Buddhist Preaching and Travel, with On Swings

Where could a Buddhist preacher travel in medieval Japan, and what did those journeys reveal about the country? Hara Katsurō follows the spread of five Buddhist schools through eastern provinces, mountain barriers, coastal crossings, and the routes leading west from Kyoto. Differences between religious traditions become evidence for roads, sea traffic, and changing centers of influence.

A second essay turns to the swing. Greek myths, Chinese dictionaries, courtly poems, Korean festivals, and Japanese haiku provide clues to the history of a pastime that seems too simple to need an inventor. Hara compares rival origin stories, examines the clothing and movements of participants, and wonders whether a Japanese word might preserve a Portuguese connection.

These two essays by the Japanese historian combine detailed evidence with an alert awareness of its limits. Claims are tested, uncertainty remains visible, and tiny cultural practices open onto wider histories. This complete new English translation includes both supplied works and brief notes on names, classical quotations, and textual difficulties. AI-assisted translation, prepared and edited by Valentin Sarić.