Snow on Takeshi Pass and Other Writings

Two travelers set out for Takeshi Pass in winter. Snow forces them back on their first attempt; on their second, they push through deep drifts to a mountain hut. Bessho Umenosuke’s vivid travel essay leads this collection of twelve complete Japanese writings.

Sakai Toshihiko tests the meaning of cosmopolitanism against poverty and war, while Sasaki Toshirō explores a young man’s homesickness. Two complete installments by Kōno Tsunekichi examine the Koro-pok-guru hypothesis through records, artifacts and traditions. Three poems by Imamura Tsuneo bring the fierce language of censorship, labor and revolt.

Complete prefaces by Uemura Tsunekichi and Taguchi Ukichi address naval power and a young writer’s promise. Tsuda Umeko argues for independence and responsibility in women’s education, and Hattori Unokichi introduces Xunzi’s writings and legacy. Both prefaces stand alone; their parent books are not included. Original verse divisions, dates, signatures and embedded explanations accompany this fresh English translation, with notes that preserve historical uncertainties. AI-assisted translation, prepared and edited by Valentin Sarić.