Classical Poetry of Kyoto

Though the waterfall fell silent long, long ago— its fame flows on, and still I hear it

Cherry blossoms scatter like snow in the storm-swept garden— but what truly fades with time is me.

On this spring day, bathed in gentle light from endless skies, why do the cherry blossoms fall with such restless hearts?

As twilight descends on Ogura's slopes, a deer's cry pierces the gathering dusk— could this be autumn's deepest midnight hour?

We met, yet parted before I knew— was it really you? Like the midnight moon, veiled by clouds too soon.

These double cherry blossoms from ancient Nara's court now grace the Emperor's nine-fold palace walls— how gloriously they bloom today!

I cast my sorrows into the summer river, standing here, watching—yet never satisfied, for where does that precious jewel drift now?

No one remains who might say 'how sad' When I am gone—and so my life Will fade to nothing, uncomforted

A cricket cries through frost-laden night— On this cold mat I spread my robe alone, wondering if I shall sleep thus, solitary.

In the pale dawn light, river mist parts like torn silk— weirs emerge from white silence.