Kouyou Junior High School

Stepping onto the grounds of Kouyou Junior High School, imagine the young Ozaki Koyo, a literary prodigy in the making. Kouyou Junior High, then known as Tokyofu Daini Junior High School, played a pivotal role in Ozaki’s formative years. While he didn’t graduate, the time he spent here ignited a passion for literature that would shape Japanese literary history. The school, nestled in the vibrant Sugimami ward of Tokyo, offered a rigorous academic environment. Here, Ozaki, under his real name Ozaki Tokutaro, first dipped his toes into the world of essays, haiku, and novels. He even co-founded a literary magazine called “Ken’yūsha” or “Friend of the Ink Stone” while at university. Imagine him, a young student, discussing literature and sharing his early works within these very walls. This experience nurtured his talent and connected him with other aspiring writers. Ozaki’s time at Kouyou Junior High may have been short. Yet, it laid the groundwork for his remarkable career. He went on to become a renowned author. His notable works include “Tajō Takon” (“Tears and Regrets”) and “Konjiki Yasha” (“The Golden Demon”). These stories captivated readers with their exploration of love, loss, and societal pressures. The latter, “Konjiki Yasha,” even became a popular film, further solidifying Ozaki’s place in Japanese cultural history. So, as you stand before Kouyou Junior High School, remember it’s not just a school. It’s a piece of literary history, a place where a young boy’s passion for words blossomed into a legacy that continues to inspire today.