正岡子規赤羽根土筆摘み歌句碑

Masakazu Toyama’s life was a poignant melody. Here at the 正岡子規赤堤根土筆摘み歌句碑 (Masakazu Toyama Akatsutsumi Tsukushitsukimi Kakuhi) in Shimizu-zaka Park, we celebrate his legacy. Born in 1867, Toyama, later known as Shiki Masaoka, became a literary giant. He championed a new style of short poetry, drawing inspiration from “Manyoshu”. He also critiqued the blind worship of poet Toson Shimazaki and recognized the talent of Kyoshi Takahama. Shiki’s time at his home in Negishi, Tokyo, from 1896 to 1902 was marked by illness. Yet, this period saw the flourishing of his literary genius. The verses etched on this monument come from his notebook, “Gyokusha Manshu”, cherished during his illness. His sister Ritsu would visit him, often sharing stories of her tsukushitsukimi (horsetail gathering) excursions in Akabane. Shiki immortalized these simple moments in his poems. The two waka poems engraved here, written during his illness, reflect Ritsu’s experiences. They also reflect his own longing for simpler times. Shiki Masaoka is buried at the Hongyoji Temple cemetery in Dairyuji, Taendani, Kita-ku, Tokyo. This monument stands as a testament to his enduring spirit. His words continue to resonate, inviting us to appreciate the beauty in everyday life.