Kikou Yamata Plaque

Born in Lyon, a fusion of cultures blossomed in the life of Kikou Yamata. The Kikou Yamata Plaque here commemorates her birthplace and the unique heritage she embraced. Kikou Yamata, born in 1897, was the daughter of a Japanese diplomat and a Lyonnaise woman. Her father, Yamada Tadazumi, served as the Japanese consul in Lyon. He had a fascinating history himself, having studied French under Léon Dury and collaborated with Émile Guimet, both in Japan and France. This plaque, placed during the year of Japan in France in 1997-98, reminds us of her Lyonnaise roots. The inscription details her parentage, highlighting her father’s role and her mother’s local origins. Kikou’s life was a bridge between two worlds. She spent her early years in Lyon, then moved to Tokyo with her family in 1908. There, she attended the Sacré-Coeur school and began her writing career. After her father’s death in 1923, she returned to France. She immersed herself in Parisian literary circles, becoming a beloved figure known for her perfect French and insights into Japanese culture. Kikou Yamata became a celebrated author, known for works like “Masako” and “Le Shoji.” She introduced the art of Japanese flower arranging, ikebana, to France. Later, she married the Swiss painter Conrad Meili. Her life took a dramatic turn when she returned to Japan in 1939, just before World War II. During the war, she faced suspicion for her liberal views and spent time in prison. After the war, she returned to France, continuing her writing career and achieving further success with books like “Trois Geishas” and “La Dame de Beauté.” Kikou Yamata’s story, commemorated by this plaque, is one of cultural exchange and resilience. Her literary works explored themes of Japanese history, the strength of Japanese women, and her own dual identity. She became a voice for understanding between East and West, a testament to the power of embracing one’s heritage.