Pathway to Japanese Literature

Author: Takahama Kyoshi

Preface

This collection was published to commemorate the five hundredth issue of *Hototogisu*; accordingly, it was limited to five hundred haiku.

Speaking from my current preferences, recent haiku should naturally have predominated; however, as there were also poems from older eras that I found difficult to discard—each being of their time—I ultimately took haiku from the three eras of Meiji, Taisho, and Showa in roughly equal measure.

The scope ranged from around Meiji 24–25—when I first began composing haiku—up through Showa 10; that is to say encompassing verses included in *Kunikki* published on November 20，Showa 11．Consequently，haiku composed after this period were omitted from the collection．

Showa 12，May 27

Hototogisu Publishing Office

Takahama Kyoshi

Meiji Era

Spring rain's weight on the clothes rack—garment of love

Meiji 27

Evening shower—
drenched through then leaning
on veranda rails

Meiji 28 (1895): After transferring Shiki from Kobe Hospital to Suma Sanatorium, he remained there for several days.

The wind blows—an air of Buddha graciously arriving.

August 1895: He relocated to Shimototsuka, Koshaku Kyuro.

On August 1, he convened Meisetsu, Gosei, Hekigotō, and Morimori and held a haiku gathering.

Winter drizzle falls—guarding the vacant shrine, the deity’s ginkgo tree.

Meiji 28 (1895)

From the start, love is a trickster—this courtship letter.

Meiji 29 (1896)

Raging waves bite the rocks—

Meiji 29

Entering the sea to be reborn—hazy moon

Meiji 29

Radish flowers

Meiji 29

Both the mountain gate and temple halls—above a cloud of flowers.

Meiji 29 (1896)

The rope rots; knock like a water rail and the door opens.

Meiji 29 (1896)

Gu'an Twelve Scenic Views: Seifūkan Gate

Knock and knock—the water rail remains unpermitted.

Meiji 29 (1896)

Was the Master a melon thief?

Meiji 29 (1896)

Inside the mosquito net—watching the sick person’s mosquito-repelling incense

Meiji 29 (1896)

Through the mosquito net—grieving my mother boiling medicine

Meiji 29 (1896)

A person falls ill—suddenly comes a cicada crying on the wall

Meiji 29 (1896)

Chickens marking lull—wild autumn wind!

Meiji 29 (1896)

Graciously allowed to become a disciple monk—autumn moon

Meiji 29 (1896)

Pine crickets—the study of one who longs.

Meiji 29 (1896)

On the stolen scarecrow’s hat—sudden rain.

Meiji 29 (1896)

New Year's morning—discarded ice in the water basin.

Meiji 31 (1898)

Cutting stone to learn fire-eating—the snake emerges from its hole.

Emerging from the snake hole—Zhou’s realm prevails.

A snake exits its hole—a crow watches.

Meiji 31 (1898)

To the bypath's edge where wisterias abound—emerged.

Meiji 31 (1898)

Hesitatingly—a silkworm refuses its cocoon.

Meiji 31 (1898)

Cooling on the bridge—a flute player surrounded.

Meiji 31, July 22: Since May, owing to my mother's illness, I had been in Matsuyama.
August came.

Stars falling—
within the hedge
the fulling block sounds

Meiji 31 (1898)

Futon-adjusting people
boarded too—
the ferry.

Meiji 31 (1898)

In Shibazuke pickles—how sorrowful to see the tiny fish

Meiji 31 (1898)

Distant ears—
the floating world’s affairs
in winter seclusion

Meiji 31 (1898)

Bush warbler—
without knowing letters,
the song’s essence.

Meiji 32 (1899)

A turtle cries—all fools of the village.

Meiji 32 (1899)

A rose given, a Bible lent—such a woman!

Meiji 32 (1899)

May rain—
the fisherman might be swept away

Meiji 32 (1899)

A bagworm moth cries "Father!"—no mother either.

Meiji 32, September 10: Regular meeting at Negishi-an.

Leaning against Inazuka awhile—journey’s sorrow.

Meiji 32, September 25: Regular meeting at Kyoshi-an.

Attendees: Meisetsu, Hekigotō, Gosei, Bokusui, Bakujin, Chōon, Shijin, Sanshi, Kogan, En'yō, Shindō, Seiran, San'in, Chikushi, Imura, Imamura, Tantan, Kōu.
Rokkotsu, Kōtō, and Hari arrived late.

October 1: Matsuse Seisei arrived in Tokyo and joined the publishing office.

A spring night—
an elbow pillow on the desk

Meiji 33 (1900)

Wet by rain, dried by sun—the banner.

Meiji 33 (1900)

Smoking a pipe—poor at magic tricks in the evening cool.

Meiji 33, July 25: Regular meeting at Kyoshi-an.

Distant mountains sunlit—ah, the withered field.

Meiji 33, November 25: Regular meeting at Kyoshi-an.

A beautiful one—the silken sash of sericulture.

Meiji 34

In the hemp robe—flower-like breasts, a nursing woman.

Meiji 34

Mountain temple’s treasures viewed—a rain of flowers

Meiji 35 (1902)

Baring skin, gathering hair—quince blossoms in the garden

Meiji 35 (1902)

At the water-sprinkled ground—ah, wisteria droplets linger awhile.

Meiji 35?
Or perhaps Meiji 32 or Meiji 34?

Sitting rigidly, sitting upright—guest or host, which is which? On the reed mat.

Meiji 35, July 27: Regular meeting at Kyoshi-an.

On long roots—creeping saxifrage awaits autumn winds.

Meiji 35 (1902): Yokohama Haiku-kai.

September 19 of this year.
Shiki died.

Flower robes not even changed—ah, the theater!

Meiji 36 (1903)

Growing old, giving rice behind people—ah.

Meiji 36, May 25: Regular meeting at Kyoshi-an.
Attendees: Hekigotō, Hekisanzui, Hekidō, Saemon, Suibutsu, Itten et al.

In Kuzu water, the pine wind sheds its dust.

Meiji 36 (1903)

Settai Temple’s bustle—deep within the pines.

Meiji 36 (1903)

Autumn wind—everything within sight becomes haiku.

Meiji 36 (1903)

A friend dug up Dai-kanimo yams and served them hospitably.

Meiji 36 (1903)

A gourd-shaped window—as if no one dwells here.

Meiji 36 (1903)

In meeting ancients through pages—the sound of my wife drawing charcoal.

Meiji 36 (1903)

On tea flowers—the day’s warmth lingers—ah.

Meiji 36

At the slope’s teahouse front—spring water gushes forth.

Meiji 37

At the back mountain—waves of wisteria drape the temple, ah.

Meiji 37, April 25: Regular meeting at Tokujō-in.

Nuns weeping softly together—pickled wasabi.

Meiji 37

An ox hitched to the carriage—the sky—ah, a lesser cuckoo.

Meiji 37, May 25: Regular meeting at Tokujō-in.

Though the ocean’s tides surge—ah, drought.

Meiji 37, June 25: Regular meeting at Tokujō-in.

Exiting the austere Zen gate—kudzu flowers.

Meiji 37

At times plucking summer flowers deep in the valley—ah.

Meiji 37

The autumn storm blows through the devotee's topknot—ah.

Autumn wind—evening cicadas swell and dwindle.

Meiji 37, August 27: Regular meeting at Shibata-cho Beach.
Attendees: Meisetsu, Gyūho, Hekidō, Seisensui, Hekisanzui, Tsutsuji et al.

Seeing the floating nest—satisfied, they paddled back.

When the sickle was taken up—the goosefoot wore sorrow's aspect.

Meiji 38, July 23: Regular meeting at Asakusa Hakusenji Temple.
Attendees: Meisetsu, Hekidō, Hekisanzui, Fukanrō, Kijirō, Hekigotō, Suiha, Matsuhama, Itten et al.
Mosquito-repellent fire—they sat on the veranda talking until departing.

Meiji 38, July 28: Hekisanzui, together with Matsuhama.

A crow enchanted by the bathing woman—ah.

Meiji 38 (1905)

A spider descends to the guest—the grassy inn.

Meiji 38 (1905)

When I swept away the spider—the drum fell—how sorrowful.

Meiji 38 (1905)

Two village lamps in mutual yearning—the crickets' chorus.

Meiji 38 (1905)

Autumn arrived upon the long face of the knowledgeable one.

Meiji 38, August 17: Ōjō, together with Matsuhama.

Holding flowers, I came upon Master’s grave.

Meiji 38, August 21: Kamogai, together with Matsuhama.

The village’s name too was Horyuji—sowing wheat.

Winter mountains where they dip low—Horyuji Temple

Meiji 38, November 26: Regular meeting at Asakusa Hakusenji Temple.

The gathering commences—love faintly hinted through poem cards.

Meiji 39, January 6: New Year’s Gathering.
Mikawa Island Kirakuen.
Attendees: Hekisanzui, Matsuhama, Issei, San’in, Meisetsu, Hekigotō, Otsuji et al.

To the peeping lecher—the grass’s fragrance.

Fragrant grass—
even the black crow
deep purple.

Meiji 39, March 19: Haikai Gathering for Leisure.
First Session.
Small hermitage.
Attendees: Chōi, Tōyōjō, Hekisanzui, Matsuhama, Asachi.

Moreover，this Haikai Gathering for Leisure continued until January 28 of Meiji 40，reaching forty-one sessions.

A frog lights a lantern placed on the grass—ah.

Meiji 39, April 2: Haikai Gathering for Leisure.
Third Session.
Azabu Takeyacho, Ankyokuan (Hekisanzui's residence).

Along the hermit’s hedge—cherry blossom viewing.

Meiji 39 (1906)

Praising the wisteria teahouse wife again and again—the horse handlers gather.

Meiji 39, April 23: Haikai Gathering for Leisure.
Sixth Session.
Beside Ushigome Akagi Shrine, Seifu-tei.

Deutzia blooms—
Buddha too, without prayers,
dwells in seclusion.

Meiji 39, May 7: Haikai Gathering for Leisure.
Eighth Session.
Koishikawa Takada, Akanasu no Ya (Asachian).

Silently remained the earthen steps—flowering briar.

Meiji 39, May 21: Haikai Gathering for Leisure.

Tenth Session.
Small hermitage.

A snail dots the large characters on the gate plaque—ah.

With host and guest engaged in leisurely talk—a snail climbs the bamboo.

Meiji 39, May 30: On the occasion of Ōtani Kuhotsu’s visit during his Hokkaido pilgrimage journey, a small gathering at Hekigotō’s hermitage.
Attendees: Meisetsu, Kuhotsu, Rikuka, Hekigotō, Otsuji, Hekidō, Matsuhama.

Amid hemp fields—seeing one off beneath the moon’s pale light.

Over hemp fields—red lightning struck.

Meiji 39, May 31: Hoshigaoka Saryo Small Gathering.

The holy man’s haikai lamp—a moth drawn to light.

Meiji 39, June 19: Hekigotō Farewell Haiku Gathering.
Hoshigaoka Saryo.

The ink on the child’s hand—how cool—the pine temple.

Meiji 39, June 25: Haikai Gathering for Leisure.

Fourteenth Session.
Shibaura Sea Bathing.

A town falling into decay—bats dart toward people

Meiji 39, July 2: Haikai Gathering for Leisure.
Fifteenth Session.
Shibaura Sea Bathing.

Their summer-thin frames fulfilling duty—the Women’s Association

Meiji 39, July 16: Haikai Gathering for Leisure.
Seventeenth Session.
Shibaura Sea Bathing.

Having turned sixty—a motherless lantern.

Meiji 39

Sending-off fire—
how many Buddhas in Mother’s heart?

Meiji 39

A paulownia leaf—basking in sunlight—has fallen.

A monk far away—a single leaf has fallen on the stone pavement.

Meiji 39, August 27: Haikai Gathering for Leisure.
Twenty-second Session.
Small hermitage.

Autumn fan—the wise wife with a lonely face.

Meiji 39

You and I carving lies—ah, autumn’s dusk.

Loneliness—making a young girl weep—ah, autumn’s dusk.

Meiji 39, September 17: Haikai Gathering for Leisure.
Twenty-fifth Session.
Jūnisō, Bairintei.

The widow beats the alluring fulling block—enamored—passing her days.

Meiji 39, September 24: Haikai Gathering for Leisure.

Twenty-sixth Session.

Small hermitage.

Old cheeks flushing—ah, the unrefined sake.

Meiji 39, October 8: Haikai Gathering for Leisure.

Twenty-eighth Session.

Within Sannō Shrine precincts, Kusumoto Tei.

The autumn sky split in two—the great chinquapin tree.

Meiji 39, October 15: Haikai Gathering for Leisure.
Twenty-ninth Session.
Within Sannō Shrine precincts, Kusumoto Tei.

When it boils—how the turnip soup smells.

Meiji 39

Bush mosquitoes come to sting the old monk’s bones—ah.

Meiji 40

Sake flags high at Koya’s foothills—the sweetfish village.

Meiji 40: Sugamo, Poetic Emaciation Society.
Inside Shinshu University.

At Satodairi, even the old tree’s flowers have begun to bud.

Meiji 41

How clearly visible—the temple atop the foremost peak.

Meiji 41, May 28: Kabumushi-kai.
Fourth Session.
Kangikudō.
Attendees: Kōson, Suiha, Chihaku, Tōyōjō, Matsuhama, Chōi.

Kudzu water was served with pounded rice cakes.

Meiji 41

The horse’s nostrils puff at the stirring spring—ah.

Meiji 41, June 12: Kabumushi-kai.

Fifth Session.
Kangikudō.

On the shore, a fishing person's yawn—boats at play.

Meiji 41, July 30: Kabumushi-kai.
Sixth Session.

The book-drying wind blew fierce; red-bound volumes went flying—Kanehira raged.

A preface lay in the document box—exposed with "Heaven and Earth, Mysterious Yellow."

Meiji 41, August 5: Nichi Seikai.
Fifth Session.
Small hermitage.

Furthermore, this society had opened its first session on August 1 and met nearly daily until August 31.

The attendees at this time were Tōyōjō, Kusan Sui, Matsuhama, Suiha, Dafuku, San’in, Kōson, Bigetsu, Chōi, and others.

Cicadas shrill incessantly—an evening shower falls through the grass, ah.

Meiji 41, August 9: Nichi Seikai.
Ninth Session.
Small hermitage.

The molting chicken clucks—ah, that high-pitched cry.

Meiji 41, August 10: Nichi Seikai.
Tenth Session.

A scarab beetle hurled—how deep the darkness.

Meiji 41, August 11: Nichi Seikai.
Eleventh Session.

The first chill of autumn arrives with a look of surprise.

The grass market—soon, dew on the path to be tread.

Meiji 41, August 14: Kabumushi-kai.

Seventh Session.
Kangikudō.

A chill—
ninety days of thermal cure
the moon over the peak.

Meiji 41, August 17: Nichi Seikai.
Sixteenth Session.

Mid-Autumn—the foremost peak is Atago, ah.

Mid-Autumn—awaiting an imperial decree by the lakeside.

Mid-Autumn envelops the master of a verse—ah.

Meiji 41, August 22: Nichi Seikai.
Twentieth Session.

Throughout the realm, I visited a grave as small as Kyorai’s.
I visited Yoshikimi’s grave, bringing attendants along.
At this grave where the genealogy began—I bowed in prayer.

Meiji 41, August 23: Nichi Seikai.
Twenty-First Session.

The katydid’s flight-sound resembles a shuttle—low, ah.

Meiji 41, August 25: Nichi Seikai.
Twenty-Third Session.

Hands digging potatoes—still caked with dirt, departing for the capital.

Meiji 41, August 27: Nichi Seikai.
Twenty-Fifth Session.

In the garden, fresh voices heard—storm’s aftermath.

Meiji 41, Autumn.
Murakami Seigetsu attends a small gathering.

At Warai-dera—a mass of green basho plants, ah.

Meiji 41, Autumn.
Kabumushi-kai.
Ninth Session.

Taisho Era

If the Buddhas of Three Worlds all sit seated, there will be no cold.
When frost falls, the castle of law makes frost its shield.
The futon lacks strength to kick away the death god—ah.
Day by day this body dies—ah, the futon.

Taisho 2, January 19: Kamakura Kyoshi-an Haiku Gathering.
He remained bedridden.

Even our forebears prized life—this two-day moxa treatment.

Taisho 2, February 10: Ōhirayama Haiku Gathering.
Ōhirayama tea house in the suburbs of Tochigi.

Spring breeze—embracing fighting spirit, I stand on the hill.

Taisho 2, February 11: Mita Haiku Gathering.
Tokyo Shibaura.

Enveloping the great temple—the clamor of tree buds, ah.

Chrysanthemum roots divide, enveloping sword energy—a rounded back.

Taisho 2, February 26: Hanbian-an Occasional Gathering.
Totsuka.

The camellia measures time at the ancient tomb ahead.

Detached leaves float from one root on spring water.

Taisho 2, Spring.
Kyoshi-an Haiku Gathering.

Having picked grasses—today’s field aches as night rain arrives.

Taisho 2

When the boat docks at shore—a single star in the willow.

Taisho 2, March 9: First Revival Session of Hototogisu Publishing Office’s Regular Meeting.
At Shibatamachi Shioyu.

On the wet veranda—fallen blossoms with nowhere to belong, ah.

In the lantern light—windborne falling blossoms appear, ah.

Taisho 2, Spring.

In Kamakura, at Amuson-an.
Together with the hermitage master, Master Sōen, and others.

Rice planting done—along Tokaido, rain-soaked travelers and horses, ah.

Taisho 2, June 1: Kyoshi-an Regular Meeting.

Today too fades—this awkward sunshade—ah.

The old garden—toad, bar the demon's path.

A child chases fireflies—houses draw near—ah.

The house where we slept—fireflies dance joyful—ah.

At the temple where bashō clasp jewel-buds—the master passes—ah.

Taisho 2, July: First Sunday.
Kyoshi-an Regular Meeting.

The moth leaves the candle—host and guest remain.

Light the lamp—swiftly there it flies, the moth.

Taisho 2, July: When Sato Rokukotsu of Fengtian, Yoshino Saemon of Keijo, Watanabe Hisa of Chiba, and Sendan Mokudo of Tokyo visited Kamakura, at Komachi-en.

Autumn rain—
huddled beneath
the umbrella's shelter

Taisho 2, September: Third Sunday.
Shiki Memorial Haiku Gathering.

This autumn wind had me thinking of snow yet to come.

Taisho 2, October 5: With Amemura and Suiha.
Standing on the veranda of Shinshu Kashiwa原 Haikai-ji Temple.

Years made into a giant—walking away

Taisho 2, December: Third Sunday.
Publishing Office Regular Meeting.

The old mountains and rivers greet me, adorned with snow.

Taisho 3, January: Returned to Matsuyama.

Taisho 3, January, the night of the 12th: At Matsuyama Public Hall.

Floating weeds grow heedlessly in the old inlet—ah.

Taisho 3, January 14: He arrives in Kyoto.
He attends the evening haiku gathering at Gion Saami.
Time resolves all things—waiting for spring.

Taisho 3, January 16: Attended the haiku gathering at Osaka Gas Club.
Eighty to ninety participants.
Seisei, Bokusui, Itten, Tsutsuji, Kyokuchi, Tsukimura, Tsuyuishi, Soiseki, Tsukito, Onishi, Oshiro et al.

There remained a lingering cold that startled Kamakura.

Taisho 3, February 1: Kyoshi-an Regular Meeting.

Spring rain—
a handheld lantern slightly aglow

Taisho 3, March: Third Sunday.

Publishing Office Regular Meeting.

My heart sometimes light—poppy flowers.

Taisho 3, May 3: Kyoshi-an Regular Meeting.

A woman keeps her dwelling spotless—this cholera fear.

Cholera ship—how long will you stay moored offshore?

One who left the cholera house comes this way now.

Taisho 3, July 5: Kyoshi-an Regular Meeting.

The spring’s source—one’s sweat turns light.

Taisho 3, July 19: Publishing Office Regular Meeting.

A single stalwart—just come forth / autumn wind

Autumn wind— / utmost strength exhausted entirely

Taisho 3, September 6: Kyoshi-an Regular Meeting.

On the wet veranda—after the rain, a single leaf—ah.

Taisho 3

Spitting out grape seeds—deciding the matter.

The dragonfly has perished—
cockscomb flowers.

Taisho 3, October 18: Publishing Office Regular Meeting.

Calm clouds— / casting too many shadows / on the cedar—ah

Creation already at peak busyness—the cedar stands.

Taisho 4, April 18: Publishing Office Regular Meeting.

A large belly hanging down—eating while naked—ah.

Taisho 4, June 20: Publishing Office Regular Meeting.

A crow flew—and there lay an akebia.

Taisho 4, October 9: Was at Yorozuya in Sanjo Kobashi, Kyoto.
A coastal person from Yamato arrived.
Composed haiku together with Oshiro, Suzue, and Shūsō.

Henceforth—love and enterprise—the water warms.

Taisho 5, February 11: Kōshō Haiku Gathering.
Sannō Shrine Precincts, Kusumoto-tei.
They sent off the Kōshō graduates.

A wheat-straw flute—
blowing the signal
of love at forty.

Love—a matter of men in jinbei,
women in indigo shibori.

Taisho 5, June 11: Publishing Office Regular Meeting.

On the dew-laden trunk—a cicada walks quietly.

Taisho 5, September 10: Shiki Memorial Haiku Gathering.

Into the vast sky—a small bird springs forth again—ah.

Kisogawa—now shine, migratory birds!

Taisho 5, November 6: Observed bird hunting in Ena Nakatsugawa.
At Yojian.
Shimamura Hisashi, Tomioka Shunjiro, Tanaka Shotaro, Seido, Zeroiko, Hajime, Hakuun, and Rakudo were among those accompanying.

Having lost Hashōryū—the narcissus bulbs scatter.

Taisho 5, December 3: Imperial University Haiku Gathering.
Taisho 5, December 9: Natsume Sōseki passed away.

The ladle of dark soup—what fled with it?

Taisho 5, December 28: Kōshō Haiku Gathering Dark Soup Gathering.
Fuyōkyo.

At Katsuragi—the divine offering hastened, treading lush green.

Taisho 6, February 10: Stopped in Sakai while returning home.
Attended the Sakai Haiku Meeting hosted by Hakuchō Ginsha.
Together with Hakuun, Hakugetsu, Tsutsuji, Hamabito, Hajime, Kuhonta, Gekuto, Itten, Baishi, Ohakoshi, and others.

Kerria rain—there at Sōshin Hall

Taisho 6, April 15: National Haiku Gathering.
Edogawa Riverside, Seifūtei Pavilion.

Spring water—
sturdy and tall,
the iris buds

Taisho 6, April 22: Spring Season Composition Excursion.
In the vehicle upon arriving at Ota Tsumuma.

Thatched with sweet flags—how desolate Moto-Yoshiwara appears

Taisho 6, May 3: Imperial University Haiku Gathering.
Nezu Gongen Precincts, Gorakuen.

A big toad at the fore; a small one steps high behind.

Taisho 6, May 8: Women's Haiku Gathering.

Seiran Chōri

To become a human official—even the elegant cucumber bends as well.

Taisho 6, May 12: Kyoko held a small gathering with Seiran, Enson, Sojinkan, and others.

Tsurumi Kagetsuen’s greenery.

The snake flees—
the eyes that saw me linger
in the grass.

Taisho 6, May 13: Publishing Office Regular Meeting.
On the 16th, Sakamoto Shihōta and Nakagawa Shimei passed away on the same day.

The reed door unlatched—the ceaseless spill of water’s sound

Taisho 6: At a certain traditional restaurant.

Inspecting the fish weirs—whistling—the high peaks clear.

Taisho 6, June 10: Publishing Office Regular Meeting.

If I stand beneath this pine tree—I am dew.

Taisho 6, October 15: During my homecoming, I sojourned beneath Kazahaya Yanagihara Nishi.
Beneath Kazahaya Nishi lay the place where I had resided in my hometown from age one to eight.
Houses stood empty; only the Daishido Hall on the great river's embankment remained.
Beside that hall stood an old pine tree.

Under the Milky Way—Emperor Tenji and Kyoshi...

Taisho 6, October 18: He arrived at Chikuzen Dazaifu.
That same night, he lingered at the Tofuro Ruins.

Nostalgic reflection.

Autumn lamplight reveals—every Buddha becomes Kannon Bodhisattva.

Taisho 6, October 18: He paid a visit to Kannon-ji Temple.

Gathering chestnuts without knowing under which tree

Taisho 6, October 19: At Fukuoka Second Public Hall.

This morning too at the bonfire—talk of Jesus.

Taisho 7?
Or perhaps Taisho 6?

The old monk at the kotatsu—

In the rain—the light of Risshun Daikichi

Taisho 7, February 10: Publishing Office Regular Meeting.
Attendees: Kyoto's Ōjō, Tokorozawa's Haishōsei, Aomine, Yogiku, Issui, Uba, Shigeru, Shōkai, Shūun, Mizuho, Shimoyama, Imasara, Takeshi, Tessuzu, Toshiwo, Kohyō, Yagyū, Sekitei.

Holding them onto the swing—kissing the shoes.

Taisho 7, April 16: Women's Haiku Gathering.
Oak tree—a woman dwells.

Returning from burning the fields—under the lamp, Mother gentle.

Taisho 7?
Or perhaps seven years prior.

Probing the plum, he offered a few words to the ailing old nun.

Taisho 7?
Or perhaps seven years prior.

Yellow kerria—birds came and left amidst green hues.

Taisho 7?
Or perhaps it was seven years prior.

Loaded onto a boat—peonies crossing the lake, ah.

Taisho 7?
Or perhaps seven years prior.

Treading through summer grass—the sense of rain dwells within someone.

In summer grass—descending to strike a snake, two crows.

Taisho 7?
Or perhaps seven years prior.

Under the summer moon, the plate’s apple loses its redness.

Taisho 7, July 8: Small gathering at Kyoshi-an.
Akutagawa Ryūnosuke, Kume Santei, and others came and composed haiku together.

Upon boarding the ship—the land’s mood lingers in late autumn.

The Noh mask’s faded clarity—late autumn’s decline

Taisho 7

Under the autumn sky—a wild chrysanthemum lacks petals.

Taisho 7, October 21: Kobe Mainichi Haiku Gathering.

A few companions—hearts drizzling into closeness.

Taisho 7, October 22: Sakai Haiku Gathering.
On this day, stayed overnight at Itten-an.

Lost sight of—the autumn midday mosquito’s faint trace.

Taisho 7

Cutting irises—a single leaf floating far away

Taisho 8: The members of the Women's Haiku Association came to Kamakura.

At the Hajime Residence.

The hat cord streaming down a summer-thinned cheek

Taisho 8

Strike a mukade—it crumbles into fragments.

Taisho 8

The napping wife doesn’t scold—the petty trade.

Taisho 8

Fanning—your flattery too passes muster.

I came to resent the fan of the one who pointed at me.

Taisho 8

Tilting stoutly—the rainy season’s stone basin

Taisho 8

Evening horse mackerel—my wife haggles over the price as gourd flowers bloom.

Taisho 8

Someone chilled from sleep / looks sullenly at me

Taisho 8

The lingering heat finally yields—bush clover dew.

Taisho 8

Behind the mountain—the fulling block’s moon discovered.

Taisho 8

Winter Emperor first casts the sun—Komagatake

January of Taisho 9: Visited Arutoshi in Otaru—hospitalized at Otaru Hospital with erysipelas—and departed on the return journey on the 31st.
Aboard the Seikan Ferry.

At wisteria roots—cat and snake grapple eerily.

May 10, Taisho 9: Kyoto University Third Higher School Haiku Gathering.
Kyoto Maruyama Park, Akebono-ro.

With a heavy thud I loosen my summer sash—urge you to inscribe verses upon it.

Taisho 9, May 16: Women's Haiku Association.

The doll still lives without moving—the puppeteer.

Taisho 10, January 11: New Year Women's Haiku Association.
Kanaonna-an.
Last October, having suffered a minor cerebral hemorrhage, he attended his first haiku gathering after the illness.

Melting snow’s droplets brushing against each other—a futon drying.

Taisho 10

Mold on thick brocade—catchfly

A new hat hung—the moldy inn

Taisho 10

Moon of new coolness—cling to the cedar pillar!

Taisho 11, August 31: Kawasaki Haiku Association’s New Coolness Haiku Gathering.
Daishi-in Shoseien Garden.
Attendees: Meisetsu, Rakuten, Ontei, Fura, Yachō, Fūsei, Tōkōshi, and others.

Beneath the sunshade, pine needles were born.

Taisho 12, June 28: Farewell Haiku Gathering for Fūsei’s Departure to Europe hosted by Tokyo University Haiku Association.
Publisher.

Hakugun, while in Tokyo, attended.

At the gate, a child chases fireflies—the traveler’s inn.

Late June, Taisho 12

Taking rice seedlings—the water at hand trembles slightly

At the hat's edge—scurrying to take and bundle rice seedlings

Carrying a rice seedling basket, the monk walks along the path

Rice seedling baskets shouldered—they run through the rain

Taisho 12: Totsuka Haiku Gathering.

One person chases three companions of the moon—how solitary.

October 22, Taisho 12: Visited Hakuun-kyo in Tanba Takeda.
The Thirteenth Night of the Ninth Month by the old calendar: clear yet thick with fog.
With Hakugetsu and Noburo, went out and walked along the rice field path.
Shirakawa came late.

The shifting sunlight darkens—tadpole water.

Taisho 13

Spring rain passing by—received an umbrella.

Taisho 13

Palm flowers spill—swept for five or six days.

Taisho 13, May 13: Publisher’s Regular Meeting.

The old shrine priest beats his drum—the festival.

Taisho 13, May 19: Publisher’s Regular Meeting.

In the evening cool, all the pond’s duckweed stirs.

Taisho 13

The sound of a mosquito entering—a single whine inside the net.

Taisho 13, June

A large moon hangs upon the wind chime.

Taisho 13, July 27: Shimamura Gen First Anniversary Memorial Haiku Gathering (died August 26 last year).
Visited the grave at Myohonji Temple and arrived at the Shimamura residence.

At the waning of Emperor Yan’s might—they sprinkle water.

Enduring the heat—with parents present—they sprinkle water.

Taisho 13, July 28: Publisher’s Regular Meeting.

Moon-bathed—jewels crumble away at the fountain, ah!

Taisho 13, August

Autumn mosquitoes persist—the temple’s stern observance.

Taisho 13: En route to Korea-Manchuria, October 14 in Heijo.
Attended the haiku gathering at Kachō Women's Academy.
Seishutsu, Hōeirō, Numahinjo, and others came.
Niraki, Tōkōshi, Uoi, and others accompanied me.

Fluttering down from deep above—the falling leaves, ah!

Taisho 13, October 31: On the return from the Korea-Manchuria trip, arrived at Ryojun.

At the Shinshigai Chitose Club.

The waterfowl’s midnight wingbeats—oh, how many times!

November, Taisho 13: Kiyohara Kaidō came to the capital for a chance meeting.

Publisher’s Office.

North wind—the Russian quarter paved with stones.

November 30, Taisho 13: Welcome Haiku Gathering for the Return from the Korea-Manchuria Trip.
Ueno Kasan-tei.
Those who gathered: Ontei, Sekitei, Kijirō, Hanamino, Shūōshi, Seison, Takeshi, and others.

Mourning Sakaino Bai Meeting Her End by Her Child’s Hand

In Amida’s hand—parent and child together, a returning flower

Taisho 13

My age at death— / a memento left behind: / my wife and I.

December 29, Taisho 13: Together with the members and judges.
At the publisher’s office.
Those who gathered: Rokkotsu, Rakudō, Sokkotsu, Sekitei, Ontei, Yōkyoku, Kin’u, Yachō, Seihō, Tameyama, Takeshi, Hanamino, Shūōshi, Issui.

The wall where “baba baka” was scrawled—dried winter vegetables.

A lit window of dried winter vegetables—could they be spinning?

Exiting the temple kitchen—behind the storehouse, the winter mountain.

Taisho 14, January 16: Publisher’s Regular Meeting.
Osaka’s Kikoku, Niigata’s Kon’ya, Mizūho, along with Meisetsu, Ontei, and others.

Treading barley—

Taisho 14, January 27: Nakata Mizuho’s Farewell Haiku Gathering for Her Departure to Europe.
Publisher’s Office.
By chance, E came to the gathering.

In spring chill—drawing close as we walk—there were prying eyes.

Taisho 14, February

Off to pick herbs—a Man'yōshū man, ah!

A child picking herbs—

Taisho 14, March

Spring night—
in the pillar’s shadow,
Shōnagon

Taisho 14, March

White peony—though named as such,
a faint blush of red.

Entrusting to rain and wind—
mourning the peony.

May 17, Taisho 14: In Osaka.
Daily Haiku Convention.
Eight hundred attendees.

A racehorse idles alone; the match does not begin.

May 22, Taisho 14: Stayed overnight in Dogo.
At a certain club in Sanbanchō Alley, Matsuyama.

The grave lives on, not welcoming me—after such absence.

Taisho 14, May 26: Stayed in Matsuyama.
He visited the grave with an old friend.
The old monk scolded the snake and chased it away.

Taisho 14, June (July?)

Rouge applied—fixing a face pale from sleeping cold.

Taisho 14, June (July?)

A fan bearing a beauty's image held by an elder master—ah.

Taisho 14, June (July?)

My voice blown away and heard—wild autumn wind, ah.

Taisho 14, October

My parents through the long night—reverently present, I imagine.

Taisho 14, October

If I stand still, fallen leaves whisper in the sunlight.

Taisho 14, November

Temporarily wearing a woman’s haori—tamagozake.

Taisho 15, January

Long-cherished aspiration—ah, the butterbur sprout.

Taisho 15, February: The former widow brings butterbur sprouts.

Old camellia petals scatter thickly—ah, the years.

Taisho 15, February 13: A small welcome gathering for Tamura Kikoku’s arrival in Tokyo.
Publisher’s Office.

Taisho 15, February 20: Naitō Meisetsu passes away.

Bush warbler—serenely in the daytime haze.

Taisho 15, February (March?)

Press an ear against the trunk of the great budding tree.

Taisho 15, March 16: Publisher’s Office regular meeting.

The sole person mooring the boat—evening primrose.

June 23, Taisho 15: Publisher’s Office regular meeting.

The moon through the old mosquito net sleeps interestingly.

Taisho 15, June

At another waterfall deeper within—a zigzag path.

July 12, Taisho 15: Publisher’s Office regular meeting.

Under the bridge—all gaze up at the cool boat.

July, Taisho 15

Old book's characters alive and crawling—fireflies?
A dignified monk swats at fireflies with his fan.

July, Taisho 15

Clear water hidden in grass—concealing lustrous pearls, ah.

August 5, Taisho 15: Publisher’s Office regular meeting.

Garden stones nearly stirring—welling clear water, ah.

Taisho 15, August

Trellis gourds have emerged in the first storm.

Taisho 15, September 7: Tokyo University Haiku Gathering.
Publisher’s Office.

Rain and wind—how they torment the bush clover most

Taisho 15, September

Does my own old age find favor? Standing among chrysanthemums.

Taisho 15, 10th (11th?) Month

Leaves on the roof—left to accumulate, left to fall.

Slowly sweeping—fallen leaves follow the broom.

Taisho 15, November

The first-swept broom begins to blend with the earth.

Taisho 15, December

A winter tree stretches and tilts into the vast sky—ah.

Taisho 15, December 21: Tokyo University Haiku Gathering.
Publisher’s Office.

Showa Era

On the brush tips—a ferryboat glimpses the village fire, ah.

Showa 2, January

Pond in the thicket—winter crucian carp, no rush to fish.

Showa 2, January 20: Publisher’s Office regular meeting.

January 31: The second son, Ikenuchi Tomojirō, embarked from Yokohama aboard the Hakozakimaru to study in France.

Smiling to myself as I aid my old self—treading upon fresh greenery.

Spring greenery—only old stone steps remain.

February 28, Showa 2: Publisher’s Office regular meeting.

Tree buds press upon me—Mount Hō.

March, Showa 2

In the nest, the bee’s helmet moves visibly.

A bee roars and falls—crawling angrily upon the earth.

March 17, Showa 2: Casual haiku composition with Rokkotsu, Tameou, and Rakudou.
Publisher’s Office.

The emergence of sprouts—what a momentous event!

March, Showa 2

Held thus against spring rain—an umbrella? People of old.

The very name of the spring mountain holds such charm—Takagamine.

A single falling petal seen off in quiet—

As Kihara whispers—tree buds, ah.

April, Showa 2: Stay in Kyoto.
At Kōetsu-ji Temple.

A lizard plays, stretching through the dense sunlight—ah.

May 15, Showa 2: Mizuho Return to Japan Welcome Haiku Gathering.
Publisher’s Office.

Nara's morning—the hundred officials changed their robes.

Showa 2, May

Dressed in serge—no trace of illness shows, ah.

Showa 2, May

The cormorant-fishing viewing boat assumes twilight's guise.

June, Showa 2: Commissioned as a selection committee member for the Eight Views of Japan campaign organized by the Osaka Mainichi and Tokyo Nichinichi Shimbunsha, he traveled to Gifu Prefecture to inspect candidate sites and observed the cormorant fishing on the Nagara River.

Crumbling, the elderly nun handles her fan—ah.

Showa 2: Elderly Gathering.

Through pines windswept—the water strider’s sudden stir.

Showa 2, July

Longed-for iris water’s whereabouts—ah.

Leaning together in quiet—ah, the Japanese irises.

Showa 2, July

A great evening shower seemed imminent—Yufu's roiling clouds.

July 1927: Commissioned by the Osaka Mainichi and Tokyo Nichinichi newspapers, he arrived in Beppu to write an article about its selection as one of the Eight Views of Japan.

Within the sea—the lives of creatures like jellyfish, ah.

August 4, Showa 2: Farewell haiku gathering at Tokyo University for Seizaburo’s transfer to Fukuoka.
Marunouchi, Chikuyotei.

Sunburned from haikai travels—ah, you!

August 8, Showa 2: A small gathering at the Publisher’s Office for Kaidō’s departure to Tokyo.

The path to Mount Hō teaches this way.

August 11, Showa 2 (1927): Went to Mount Koya to attend a lecture meeting sponsored by Kaizosha.

The late moon departs the mountain—such darkness, ah.

August 16, Showa 2 (1927), evening.
He arrived in Kyoto and saw the Daimonji at Kamo Embankment.

When there is serenity—the moon appears on its own.

September 1927: A banquet hosted by Chief Justice Yokota prior to his retirement.

Kamakura

Under the autumn sky—waves exist, graves exist.

September 19, Showa 2: Shiki Memorial Haiku Gathering.
Tabata Dairyu-ji Temple.

Mid-Autumn—
the moon shines brightly
as one grows old.

September, Showa 2

About to begin—people coming and going at the dance grounds.

October, Showa 2

Morning cold chases away old age—morning after morning.

October 23, Showa 2: Publisher’s Office Regular Meeting.
Hakuun attended the gathering.
Attendees numbered one hundred people.

Yarihago—the Kyoto dialect flows like oil.

Higashiyama quietly—the shuttlecock dances down.

Showa 2, December

Mother sticks holly and draws near.

Showa 3, February

Spring water continues to shine among the grasses.

April 7, Showa 3 (1928): Women’s Haiku Gathering.

In both palms, scooping up and spilling—tadpole-laden water.

April 1928: Shippōkai.
Botanical garden.

The passerby turns to the wind of falling petals.

April 15, Showa 3 (1928): Publisher’s Office Regular Meeting.

Late-blooming cherries still sought the inner shrine.

Crossing memory’s river—once more, a rain of flowers.

April 23, Showa 3 (1928): Together with Hakuun, Hakugetsu, Ōjō, Hiko, and Michiyo, he visited Kurama Kibune for leisure.

The riverboat creaks and turns sharply—ah, the splendid sparrow!

June, Showa 3 (1928)

Sisters—in the wheat-straw basket, Japanese plums.

July 14, Showa 3 (1928): Women’s Haiku Gathering.

New coolness—lighting a lamp reverently for Buddha.

September 16, Showa 3: Shiki Memorial Haiku Gathering.
Dairyu-ji Temple.
On the 18th, Ishii Rogetsu passed away.

The moonlit port of hometown—merely passing through.

A vibrant cloud drapes over the moon’s visage.

The pomelo of the southern land where I have come—

October 7, Showa 3 (1928): He attended the Second Kansai Haiku Conference at Fukuoka City Public Hall.
Attendees: four hundred.
Seizaburō, Zenjibō, Yorie, Hisajo, Shizunojo, Hakugetsu, Ōjō, Noburo, Tōkōshi, and others.

Barefoot island men on lava

October 10, Showa 3 (1928): He traveled to Satsuma and visited Sakurajima.

The dew of chinquapin trees falls, wrapping the seven-layered grave.

October, Showa 3 (1928): Visit to Akama Shrine.

Shading one's hand—a Gion pilgrimage under autumn sunshine.

October 16, Showa 3 (1928): He strolled through the grounds of Chion-in Temple with Hakugetsu.
He attended the Kyoto University Third High School Haiku Meeting held at Yoshida Town Gakuyu Hall.

Eating edamame evokes Rainy Moon's essence.

October 19, Showa 3 (1928): Mokubokukai.
Osaka Club.

Upon the traveler’s hat—tree nuts keep falling.

October 20, Showa 3 (1928): He visited Otokoyama in Yawata with Hakugetsu and Ōjō, then proceeded to Osaka.
Attended the Mumeikai at Sumitomo Club.

In Omurota field—a scarecrow in monk’s robes.

October 23, Showa 3 (1928): At the residence of Mr. Ishii, father-in-law of Oka Yasuyuki, in Rakusai.

Avoiding a step—the grasshopper's face comes into view.

October, Showa 3 (1928)

In the autumn wind—a single blade of grass trembles.

The swiftness of radish leaves flowing downstream—

November 10, Showa 3 (1928): Poetic excursion at Kuhonbutsu.

A cold wind—someone brings a hearth.

December, Showa 3 (1928)

Slowly the waterfowl advance / shore pines

January, Showa 4 (1929)

Wishing to leave this village—burning the ridges.

February, Showa 4 (1929)

A horsefly falls—thrashing releases the clove’s fragrance.

March 18, Showa 4 (1929): Publisher’s Regular Meeting.

Spring water—someone wading through from behind

April 1, Showa 4 (1929): He was in Kyoto accompanied by Tatsuko and visited Kōetsu-ji Temple together with Hakugetsu, Ōjō, Tōichi, Hanmizu, Keijurō, Namikawa, and Nagashi.
Shūōshi also came.

Closing my eyes—my youthful self persists within the spring night.

April, Showa 4 (1929)

The waters of Ōseki weir churned by rowing—flower-viewing boats.

April 8, Showa 4 (1929): He hired a boat upstream from Togetsu Bridge and ascended the river.

In the old city, willow catkins fly incessantly.

May 14, Showa 4 (1929): He departed on a journey to Manchuria.
Egawa Sanmai Tōdō.
May 27, Showa 4 (1929): He arrived in Liaoyang.

Evening shower—
a single carriage emerges from the woods.

June 3, Showa 4 (1929): He reached Harbin in one day.
He stayed until the 8th.

A landed fly—
even chasing it away
is just too drowsy.

June 11, Showa 4 (1929): Pyongyang, O-Maki’s Teahouse.

Short night—a traveler’s inn near Russian lands.

June 27, Showa 4 (1929): Old People’s Association.
Rokkotsu, Mine Seiran, Rakuten, Rakuhakukyo, Rakudō, Tameō, and others attended.

Managing my ailing body—cooling off at the gate.

July 16, Showa 4 (1929): Yasuda Haiku Gathering.

A stone too—one among dewy things.

August 19, Showa 4 (1929): Fūsei was appointed Electric Bureau Director; Kyōdō returned to Japan; a celebratory gathering was held.
At that very moment, the Graf Zeppelin arrived.

Bush tassels quivering—

October 10, Showa 4 (1929): Shippōkai.
At Takashi-an in Jōmyō-ji Temple, Kamakura.

Losing at sugoroku to the children—the springtime of old age.

January 5, Showa 5 (1930): Kamakura Haiku Gathering.
Gokurakuji Temple, Jusui-an.

Gently glimmering—sunlight rests on treetops—frosty morning

January 19, Showa 5 (1930): Publisher’s Regular Meeting.

A bookmark placed—the Sankashū lies on Saigyō’s death anniversary.

March 13, Showa 5 (1930): Shippōkai.
Publisher’s Office.

When I speak of spring tides—Moji always comes to mind.

March, Showa 5 (1930)

A small spider quivers—hollyhock.

June 27, Showa 5 (1930): Kamakura Haiku Gathering.
Kōotsui.
Night: firefly hunting at Shōfukuji Yato.

A graffiti face looms large / on the rainy season wall

June 29, Showa 5 (1930): Tamamo Haiku Gathering.

Mashimo Residence.

A horsefly that entered swells the hosta flower
Blazing sky—how beautiful Koyasan

July 13, Showa 5 (1930): Asahikawa, Nabehira Asomi and others visited Koyasan.

In the dark—
the moment of dressing—
nakedness

July 24, Showa 5 (1930): Tokyo University Haiku Gathering.

Swatting the spider—my mind won’t settle.

August 1, Showa 5 (1930): Family Haiku Gathering.

Having spoken—the night felt drenched with dew.

August 26, Showa 5 (1930): Kamakura Haiku Gathering.
Takashi-an.

Autumn mountain—
brushing past oak,
parting bamboo grass

September 30, Showa 5 (1930): Second Musashino Excursion.
Yokoyama in Tama.

A pencil-written memo to Jotan

December 8, Showa 5 (1930): Sasanari-kai.

From the east spring comes—the plum I planted.

January 17, Showa 6 (1931): Banquet at Shiika-an.

The sedge fire burns even weaker than the reed fire.

January 18, Showa 6 (1931): Musashino Excursion.
Edo River.

Restlessly striking the wooden fish drum—snow-covered temple.

February 12, Showa 6 (1931): Shippōkai.
Kamakura, Takashi-an.

Reserved like Dai Shiken Mountain it sat.

February 13, Showa 6 (1931): Tokyo University Haiku Gathering.
Maru Building Assembly Room.

The butterbur sprout's tongue flees—bitterness lingering.

February 20, Showa 6 (1931): Family Haiku Gathering.
Publisher’s Office.

The red plum's trunk through which crimson flows must be.

March 12, Showa 6 (1931): Shippōkai.
Hayama, Suichikukyo Villa.

Beneath the lizard—teeming insects of Insects Awaken.

March 13, Showa 6 (1931): Tokyo University Haiku Gathering.

The Tosa Diary held close—cherry blossoms scatter.

April 2, Showa 6 (1931): Arrived by ship in Tosa Province’s Kochi.
Visited the site of Ki no Tsurayuki’s residence in Kokubun Village.

The nurseryman’s half-dug single plum tree.

April 17, Showa 6: Family Haiku Gathering.

Yaguchi Village, Nitta Shrine.

In river waves—the kerria's reflection clarifies itself.

April 22, Showa 6 (1931): Marunouchi Hall.
He taught Kanze Sōemon a haiku for the first time.

Transplanting rice seedlings—water rippling gently beneath the conical hat.

May 16, Showa 6 (1931): Marunouchi Club Haiku Gathering.
First Session.

The stone basin thoroughly drenched—ah, sitting at the edge.

June 16, Showa 6 (1931): Minazuki-kai Grand Meeting.
Yasuda Bank.

Pulling weeds—a displaced mosquito bites.

June 18, Showa 6 (1931): Marunouchi Club Haiku Gathering.

The birth name of Hida is called the noble Hototogisu.

June 24, Showa 6 (1931): At Kamikochi Onsen Hotel.
When one hears the young maidservant's name—they call it Touto.
At Hi no Yama's base—a summer hat waves farewell

June 24, Showa 6 (1931): Descent.
Touto escorted up until Mount Yakedake’s base.
The evening glow grew deeper still upon the drifting algae.

July 19, Showa 6 (1931): Musashino Excursion.
Furitone.

A large moth came—the lamp insects thrown into turmoil, ah.

August 14, Showa 6 (1931): Tokyo University Haiku Gathering.

The spider’s thread has wrung ganpi flowers dry

September 6, Showa 6 (1931): Musashino Excursion.
Shinobu visited Kawashima Kihoku’s residence and enjoyed leisure at Ootone.

My star burns on—this starry moonlit night.

September 17, Showa 6 (1931): Marunouchi Club Haiku Gathering.

Autumn wind steadily roughens the reed plain.

September 18, Showa 6 (1931): Family Haiku Gathering.
Haneda Anamori Coast haiku composition outing.

Mid-autumn—
might I visit the continent again?

October 9, Showa 6 (1931): Tokyo University Haiku Gathering.
Maru Building assembly hall.

Sinking deep into the first tide—the four-cornered net, ah.

October 22, Showa 6 (1931): Marunouchi Club Haiku Gathering.

Autumn wind—among the students, an island girl.

October 23, Showa 6 (1931): Kamakura Haiku Gathering.
Enoshima Kinkirō.

The children of Urayasu are naked—reed flowers.

November 1, Showa 6 (1931): Musashino Excursion.
Urayasu haiku composition outing.

Propped up with nothing around—a hamaya arrow, ah.

November 6, Showa 6 (1931): For the Weekly Asahi New Year's issue.

The sake runs thin—at least heat it thoroughly.
Those who wailed have faded into the past—the Meiji Festival.

November 13, Showa 6 (1931): Tokyo University Haiku Gathering.
Maru Building assembly hall.

First cock's crow—
the mountain clematis begins to stir

November 14, Showa 6 (1931): At the request of the Newspaper Union Special Communications Department.

Droopingly, the wisteria leaves kept falling without end.

November 15, Showa 6 (1931): Futako Tamagawa haiku composition outing.
Yanagiya rest stop.

At the temple's umbrella tea shop—a passing winter shower.

November 19, Showa 6 (1931): Marunouchi Club Haiku Gathering.

A molting bird thinned its frame and dashed away.

December 2, Showa 6 (1931):

The hawk's eye does not turn toward the person standing still.

December 11, Showa 6 (1931): Tokyo University Haiku Gathering.
Maru Building assembly hall.
The charcoal container rested unfixed at the seat’s right side.

December 14, Showa 6 (1931): Sasanare-kai Gathering.
Maru Building assembly hall.

Daffodils—the cover torn from old Kotokai.

January 28, Showa 7 (1932): Marunouchi Club Haiku Gathering.

Spring waters flow steadily, returning again here.

February 7, Showa 7 (1932): Musashino Excursion.
Kinuta Village, Ōaza Okamoto, Aza Shimoyama: Iwasaki Villa.

Budding grass—the whole earth solemnly imposing.

February 8, Showa 7 (1932): Sasanare-kai Gathering.
Maru Building assembly hall.

Windy day—the wheat-treading ultimately remained uncompleted.

February 13, Showa 7 (1932): Ogikubo, Women's University Haiku Gathering.

For the monastic scholar—a plum moon; cats' love.

February 22, Showa 7 (1932): Nazuna-kai Haiku Gathering.

A spider bursts into flame—burning the grass.

My heart grows gradually joyful—burning grass.

March 24, Showa 7 (1932): Marunouchi Club Haiku Gathering.

Hemmed in by falling cherry blossoms—the Noh chant lingers.

April 12, Showa 7 (1932): At the Ishida Inn in Kyoto.
Abe and Watsuji came and performed two Noh chants.

The mountain temple, without even its ancient manuscripts, lies tranquil.

April 16, Showa 7 (1932): Tombo-kai Gathering.
Nishiyama Jurinji haiku composition outing.

The karmic connection—undeniably in full bloom.

Rōseiho stands apart alone and smiles beneath the blossoms.

April 19, Showa 7 (1932): Mukuge-kai Gathering.
Osaka Club.

Swallows flying leisurely—what is their intent?

May 7, Showa 7 (1932): Suichikukyo Celebration.
Yotsugi Yoshinoen.

A great circle is drawn on the spring beach.

May 9, Showa 7 (1932): Sasanare-kai Gathering.
Katase Nishihama, Yasuoka Villa.

In summer grass—
a yellow fish caught

June 5, Showa 7 (1932): Musashino Excursion.

Shakujii, Sanpoji Pond.

Becoming that moment oneself—angling for dropwort.

June 21, Showa 7 (1932): Minazuki-kai Gathering.
Marunouchi, Yasuda Bank.

By the irises at Haruna Lake’s edge—a camp stool, ah.

July 31, Showa 7 (1932): Visited Ikaho and reached Haruna Lake.

Carp swallowing falling petals—frolicking about with long whiskers.

September 4, Showa 7 (1932): Musashino Excursion.
Minami-Haijima, in front of Hiyoshi Shrine.

Night school progressed with the teacher’s voice remaining low.

September 10, Showa 7 (1932): Sazanka 10th Anniversary Commemorative Conference and Kengai (Assigned Theme).

I was bitten by autumn mosquitoes at Yakumo’s former residence.

October 8, Showa 7 (1932): Izumo Matsue.
Visited Yakumo's former residence.

Autumn wind—a sudden chill at Wakeno-chaya.

October 9，Showa 7 (1932): Depart Matsue and head toward Daisen.
Climb Daisen Mountain.
Under the late-rising moon—I request leave.

October 19, Showa 7 (1932): Sagano Haiku Composition Outing.
Nijo, Kyotoko.

In mountain mist -
a small village becomes people.

Faces drawing near, people talking in the evening mist—ah.

October 20, Showa 7 (1932): Mukuge-kai Gathering.
Osaka Club.

Large and small tree fruits are compared to people.

November 14, Showa 7 (1932): Sasanare-kai Gathering
Maru Building assembly room

Inscribed a mid-autumn poem on the first-calligraphy jar

January 1, Showa 8 (1933): Lay bedridden at Kamakura residence.
Saraai Asahikawa visited and drew a jar design at the bedside.

The shuttlecock struck high in stillness—who could it be?

January 9, Showa 8 (1933): Sasanare-kai Gathering.

Maru Building assembly room.

The scarf-wearing fox’s face exists apart.

January 12, Showa 8 (1933): Shippō-kai Gathering.
At Shōin-sha.

Hibiya Park.

Someone sneezed repeatedly, their dignified composure crumbling away.

January 21, Showa 8 (1933): Katei Haiku-kai Gathering.

The frozen butterfly chases its own soul as it flies.

January 26, Showa 8 (1933): Marunouchi Club Haiku Gathering.

Melting snow’s whispers grow abundant in the small bamboo grass field.

January 27, Showa 8 (1933): Kamakura Haiku Gathering.

The red plum's bud stays firm—voiceless.

February 22, Showa 8 (1933): Special Haiku Gathering.
At the publisher’s office.

From the duck’s beak—
spring mud trickles steadily down.

March 3, Showa 8 (1933): Katei Haiku-kai Gathering.
Yokohama, Sankeien Garden.

The kobushi magnolia buds stand in a row, as if setting out.

March 30, Showa 8 (1933): Shippō-kai Gathering.

Aoi Residence.

If one were a god, how truly beautiful Nachi Falls would be.

They touched their temples and chanted sacred songs to the flowers.

April 10, Showa 8 (1933): Traveled through Nanki.
Tōōko Tōdō.
Nachi Falls.
Seiganto-ji Temple.

A bush warbler—even the imperial palanquin must have slackened its pace.

April 12, Showa 8 (1933): Arrived at Tanabe via Nakahechi.
Nakahechi nostalgia.

Observing the Day of the Rat—how I long for people of old.

April 19, Showa 8 (1933): Went to Nakamura Kichiemon’s villa at Ōiso Ipponmatsu.
In the garden said to be designed by Yasuda Yukihiko, there were many young pine trees that gave the impression of an ancient painting.

A rainbow forms; the rain flees away across the vast plain.

May 25, Showa 8 (1933): Marunouchi Club Haiku Gathering.

Birds chirping— / ceaselessly two or three scatter and fly.

June 13, Showa 8 (1933): Hokkaido Asahikawa Haiku Convention with Set Topics.

A girl in yukata—her bosom not yet high.

July 12, Showa 8 (1933): Ōsaki-kai Gathering.
Publisher.

A woman dwells within the sound of wind chimes.

July 24, Showa 8 (1933): Tamamo Haiku Gathering.
Maru Building assembly room.

The ship cool, wrapped in its own smoke.

August 16, Showa 8 (1933): Departure for Hokkaido.
Aoi, Tachiko, Tomojirō, Kusatao, Yumeka, Ōbashiko, and Kiguni traveled together.
On August 17, they were aboard the Seikan Ferry Matsumae Maru.

All alight to view Kitami Fuji—autumn of travel.

August 21, Showa 8 (1933): Rubeshibe Station.
That night, they stayed at Yamaura Ryokan by Lake Akan.

The bus arrives—where a rainbow stands over the lakeside village.

Boats at play on the lake at the volcano's foot.

August 22, Showa 8 (1933): Lake Akan.
This night: Teshikaga, stay at Aoki Ryokan.

The lighthouse lies low; the foghorn stands tall.

August 23, Showa 8 (1933): Kushiro Port.
This night: Kushiro Port, stayed at Omiya.

A single strand of cigarette smoke—night studies.

September 29, Showa 8 (1933): Sōju-kai Gathering.
Gakushikaikan.

Katōshū’s prosperous farmer—how long the night is!

October 1, Showa 8 (1933): Held Musashino Excursion Gathering.
Visited Hitachi Kashima Shrine.

Swiftly time passes—autumn rain.

October 8, Showa 8 (1933): Haiku Gathering at Tōōko’s new residence in Den-en-chōfu.

Autumn butterfly—its yellow has faded to white.

October 23, Showa 8 (1933): Tamamo Haiku Gathering.
Maru Building assembly room.

Face held close,
the dog sleeps—
chrysanthemum inn.

November 3, Showa 8 (1933): Household Haiku Gathering.
Kamakura, Kyoshi-an.

Measuring one's back with a ruler—even this took time as days grew short.

No sooner had they arrived than preparations to depart began—the days shortening.

November 19, Showa 8 (1933): Publisher's Regular Meeting.
Maru Building assembly room.

To those arriving—I depart by the charity kettle.

November 27, Showa 8 (1933): Marunouchi Club Haiku Gathering.

At rice gruel—weakness endured, yet laughter came.

December 8, Showa 8 (1933): Sōju-kai Gathering.
Maru Building assembly room.

Roasted sweet potatoes spill—countryside Genji!

December 10, Showa 8 (1933): Sasanaikai Gathering.
Maru Building assembly room.

White clouds and winter trees—ultimately unrelated

December 15, Showa 8 (1933): Household Haiku Gathering.
Shibuya, Aoi Residence.
Peeking at the hidden house—Hina dolls have been decorated.

February 26, Showa 9 (1934): Tamamo Haiku Gathering.
Maru Building assembly room.

White clouds rise and vanish—flower rain.

April 13, Showa 9 (1934): While in Osaka—due to an invitation to an outdoor bath—he arrived late last night at Arashiyama’s Hananoya.
Ōi River boat excursion.
This night: Ishida Ryokan stay.

A three-room hermitage of four-and-a-half tatami mats—dianthus blooms.

April 14, Showa 9 (1934): Tombo-kai Gathering.
Arrived at Iwakura Jissōji.
Iwakura Lord’s Ruins.

Amidst busy work, raising my head—I lament spring’s passing.

April 29, Showa 9 (1934): Publisher’s Regular Meeting.
Maru Building assembly room.

Artificial rain made to fall—blown upward, erupting.

June 9, Showa 9 (1934): Suichikukyo Invitation Banquet.

Tanaka household.

The barmaid arrives—filthier than fireflies.

June 11, Showa 9 (1934): Ōsaki-kai.
Maru Building assembly room.

Each poppy with its seedpod—cloud peaks.

June 15, Showa 9 (1934): Household Haiku Gathering.
Koishikawa Botanical Gardens.

The jewel beetle flew away, leaving its light behind.

July 23, Showa 9 (1934): Tamamo Haiku Gathering.
Maru Building assembly room.

Into cold rice water—miso dropped, clouding it.

July 26, Showa 9 (1934): Marunouchi Club Haiku Gathering.

A black swallowtail comes to alight on the dianthus.

July 27, Showa 9 (1934): Kamakura Haiku Gathering.
Inamuragasaki, Inamura-i.

Somehow feeling close to others—the season’s first storm.

August 23, Showa 9 (1934): Marunouchi Club Haiku Gathering.

Last night’s storm—did most harm to the bush clover

September 11, Showa 9 (1934): Hakone, Minami Sansō Villa.

Something immense passes through—the stormy wind!

An ancient moon exists—the dance knows no stillness.

September 21, Showa 9 (1934): Household Haiku Gathering.
Kamakura, Tsurugaoka Hachimangū tower gate.
Stormy wind blew.

In the extra edition: A typhoon struck the Keihan region—Osaka Tennō-ji’s tower collapsed.

Arranged tree nuts—I pondered my child’s heart.

October 22, Showa 9 (1934): Tamamo Haiku Gathering.
Maru Building assembly room.

Autumn wind—what smoke is it that seeps into the thicket?

October 27, Showa 9 (1934): Kamakura Haiku Gathering.
Takashi-an.

Looking at the river—the banana peel falls from my hand.

November 4, Showa 9 (1934): Musashino Sanshō-kai (Scenic Exploration Gathering).
Hamacho, Nihonbashi Club.

They who make bonfires are not ones to merely decay away.

November 12, Showa 9 (1934): Ōsaki-kai.
Maru Building assembly room.

Near the gods—great paper lanterns / at first shrine visit.

Showa 10, January 1: Predawn.
Meiji Shrine: First Visit.

The miko dance permitted by the deity—divine spring.

Divine will now blesses doves—first shrine visit.

Showa 10, January 1: Afternoon.
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: First Shrine Visit.

Yabuiri holiday—ah, the brightness of the countryside moon!

January 10, Showa 10 (1935): Second Dōjinkai Meeting.
Akabanebashi, Shuntai Ryō.

Family homes' hollyhock crests—the hina festival display.

March 3, Showa 10 (1935): Musashino Scenic Exploration Gathering.
Azabu Hiroo, Baron Kondo’s residence: Doll Festival.

Knowing one but ignorant of two—thus I graduate.

March 12, Showa 10: Sasanaikai.
Maru Building assembly room.

Spring soil yields to the gardener’s fingers.

April 4, Showa 10: Mizūho Welcome Gathering.
Hyakkaen.

The camellia sways first—spring wind shows its hand.

April 20, Showa 10 (1935): Aohi 60th Birthday Celebration.
Hyakkaen.

Until the ship departs—Hanakuma’s hazy moon.

April 24, Showa 10: Hansui Reception Banquet.
Kobe Hanakuma, Ginshōtei.

By the roadside—an Awa pilgrim's grave: ah.

April 25, Showa 10 (1935): Viewed the haiku monument at Kazahaya Nishi no Shita and visited Kashima.
Matsuyama, Mokutei-tei.

Matsuyama Hototogisu Gathering.

Wisteria hanging down—tonight’s boat too would find no waves.

April 26, Showa 10 (1935): Ishite-ji, Waku-ga-fuchi Haiku Composition Outing.
Toyosaka-machi Kame no I.
This night: Kobe boat excursion.

Travel bags packed away—time for flowers.

April 29, Showa 10 (1935): Maiko, Mankame-ro.

At Akishino—Buddha among milk vetch ridges.

Nara chahan being prepared—in that interval, wisteria flowers.

May 1, Showa 10 (1935): Attended the Osaka Tamamo Haiku Gathering with Tatsuko.
Behind Todaiji Temple, Nara: Hogon-in.

Swallows repeatedly chirping and flying—the Ōi River.

May 2, Showa 10 (1935): Kyoto, Arashiyama: Hana no Ie (Flower House).
With Tatsuko.

When you leave the green shade—bright indeed, the poppy.

June 13, Showa 10 (1935): Shippōkai.
Koishikawa Botanical Gardens.

The oar’s sound—gentle yet deep—oh reed warbler.

June 24, Showa 10 (1935): Tamamo Haiku Gathering.
Maru Building assembly room.

The wind blew fiercely—an emaciated man in summer haori.

June 28, Showa 10 (1935): Kamakura Haiku Gathering.
Kamakura Mountain.

Water strider steps upon the water where fish and turtles dwell.

July 11, Showa 10 (1935): Shippōkai.
Inokashira Park teashop.

A mountain butterfly flies—the inn’s yukata dries.

August 5, Showa 10 (1935): Hakone, Matsuzakaya.
A group of thirteen people.

Cawing loud and long—winter crows.

December 12, Showa 10 (1935): Shippōkai.
Memorial service for Mr. Matsumoto Chō.
Shinobazu Pond’s Ugetsu-sō.

The shuttlecock’s white purity lingers in the vast sky.

December 13, Showa 10 (1935): Sōjūkai.
Maru Building assembly room.

Kannon draws near—a New Year's Eve visit.

December 31, Showa 10 (1935): Asakusa Kannon Temple.