#Japan #Tokyo # #National Archives #Ise Monogatari #Basho

Travelers Head East: A Journey Through Classical Literature

The National Archives of Japan, located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, will host a special summer exhibition titled "Travelers Head East: Enchanting Eastern Japan as Depicted in Classical Literature" from July 17 to September 23. This exhibition invites visitors to immerse themselves in the allure of Eastern Japan as portrayed in various classical literary works.

During the exhibition period, visitors can enjoy extended hours on Fridays, remaining open until 8 PM. Whether you're wrapping up a day at work or heading out for a night on the town, the exhibition promises to be an enriching experience that shouldn't be missed.

Highlights of the Exhibition

Historically, Eastern Japan was largely uncharted territory for the people of the capital, from ancient to medieval times. The captivating landscapes of this region were vividly captured in the "Takashima chapter" of the Ise Monogatari, which likely left readers in awe. As a result, travelers set out for the East, inspired by the works of Ise Monogatari, forging a vital part of Japan’s classical literature history.

This exhibition will trace the footsteps of those who ventured into Eastern Japan, showcasing the waka, kan poetry, tales, travelogues, and other literary pieces they left behind. Visitors will get the chance to explore the rich literary heritage that maps the journeys and aspirations of these early travelers.

Featured Literary Works:

1. Ise Monogatari (The Tales of Ise)
- Thought to be compiled in the early Heian period, this narrative centers on a character based on Ariwara no Narihira. It includes roughly 125 sections, depicting his adventures and romantic escapades, primarily through the medium of waka poetry. The chapter "Takashima downwards" illustrates the protagonist lamenting his perceived uselessness in the capital and yearning for a new beginning in the east.

2. Sanka Shinchuushu (Collection of Heartfelt Poems)
- This collection features selected poems penned by Saigyo during his later years. Upon reaching the Shirakawa no Seki (now in Fukushima Prefecture), he reflects on a previous visitor, Noin, composing poetry inspired by the memories of this location.

3. Bashō Ōe Eshiden (The Tale of Bashō)
- A painting scroll dedicated to renowned poet Matsuo Bashō commemorating the 100th anniversary of his death. It visually narrates his life, illustrating the Bashō-an, a cottage where he resided for some time, located near the Mannenbashi bridge in modern-day Koto, Tokyo.

Guided Exhibition Talks

The exhibition will also feature guided talks where the exhibition planners will highlight the key aspects of the showcased art and literature.

Schedule of Talks:

• - First Session: July 30, 2023 (Thursday)
• - Second Session: August 4, 2023 (Tuesday)
• - Third Session: September 16, 2023 (Wednesday)

Each session will start at 10:30 AM and last approximately 40 minutes. Due to heatstroke prevention measures, the starting times have been adjusted.

Location of the Talks:

• - National Archives of Japan, Tokyo Main Building, 4th Floor Conference Room (Kita-no-Maru Park, Chiyoda)

Participation Details:

• - Fee: Free of charge
• - Capacity: 40 persons per session (Reservation required, first-come-first-served basis)
• - Application Deadlines:

- First session: By July 28, 2023, 5 PM
- Second session: By July 31, 2023, 5 PM
- Third session: By September 14, 2023, 5 PM
For more information on the application process, please visit the official National Archives website: National Archives Exhibition.

Evening Gallery Talks

Apart from daytime events, evening gallery talks are also organized for those seeking flexibility.

Evening Talk Schedule:

• - First Session: July 31, 2023 (Friday)
• - Second Session: August 21, 2023 (Friday)
• - Third Session: September 11, 2023 (Friday)

Each session starts at 6:30 PM and lasts about 30 minutes.

Location for Evening Talks:

• - National Archives of Japan, Tokyo Main Building, 1st Floor Exhibition Hall (Kita-no-Maru Park, Chiyoda)

Participation Details:

• - Fee: Free, no pre-registration required. Attendees are encouraged to gather at the entrance by 6:30 PM on the day of the event.

For more detailed information regarding the various events, please refer to the National Archives website.

Exhibition Overview

Exhibition Title: Travelers Head East: Enchanting Eastern Japan as Depicted in Classical Literature
Duration: July 17, 2023 (Friday) – September 23, 2023 (Wednesday)

• - Please note: Open on weekends and holidays (July 20, 2023, and September 21, 2023, are open). Closed on Mondays and July 21, 2023.

Entry Fee: Free, no reservation needed
Location: National Archives of Japan, Tokyo Main Building, 1st Floor Exhibition Hall
Address: 3-2, Kitanomaru Park, Chiyoda, Tokyo, 102-0091
Access: A 5-minute walk from Takeshiba Station on the Tokyo Metro East-West Line, Exit 1b
Opening Hours: 9:15 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours until 8 PM on specified dates

For any inquiries related to press or exhibition details, please contact:

• - National Archives of Japan, Exhibition Department:

- Name: Nagai, Asai, Suzuki
- TEL: 03-6680-7206

Join us in exploring the fascinating stories of travelers who have ventured eastward, narrating their journeys through the lens of classical literature.