitors can dine at Noot or Gaffelkonst—to which Yukimi often takes her guests.
- Yukimi enjoys cycling around Härlanda Tjärn, a picturesque lake, and Delsjön, another tranquil location near the city, during the changing seasons.
- With the Museum of World Culture, Gothenburg City Library, and the historic Gothenburg Opera House among its attractions, Gothenburg cultivates an educational, intellectual, and artistic lifestyle for its residents and guests alike.
