The Party That Named an Era: Dazaifu, 730 CE
About the Poet
Otomo no Tabito (665-731) was one of Japan's most distinguished poets and aristocrats of the Nara period. Born into the powerful Otomo clan, he served as Governor-General of Dazaifu in Kyushu from 728-730, where he hosted the legendary plum blossom viewing party that inspired 32 poems in the Man'yoshu—including this famous verse. This gathering, held in 730 CE, is believed to have inspired the name of Japan's current era, 'Reiwa.' Tabito was known for his sophisticated Chinese-influenced poetry and his love of wine, composing a famous series 'In Praise of Sake.' His son, Otomo no Yakamochi, became an even more prolific poet and compiler of the Man'yoshu. Tabito's time in Dazaifu, though marked by his wife's death, produced some of his finest work. Visitors to Dazaifu today can walk the grounds where this historic poetry gathering took place, connecting directly with 8th-century literary culture.
Dazaifu, Fukuoka
Dazaifu, nestled in the hills of Fukuoka Prefecture, was ancient Japan's western administrative capital and gateway to continental Asia. Today, this charming town centers around Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to the god of learning, where thousands of plum trees bloom each February-March—the same blossoms Tabito celebrated 1,300 years ago. The shrine's modern addition by architect Kuma Kengo features a stunning interior wrapped in living greenery. Nearby, the Kyushu National Museum showcases the region's role in Asian cultural exchange. Visit in late winter for plum blossoms, or during exam season to witness students praying for success. The approach to the shrine is lined with shops selling umegae-mochi (plum rice cakes). Just 20 minutes by train from Hakata Station, Dazaifu offers a perfect half-day escape into poetic history.
Understanding the Poem
This poem captures the essence of anticipatory joy—the excitement of welcoming spring and the New Year together. Composed at Tabito's famous plum blossom viewing party in 730 CE, it establishes a ritual of seasonal celebration that continues in Japan today. The phrase 'kaku shi koso' (just like this, indeed) emphasizes the perfection of the moment, suggesting that gathering with friends beneath plum blossoms represents the ideal way to mark winter's end. The plum blossom (ume) held special significance in Nara-period Japan, imported from China and symbolizing cultural refinement. Unlike later cherry blossom poetry focused on transience, this verse radiates pure optimism and communal pleasure. The poem's final phrase, 'tanoshiki oeme' (let us complete our joy), transforms the gathering into a deliberate act of happiness-making—a sophisticated understanding that beauty must be actively savored.
This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission when you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.