A Journey to Chichibu and Other Writings

Following the river that flows past his Tokyo home, Kōda Rohan sets out into Chichibu with a friend who sketches the scenery. Heat, thunderstorms, mountain shrines, a dark cavern, and conversations along the road become occasions for observation, speculation, and delight.

This collection brings together six complete writings. Alongside the Chichibu journey are memories of a boyhood shaped by household duties, classical learning, secret reading, and play. Student Days recalls the spirited rivalries of small private schools. Travel Then and Now asks what is lost when modern conveniences turn a traveler into an honored object passed from hand to hand.

An affectionate portrait of Awashima Kangetsu celebrates books, art, jokes, and a life devoted to personal interests rather than fame. Kegon Falls returns to mountain travel, tracing the meeting of scenery, religious tradition, history, and human conduct around Nikkō.