People at an event in Tokyo have remembered renowned Japanese poet Tanikawa Shuntaro, who died last November at the age of 92.



Known for his keen sense of observation, Tanikawa wrote many poems, including "Two Billion Light-Years of Solitude" and "To Live."



He also translated into Japanese foreign works such as the children's picture book "Swimmy," Mother Goose rhymes and the comic strip "Peanuts."



About 560 people took part in the farewell event on Monday.



Poet Yoshimasu Gozo said in a speech that Tanikawa shed light on people's views of life, death and the afterlife. He also said Tanikawa was not only a genius but an extraordinary person who had a huge impact on his era.



Essayist Agawa Sawako said she remembers calling Tanikawa "Shun-chan" and that he called her "Sawa-chan" in a conversation for a magazine. She added that she feels like Tanikawa is still alive because his books will continue to be read.



Tanikawa's family then read out some of his work, including a poem about one of his grandchildren.



The late poet's writings and belongings were shown during the event.