Today, we explore Mount Fuji’s role as a “source of artistic inspiration,” focusing on its portrayal in classical Japanese literature—from ancient poetry to early narrative tales.
The Manyoshu: Japan’s Oldest Poetry Anthology
The Manyoshu (Collection of Ten Thousand Leaves), compiled in the 8th century under the supervision of Ōtomo no Yakamochi, contains over 4,500 poems by people of all social classes. Among them, 11 poems reference Mount Fuji.
Yamabe no Akahito’s Ode to Fuji
The most famous is a chōka (long poem) by Yamabe no Akahito, followed by a hanka (short response poem):
Chōka (Long Poem):
“Since the primal division of heaven and earth,
The divine and towering peak of Fuji in Suruga
Stands noble under the vast sky.
The sun’s light dims behind its summit,
The moon’s glow hides,
White clouds falter in its presence,
And eternal snow falls.
Let us forever speak of Fuji’s majesty.”
Hanka (Short Poem):
“From Tago’s shore, I gaze afar—
Snow blankets Fuji’s lofty peak,
Pure and white.”
This hanka was later adapted in the Shinkokinshu and Ogura Hyakunin Isshu anthologies, becoming one of Japan’s most iconic verses.
Fuji in the Kokinshu: Love and Volcanic Passion
The Kokinshu (Collection of Ancient and Modern Poems, 905 CE), commissioned by Emperor Daigo, includes five poems likening Mount Fuji’s volcanic fire to human passion:
Example 1:
“My hidden longing burns like Fuji’s flames—
A fire unseen, yet consuming my heart.”
Example 2:
“Whether near or far from you,
My love blazes like Fuji’s peak—
An unquenchable flame.”
These poems reflect Fuji’s frequent eruptions during this era. However, the anthology’s preface notes “even Fuji’s smoke has ceased”—hinting at a period of volcanic calm in the early 10th century.
The Ise Monogatari: Fuji as a Symbol of Awe
The Ise Monogatari (Tales of Ise), a 10th-century narrative blending poetry and prose, features a scene where the protagonist (possibly the poet Ariwara no Narihira) encounters Mount Fuji during his journey east:
Excerpt (Chapter 9: “Journey to the East”):
*”Traveling through Suruga Province,
I reached Utsu no Yama Pass—
A dark, narrow path choked with vines.
There, I met a wandering ascetic,
And sent a letter to my beloved in Kyoto:
‘At Utsu’s mountain in Suruga,
Even in dreams, we cannot meet—
Such is my lonely fate.’
Then I saw Fuji,
Its peak crowned with snow in late May.
‘Timeless Fuji,
Why does your snow fall like dappled fawn spots?’
To describe its grandeur:
Imagine stacking twenty Mount Hiei peaks—
A salt-shaker shape piercing the heavens.”*
Historical Context:
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Utsu no Yama Pass: Located in modern-day Shizuoka City, this was a key route on the Tokaido highway.
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The passage emphasizes Fuji’s imposing presence rather than eruptions, suggesting volcanic activity had subsided by this time.
Conclusion: Fuji’s Enduring Artistic Legacy
From smoky eruptions to snow-capped serenity, classical literature captures Mount Fuji’s ever-changing majesty. These works reveal how the mountain has long dominated Japan’s cultural imagination—a timeless muse for poets and storytellers alike.
To explore Fuji’s spiritual legacy, read our earlier post: [Mount Fuji’s Sacred Shrines and Pilgrimage History].
Key Takeaways:
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Manyoshu: Celebrates Fuji’s divine grandeur.
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Kokinshu: Uses volcanic imagery to symbolize passionate love.
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Ise Monogatari: Highlights Fuji’s awe-inspiring scale.
Whether as a fiery force or a snow-clad icon, Mount Fuji’s artistic legacy remains as towering as the mountain itself. 🗻
