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【〝ボイスメモ〟記録から対話内容復元作業へ】


　人間の記憶は脳活動の一環なので常に「取捨選択」して、重要な要点やきわめて個人的な興味ポイントについて集中的に働いていくのでしょう。記憶の総量にはどうも一定の「限度枠」がありそうで、また、日常生活を営んでいく以上、生物的生存に不可欠な平常心の領域を確保しつつ、保存されていく記憶の総量と、その細部情報には一定の枠が存在するのでしょう。
　今回の旅路では九州北部の宗像の宿泊地から早朝４時前に出発して電撃的に広島県数カ所を訪問していましたが、その主要目的地で、ある方と面談の機会をいただいていた。その内容について、個人としても家系としてもたいへん重要だったので「聞き漏らすまい」ということで、現代の利器 iPhoneの「ボイスメモ」で保存させることにした。
　大枠としての情報内容は記憶しているのですが、やはり「重要なディテール」部分については要確認したいと思ったので、いま、その「解析」作業を行っています。
　iPhoneのソフトの進化で、そのボイスからの「文字起こし」も可能になってきている。
　・・・というところまでは順調ですが（笑）、さてそこからは「話し言葉」から論理的文章化させるという「認知作業」フル動員が要求されてくる。自分のコトバについては自明であり特段、確認する必要はないけれど、相手方の話し言葉には、独特の「間合い」もあり、話の継ぎ手の呼吸感はそのひとの個性が反映してくる。そこの「汲み取り」が要注意ということになりますね。
　「いつ、どこで、なにが、どうして、どうなった」みたいな５W1H的な論旨の骨格を正しく抽出させるのは、当然こちら側の「理解力・認知力」もフル動員させられる。・・・なかなか「疲れる」作業だと実感させられます。
　人間の会話には、その対手の心情への配慮が重要。相手に「気持ちよく」話していただけるための環境作りが必要なので、肝心のポイントを掘り出すために、情緒的な雰囲気作りも重要になって来ますね。ビジネスで言えば「営業」的な心配りも重要ということ。一期一会と言ってもこの部分を無視しては成功はあり得ない。
　「あの〜」とか「それで」などの意味不明の接続語も会話の雰囲気とか、人間的親和性には不可欠。このように録音記録を再生させて要点抽出するのは、一種の「創造的営為」。
　ということで要点抽出、論旨の整合性を確保する興味深い作業進行中であります。ふ〜。

●お知らせ
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English version⬇

[From “Voice Memo” Recordings to Reconstructing Conversations]
The use of IT to support human memory. Bridging the gap between spoken language and logical writing to ensure consistency. I suppose this is an intriguing example of modern human ingenuity…

　Since human memory is part of brain activity, it is constantly “selecting and discarding” information, focusing its efforts on key points and matters of deeply personal interest. It seems there is a certain “capacity limit” to the total volume of memory. Furthermore, as long as we go about our daily lives, there must be a certain limit to both the total volume of memories stored and the level of detail within them, all while maintaining the mental state essential for biological survival.
　On this recent trip, I departed from my lodging in Munakata, northern Kyushu, just before 4:00 a.m. and made a whirlwind visit to several locations in Hiroshima Prefecture. At one of the main destinations, I had the opportunity to meet with a certain individual. Since the content of that conversation was extremely important both personally and for my family lineage, I decided to record it using the “Voice Memos” feature on my iPhone—a modern tool—so as not to miss a single word.
　I remember the general gist of the information, but I felt I needed to double-check the “important details,” so I am currently in the process of “analyzing” them.
Thanks to advancements in iPhone software, it’s now possible to transcribe that voice recording into text.
　…Things are going smoothly up to that point (laughs), but from there on, it requires fully mobilizing my “cognitive processing” to transform spoken language into logical written text. My own words are self-explanatory and don’t require special verification, but the other person’s spoken language has its own unique “pauses,” and the rhythm of their speech reflects their individuality. So, I have to be very careful to “pick up on” those nuances.
　Correctly extracting the skeletal structure of the argument—the “5W1H” elements like “when, where, what, why, and how”—naturally requires us to fully mobilize our own “comprehension and cognitive abilities.” …It really makes you realize just how “exhausting” this task can be.
　In human conversation, consideration for the other person’s feelings is crucial. Since we need to create an environment where the other person feels comfortable speaking, establishing an emotional atmosphere becomes essential for unearthing the key points. In business terms, this means that “sales-like” attentiveness is vital. Even if we speak of “ichi-go ichi-e” (treasuring every encounter as unique), success is impossible if we ignore this aspect.
　Vague transition words like “Um…” or “So…” are also indispensable for the atmosphere of the conversation and for building rapport. Listening back to a recording to extract key points in this way is a kind of “creative endeavor.”
So, I’m currently engaged in the fascinating process of extracting key points and ensuring the coherence of the argument. Phew.

● Announcement
My book, “Writers and Living Spaces,” has been published as an e-book by Gentosha.
Available on Amazon.

Posted on 6月 3rd, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
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【九州の神々からまた来いよ、の重低音（笑）】



　昨日九州から帰還。借り上げていたレンタカーも全12日間ということ。福岡の空港の支点で借りていたのですが途中、カーナビが故障してしまってまったく別の支点、大分の駅前の支点でクルマを交換していただき、その別のクルマで帰着という波瀾万丈ぶり。カーナビの故障って、はじめて遭遇しましたが、突然画面がフリーズしてしまう特殊なもの。はじめて訪問するところばかりのレンタカー移動にとっては、致命的に困ってしまう。「ここはどこ？　わたしは誰？」状態。
　そういうことでクルマが変わったので距離メーターは記憶ですが、途中では福岡県宗像から広島県への電撃訪問往復700kmもあり、おおむね3,000kmを突破していた。高齢期の自動車運転の個人的な記録領域（笑）。
　そういうことで九州の２県、佐賀・大分の２つの未踏破地域も無事に完走。
　写真は、6/1に最後の早朝散歩で歩いていた久留米市の「高野産八幡神社」境内地に鎮座されていた狛犬さんですが、先日ご紹介した狛犬とはまた一変して丸々としてかわいらしい風情。どうもこの久留米の狛犬には愛嬌があって楽しい（笑）。個人的には「おお、あんたか。どうだ、ここは気に入っただろ？　ぜひまた来いや」と話しかけてくれるようでした。
　九州北部のど真ん中・久留米を縦貫する「筑後川」には、夕景でも朝焼けぶりでも堪能させられていたのですが、その筑後川を鎮護しているような風情は、なかなかに情感的。
　高齢期の人間の九州行脚なので、下の写真のように各地の神社をたずねて神札を求めていましたが、それぞれの神さまもたいへんあたたかくお迎えいただいた。どうも加齢とともにこういった「思い」に弱くなってきているのでしょうか（笑）。
　札幌に帰着して家族のための整理整頓も行って、本日以降、ゲットしてきた情報もアタマのなかで整理統合させて個人的な探究心の栄養素にさせていただきたいと思います。まずは無事を感謝。

●お知らせ
拙書「作家と住空間」幻冬舎から電子書籍で発刊
お求めはAmazonで。
https://amzn.asia/d/eUiv9yO

English version⬇

[The deep, rumbling voice of the Kyushu gods saying, “Come back again!” (lol)]
I find solace in the “divine will” resonating from the komainu. Traveling abroad is nice, but I find the layers of Japanese history and culture infinitely more endearing. …

　I returned from Kyushu yesterday. My rental car was booked for a total of 12 days. I picked it up at the Fukuoka Airport branch, but halfway through the trip, the car’s navigation system broke down. So, I had to swap cars at a completely different branch—the one in front of the station in Oita—and made my way home in that replacement vehicle. It was quite an eventful journey. This was the first time I’d ever encountered a navigation system failure; it was a peculiar one where the screen suddenly froze. For a road trip where I was visiting places I’d never been to before, this was a major problem. I was in a total “Where am I? Who am I?” state.
Since I had to switch cars, I’m relying on memory for the mileage, but I did make a whirlwind round trip from Munakata in Fukuoka Prefecture to Hiroshima Prefecture—a 700 km journey—and I think I ended up driving over 3,000 km in total. That’s definitely a personal record for driving in my golden years (lol).
　And so, I successfully completed my journey through the two uncharted prefectures of Kyushu: Saga and Oita.
The photo shows a pair of komainu (guardian dogs) enshrined on the grounds of Takano-san Hachiman Shrine in Kurume City, which I visited during my final early morning walk on June 1. Unlike the komainu I introduced the other day, these have a plump, adorable charm. There’s just something charming and delightful about these Kurume komainu (lol). Personally, it felt as though they were saying to me, “Oh, it’s you. How’s it going? You like it here, don’t you? Be sure to come back again.”
The Chikugo River, which runs right through the heart of northern Kyushu in Kurume, treated me to stunning views whether at sunset or sunrise, and the atmosphere of the river—as if it were being protected by the deities—was quite moving.
　Since this was a pilgrimage through Kyushu by an elderly man, I visited shrines in various places, as shown in the photo below, to collect amulets, and each deity welcomed me very warmly. Perhaps I’m becoming more susceptible to these kinds of “feelings” as I get older (lol).
Now that I’ve returned to Sapporo and tidied things up for my family, starting today, I’d like to organize and integrate the information I gathered in my mind and let it simmer as nourishment for my personal curiosity. First and foremost, I’m grateful for my safe return.

● Announcement
My book, “Writers and Living Spaces,” has been published as an e-book by Gentosha.
Available on Amazon.
　
　
　

Posted on 6月 2nd, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
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【長旅の終わり筑後川残照。本日札幌へ帰還】



　さて12日間にわたった九州全周の旅路。昨日スタート振り出しの地、筑後川が大きな蛇行を見せる北部九州中央部の久留米に帰って参りました。孫をその母方の実家に「顔見せ・預け」る目的の旅路で、たっぷりの愛情を注がれていたことがあきらかな表情を見せている孫の身柄を再度受け取って、本日北海道へ帰還の予定。まことに深い縁に感謝の旅でした。
　昨日は日本全県めぐり最後の大分にて「大分市歴史資料館」を見学。そこで古墳内部の様子がわかる展示「千代丸古墳石室」の内部に入れるということで、またまた「お茶目写真」依頼（笑）。
　先日の甕棺といい、こちらの古墳石室といい、九州の地はやはり北海道人にとってその歴史時間積層ぶりで目が醒めるような地域だと印象されていました。
　わたしの「数寄」のうち歴史探訪は最大の領域なので、これからたくさんの資料群と大量の取材写真を整理整頓しながら、また、期間中に得られた情報などと総合して「深掘り作業」していきたいと考えています。孫の表情にも微妙な、しかし確かな時間経過での変貌も見られますが、ジイジも負けずに少しは成長していきたい（笑）と思っています。まだまだ負けないぞ（笑）。
　上の写真は筑後川河畔からの夕景ですが、北海道札幌は石狩川支流の豊平川の扇状地と本流の石狩川によって平野部が構成されている地域。日本人社会というのは大きくはこのような「水の管理」によって歴史が刻まれてきたのだろうと思います。
　旅の途中ではわが家系の故地・広島県東広島河内町入野にも遠征していましたが、家系の「ながれ」もそうした河川の流れの管理と深く関わっていたように思える。人間社会とその存在基盤としての水というものとの相関関係が、とくに食の経済史にとって決定的だったのだと実感させられてきています。まぁ当たり前の「気付き」ですが、実感として深めさせられた次第。
　そして列島南端の沖縄には台風が迫ってきているということで、水は生命の根源であり母であると同時に「荒ぶる」存在でもある。・・・本日の航路の安全を願掛けしつつ、筑後川の流れのやさしさを再度目に焼き付けながら、帰還したいと思います。

●お知らせ
拙書「作家と住空間」幻冬舎から電子書籍で発刊
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English version⬇

[The End of a Long Journey: The Afterglow on the Chikugo River. Returning to Sapporo Today]
My journey through Kyushu was a precious time of learning in the twilight of my life. For someone from Hokkaido, it was a journey that allowed me to deeply cherish my gratitude for that “motherly warmth.” …

　Well, my 12-day journey around Kyushu has come to an end. Yesterday, I returned to Kurume in central northern Kyushu—the starting point of my trip, where the Chikugo River meanders dramatically. The purpose of this trip was to introduce my grandchild to their maternal grandparents and leave them in their care. I’ve now taken my grandchild back—their face clearly showing how much love they’ve received—and plan to return to Hokkaido today. It was a journey filled with gratitude for this truly deep bond.
　Yesterday, in Oita—the final stop on my tour of all 47 prefectures—I visited the Oita City Historical Museum. There, I was able to enter the “Chiyomaru Kofun Stone Chamber,” an exhibit that reveals the interior of an ancient burial mound, so I naturally asked for another “playful photo” (laughs).
Between the jar coffin I saw the other day and this kofun stone chamber, I was struck by the impression that Kyushu is truly a region that opens the eyes of a Hokkaido native with its layers of accumulated history.
　Since exploring history is the biggest part of my “passions,” I plan to organize the vast collection of materials and the huge volume of photos I took during this trip, and then combine them with the information I gathered to really “dig deeper” into the subject. I can see subtle yet definite changes in my grandson’s expression as time passes, but I intend to keep up and grow a little myself too (lol). I’m not giving up just yet (lol).
　The photo above shows the evening view from the banks of the Chikugo River. In Sapporo, Hokkaido, the plains are formed by the alluvial fan of the Toyohira River—a tributary of the Ishikari River—and the main stream of the Ishikari River itself. I believe that Japanese society, on a grand scale, has had its history shaped by this kind of “water management.”
　During my travels, I also made a trip to Irino in Kawachi-cho, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima Prefecture—the ancestral home of my family. It seems to me that the “flow” of our family lineage was deeply intertwined with the management of such river currents. I’ve come to realize that the interdependence between human society and water—the very foundation of our existence—has been decisive, particularly in the economic history of food. Well, it’s an obvious “realization,” but I’ve come to feel it more deeply.
　And with a typhoon approaching Okinawa at the southern tip of the archipelago, I am reminded that water is the source of life and a mother, yet it is also a “raging” force. …Praying for a safe journey today, I would like to return home while once again imprinting the gentle flow of the Chikugo River in my mind.

● Announcement
My book, “Writers and Living Spaces,” has been published as an e-book by Gentosha.
Available on Amazon.
　
　
　
　
　
　

Posted on 6月 1st, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
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【日本列島全県踏破、有終の大分は国宝・宇佐神宮へ】




　さて、先般のブログ記事で書いたとおり、今回の旅路はこれまでの人生であんまり訪問していない九州の「未踏破」県をじっくり回ってみたい、というのがホンネ。先日の佐賀県でカタチ的には達成なんですが、大分県も断片的にしか来ていないことから、最終地認識を持った次第。
　そして一昨日から大分市・別府市を中心に東九州自動車道に沿って行脚しておりました。そのなかでも「心残り」の最たるものだったのが「国宝・宇佐神宮」。
　日本史の中でこの神域は、武家の「八幡」信仰の祖神地として知られてきた。
　また、弓削道鏡が天皇家を乗っ取ろうとした刹那の瞬間に和気清麻呂が、道鏡の即位を食い止めた事件でも、この宇佐の神の「神意」が決定的な要因になったとされている。
　写真は、八幡神の故地とされる「八幡大神ご顕現の聖地 御霊水」の様子。宇佐神宮本殿の裏地で、奥の院的な場所ですが、訪れる人も少なめで、こころ穏やかに参拝できた。由緒書きは以下。
　〜亀山の麓、菱形池のほとり、三つの霊泉からなるこの御霊水は、上宮御本殿の真裏（北側）に位置し、往古来今、常に清水が湧き出で絶えることのない霊泉として知られる。
　欽明天皇三十二年（571年）辛卵、八幡大明神、筑紫に顕れたまふ。豊前国宇佐郡厩峯菱形池の間に鍛治の翁有り。首甚だ奇異なり。これに因って大神比義、穀を絶つこと三年、籠居精進して、即ち幣帛を捧げて祈って言く。「若し汝神ならば、我が前に顕るべし」と。即ち三歳の少児と顕れ、竹葉に立ちて宣く。「我は是れ日本の人皇第十六代誉田天皇なり。我が名は、護国霊験威力神通大自在王菩薩なり。国々所々に、跡を神道に垂れ初て顕るのみ。」と記され、八幡大神がこの御霊水の辺りに初めてご顕現になったと伝えている。
　霊泉が湧き出る八幡大神ご顕現のこの聖地は、長い歴史のなかで霊水、鍛冶場、下井の霊水と呼ばれてきた。尚、御霊水の最奥にある八角形の影商石には、八幡大神が神馬に召され天翔けられた時の馬蹄の跡が残されている。〜　以上、現地の解説案内板より。
　・・・日本史を彩ってきた神々の中で出雲や伊勢は何度か訪れているけれど、今回ようやく宇佐の大神に触れることができた気分。ちなみにこの社での参拝の仕方は，二礼四拍手一礼、という出雲の古社と同じ拝礼方法。この拝礼が日本社会の古格なのではとも思わせられる。
　ということで、八幡神はじまりの地がわたしの最後の訪問県になった次第。
　で、一件落着と思いきや、別行動で買い物に行っていたカミさんから火急の知らせ。おお、と右往左往の大立ち回りで振り回される。詳細は秘して語らず。終わりは次のはじまり（笑）。・・・

●お知らせ
拙書「作家と住空間」幻冬舎から電子書籍で発刊
お求めはAmazonで。
https://amzn.asia/d/eUiv9yO

English version⬇

[Having Traveled Every Prefecture in the Japanese Archipelago, I Conclude My Journey in Ōita with a Visit to the National Treasure, Usa Jingu]
Hachiman is the ancestor of the Japanese martial arts. Usa is the cradle of Japanese history. A pilgrimage to the sacred spring where it all began. And from there, the beginning of a whirlwind of change (lol)…

　Well, as I mentioned in my previous blog post, the real reason for this trip is that I wanted to take my time exploring the “unexplored” prefectures of Kyushu—places I haven’t visited much in my life so far. While I technically achieved that goal in Saga Prefecture the other day, I’ve only been to Oita Prefecture in bits and pieces, so I decided to make it my final destination.
　So, starting the day before yesterday, I’ve been traveling along the East Kyushu Expressway, focusing on Oita City and Beppu City. Among the places I visited, the one I most regretted missing was the “National Treasure: Usa Jingu.”
　In Japanese history, this sacred precinct has long been known as the ancestral site of the samurai class’s “Hachiman” faith.
Furthermore, it is said that the “divine will” of the deity of Usa played a decisive role in the incident where Waki no Kiyomaro thwarted Yuge no Dōkyō’s attempt to seize the Imperial throne at the very moment of his coup.
　The photo shows the “Sacred Water of the Manifestation of the Great Hachiman Deity,” a site believed to be the ancestral home of the Hachiman deity. Located behind the main hall of Usa Jingu, it is a secluded, inner sanctuary-like place; with few visitors, I was able to pay my respects in peace. The description of its history is as follows.
　~Located at the foot of Mount Kameyama, on the banks of Hishigata Pond, this sacred water consists of three springs. Situated directly behind (to the north of) the Main Hall of the Upper Shrine, it has been known since ancient times as a sacred spring from which clear water constantly flows without ceasing.
In the 32nd year of Emperor Kinmei’s reign (571), in the year of the Rooster, the Great Hachiman Deity manifested in Tsukushi. In the area between Umine and Hishigata Pond in Usa District, Buzen Province, there lived an old blacksmith. His head was most peculiar. Because of this, the great priest Hiyoshi abstained from grain for three years, secluded himself in ascetic practice, and then offered sacred offerings and prayed, saying, “If you are a god, you must manifest yourself before me.” Immediately, he appeared as a three-year-old child, standing on a bamboo leaf, and proclaimed: “I am Emperor Hondan, the sixteenth Emperor of Japan. My name is Gokoku Reigen Iryoku Shintsu Daijizai-ō Bosatsu. I have only now first manifested myself, leaving traces of the Shinto way in various places throughout the land.” It is recorded that Hachiman Ōkami first manifested himself near this sacred spring.
　This sacred site, where the Hachiman Great Deity manifested and the sacred spring gushes forth, has been known throughout its long history as the Sacred Water, the Blacksmith’s Forge, and the Sacred Water of Shimoi. Furthermore, on the octagonal Kage-shō-ishi stone at the very back of the sacred spring, the hoofprints remain from when the Hachiman Great Deity was summoned by a divine horse and soared into the heavens. ~ From the on-site explanatory signboard.
　…Among the deities that have colored Japanese history, I’ve visited Izumo and Ise several times, but this time I finally feel as though I’ve been able to connect with the Great Deity of Usa. Incidentally, the way to worship at this shrine is “two bows, four claps, one bow”—the same ritual used at the ancient shrines of Izumo. It makes me wonder if this form of worship isn’t the ancient standard of Japanese society.
And so, the birthplace of the Hachiman deity became the last prefecture I visited.
　Just when I thought everything was settled, I received an urgent message from my wife, who had gone shopping separately. “Oh no!” I found myself running around in a frantic scramble. I won’t go into details here. The end is the beginning of the next chapter (lol). …

● Announcement
My book, “Writers and Living Spaces,” has been published as an e-book by Gentosha.
Available on Amazon.　
　

　

Posted on 5月 31st, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
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【高千穂峡・天岩戸信仰と世界農業遺産の景観】


　一昨日薩摩・鹿児島をめぐって、昨日は日本の神話世界の地である高千穂峡〜天岩戸神社などを探訪していました。
　宮崎県は以前、住宅関係団体の全国大会で来て、宮崎市周辺を歩いていた。当然、県北部のこれら神話の地ははじめて訪れた次第。わたしの仕事人生は「住宅空間と人間性」領域で過ごしたので、住宅が包み込まれる地域総体の伝統的規範など文化的なものにも思いが至ってくる。
　北海道は明治期以降の開拓地で主にその寒冷条件に対して合理主義精神から「人間をあたたかく守る」という素朴な機能性と人間の心情の関係を主要テーマとして追求してきた。住宅メディア人としては、そこからの「拡張」的な興味なのでしょう。
　生かされてきた日本語文化圏のありよう、という部分。
　人間のいのちには当然限りがあるので、自分が見聞きできる時代相が意識に反映される。
　日本人の共有神話世界に対しては「実相」感とはやや距離があるけれど、それを尊重して生きてきたことを共有させていただく一択。
　神話的世界観にどういう「思い」が宿っているのか探るという心理でしょうか。

そんな気分で探訪し天岩戸神社に至る道路を走っていて、ふと気付いていたのがその風景景観環境のなつかしさと「日本」感。そして目に飛び込んできたのが「世界農業遺産」という表示柱。ホテルに入ってからWEB検索したら以下の情報を知った次第。
　〜宮崎県の世界農業遺産は高千穂町など5町村にまたがる「高千穂郷・椎葉山地域」。林業と農業を巧みに組み合わせた伝統的な複合システムや、縄文時代から続く焼畑農法、そして独自の神楽文化が世界的に高く評価されている。高千穂郷・椎葉山地域は地形が急峻で平地が少ない山間部にありながら、自然の恵みを活かして持続可能な生活を営んできた地域。〜
　なるほどと、地域と人間の長く継続してきた「生き様」が腑に落ちてきた次第。
　2015年12月に国連食糧農業機関（FAO）により世界農業遺産に認定されたとのこと。●農林業の複合システム●伝統的な焼畑農法●山腹用水路の歴史●豊かな文化と景観の継承、という４つの認定要素からの認定とされていた。
　まさに日本人が生き抜いてきた「生き方システム」が抽象されている。そういう地域性のなかに、「日本神話」的な世界観も同居しているのだと。・・・う〜む。

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[Takachiho Gorge: The Amano-Iwato Myth and the Landscape of the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System]
A way of life that is quintessentially “Japanese” and in harmony with nature—a vision that suddenly awakens us from the world of myth. The practical use of the land and the beauty of the landscape…

　The day before yesterday, I toured Satsuma and Kagoshima, and yesterday I visited Takachiho Gorge—a place steeped in Japanese mythology—and the Amano-Iwato Shrine.
I had previously visited Miyazaki Prefecture for a national conference of a housing-related organization and walked around the Miyazaki City area. Naturally, this was my first time visiting these mythical sites in the northern part of the prefecture. Having spent my professional life in the field of “housing spaces and humanity,” my thoughts naturally turn to cultural aspects such as the traditional norms of the broader regional context in which housing is embedded.
Hokkaido, as a frontier region developed since the Meiji period, has primarily pursued the relationship between simple functionality—the idea of “keeping people warm”—and human emotions, driven by a spirit of rationalism in response to its harsh climate. As someone in the housing media, this represents an “expansion” of my interests from that foundation.
　Specifically, the nature of the Japanese cultural sphere that has been sustained over time.
Since human life is, of course, finite, the era I can see and hear reflects in my consciousness.
Although it is somewhat removed from a sense of “true reality,” I have no choice but to share that I have lived my life respecting the shared mythical world of the Japanese people.
Perhaps it is a psychological exploration of what “thoughts” dwell within that mythical worldview.

With that mindset, as I drove along the road leading to Ama-Iwato Shrine, I suddenly noticed the nostalgic, quintessentially “Japanese” feel of the scenery and surroundings. Then, a signpost labeled “Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems” caught my eye. After checking online once I got back to the hotel, I found the following information.
—Miyazaki Prefecture’s Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems site is the “Takachiho-go and Shiiba-yama Region,” spanning five towns and villages including Takachiho Town. Its traditional integrated system that skillfully combines forestry and agriculture, slash-and-burn farming practices dating back to the Jomon period, and unique Kagura culture are highly regarded worldwide. The Takachiho-go and Shiiba-yama region is located in a mountainous area with steep terrain and little flat land, yet it is a region that has sustained a sustainable way of life by making the most of nature’s bounty. ~
It all made sense to me, and I finally understood the long-standing “way of life” shared by the region and its people.
It was designated as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in December 2015. ● The certification was based on four key elements: ● integrated agroforestry systems ● traditional slash-and-burn farming ● the history of mountain-side irrigation channels ● and the preservation of rich culture and landscapes.
It truly encapsulates the “way of life” that the Japanese people have sustained over the centuries. And within that regional character, a worldview reminiscent of “Japanese mythology” also coexists. …Hmm.

●Announcement
My book, “Writers and Living Spaces,” has been published as an e-book by Gentosha.
Available on Amazon.

　
　
　

Posted on 5月 30th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
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【薩摩国の由来をまなぶ in 仙巌園にて】


　九州あちこち探訪の旅路、本日は南の端・鹿児島県です。以前、熊本の地震災害の折りにその被害状況と復興の状況視察のツアーがあり、日本建築学会の第56代会長の吉野博（東北大学名誉教授）先生たちと同行し参加していました。
　その帰路、一行とは別れ北海道人としてはまったくの未踏の地である薩摩国を訪れていた。
　そこで見学していたのが、薩摩藩独自の制度：領内を113の区画に分割する「外城（とじょう）制度」の遺構として全人口の約4分の1を占めるという非常に高い武士割合を活かした「麓（ふもと）」と呼ぶ、武士を地方集落に分散配置させ農民として自活させながら、有事には直ちに軍団を形成する地域防衛体制を確立していた。北海道の開拓期の「屯田兵」制度のルーツを見学していた。
　そうか、そういう制度が基礎だったのか、ということ。先日の佐賀・鍋島藩の薩摩への反感は、こういった薩摩の独裁的な北海道支配構造への反発だったのでしょう。
　北海道人としては直視すべき制度のルーツ。
　で、今回はカミさんの周到な事前調査から、薩摩・島津家の「別邸」仙巌園にて、しっかり地域の歴史の推移を学ばせていただいた次第。
　上の図は、海の始まる地・薩摩と題された説明。〜
　島津氏が支配した南九州の地理的な重要性は、海外の玄関口としての役割に由来。薩摩の語源は「西（サ）の端（ツマ）」。南九州は政治的中心、奈良・京都からは陸の終わり（辺境）であるとともに「海のはじまり」。鹿児島から大陸までの距離は奈良・京都までの距離とそれほど変わらず、むしろ海を通じて大陸・東南アジアに近い地理的関係とわかる。

　古代から存在する複数海外ルートの中で北島（博多から対馬・朝鮮半島ルート）は、朝鮮半島との外交関係に影響されやすかったため次第に南方ルート（南路・南島路）の重要性が高まった。これは奄美・琉球を経て中国・東南アジアへ至る海路で、南九州の港はその起点として重要となった。
　
　・・・そうか、と素直に腑に落ちる解説。導いてくれたカミさんに完全に脱帽であります（笑）。
　こういうグランドデザインから見ていけば、鍋島藩の反発はそれとして、たしかに薩摩の重要性は理解できる。こうした「事始め」から１日、たっぷりと学ばせていただいた次第。ふむふむ。

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English version⬇
　
[Learning About the Origins of Satsuma Province at Sengan-en]
In Saga, we were all on the same page that “Satsuma is treacherous,” but once I got to know the true nature of Satsuma, I started to feel like we had “differing perspectives” (lol). Satsuma, the “gateway to the sea” of the Japanese archipelago…

　On my journey exploring various parts of Kyushu, today I’m in Kagoshima Prefecture, at the southern tip of the region. Some time ago, following the earthquake disaster in Kumamoto, I participated in a tour to inspect the damage and reconstruction efforts, accompanying Professor Hiroshi Yoshino (Professor Emeritus at Tohoku University), the 56th President of the Architectural Institute of Japan, and others.
On the return trip, I parted ways with the group and visited Satsuma Province—a region that, as a native of Hokkaido, was completely uncharted territory for me.
　There, I observed the remnants of the Satsuma Domain’s unique system: the “Tojō System,” which divided the domain into 113 districts. Leveraging the domain’s exceptionally high proportion of samurai—said to account for about a quarter of the total population—this system established a regional defense structure known as “Fumoto.” Under this system, samurai were dispersed to local villages and made to support themselves as farmers, yet could immediately form military units in times of emergency. I was observing the roots of the “Tondenhei” system from Hokkaido’s pioneering era.
Ah, so that system was the foundation. The resentment the Nabeshima clan of Saga felt toward Satsuma the other day was likely a reaction against this kind of authoritarian Hokkaido governance structure.
　As a Hokkaido native, these are the roots of the system I must confront head-on.
So, thanks to my wife’s thorough advance research, I was able to gain a solid understanding of the region’s historical evolution at Sengan-en, the “country estate” of the Satsuma Shimazu clan.
The image above is an explanation titled “Satsuma: Where the Sea Begins.” ~
　The geographical importance of southern Kyushu, ruled by the Shimazu clan, stems from its role as a gateway to the outside world. The word “Satsuma” derives from “Sa” (west) and “tsuma” (edge). Southern Kyushu was a political center; from Nara and Kyoto, it was both the “end of the land” (the frontier) and the “beginning of the sea.” The distance from Kagoshima to the mainland is not much different from the distance to Nara and Kyoto; in fact, it reveals a geographical relationship that is closer to the mainland and Southeast Asia via the sea.

　Among the multiple overseas routes that have existed since ancient times, the Northern Route (from Hakata to Tsushima and the Korean Peninsula) was easily influenced by diplomatic relations with the Korean Peninsula, so the importance of the Southern Route (Nanro and Nanjiro) gradually increased. This was a sea route passing through Amami and the Ryukyu Islands to reach China and Southeast Asia, and the ports of southern Kyushu became important as its starting point.
　
　…Ah, I see—an explanation that makes perfect sense. I take my hat off to my wife, who guided me here (lol).
Looking at it from this broader perspective, setting aside the Nabeshima clan’s resistance, I can certainly understand Satsuma’s importance. It’s been a day since we started this “introduction,” and I’ve learned a great deal. Hmm, hmm.

● Announcement
My book, “Writers and Living Spaces,” has been published as an e-book by Gentosha.
Available on Amazon.
　

Posted on 5月 29th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
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【吉野ヶ里23年ぶり再訪・甕棺にて神妙に・・・】



　さて佐賀県の探訪フィニッシュはこれまでも２回ほど来ている「吉野ヶ里遺跡」。
　吉野ヶ里町は佐賀県でもいちばん九州の中央部に近接していて、高速道路網の九州でのセンターとも思える「鳥栖JC」からも近接している。名残惜しいのですが、佐賀県最後のポイントとしてはまことに「有終の美」感が迫ってくる。
　今回はお茶目なカミさんのはからいでわたしは「甕棺」入りの写真を取られてしまった（泣）。入って写真を取られることになると、不思議に輪廻感が内心に芽生えてきていました。弥生のこの頃、この列島社会ではこういう黄泉への旅立ちが「定め」とされていた実感が湧いていた。
　歴史好きとしては、わたしの人生時間に発掘されて遺跡調査が進んだこの吉野ヶ里と、青森県の三内丸山には、格別の思いがある。数寄を深めてくれた遺跡として、過去の多くの日本人以上に「体験」させていただけたことに感謝しています。

　この写真は2003年の正月に小学校低学年だった息子を強制的に連れ立って訪問したときのもの。「こんな遺跡見物はもういやだ」感が出ている様子（笑）。かわいそうに・・・。
　ま、しかし父親としては自分の数寄を「伝える」機会でもあるわけで、なんとも言えない。
　さて今回の訪問で「あ、もっと居たかったなぁ」と思えたのが上から２枚目の「田んぼ」写真。どうしても遺跡の復元建築にばかり興味が向かうけれど、園内を廻遊するバスから見えていた、この復元された稲作の痕跡のありようには、唸らされていた。
　その規模感や、あぜ道、水路の作られようには、最新の研究知見が集約的に表現されていることが遠目にもあきらかだと感じられていた。「こんなふうに最初期の稲作はおこなわれていたのかなぁ」であります。日本の気候風土条件の中に展開されていった主食生産のコア構造。
　まぁ研究探索はこういう遺跡現地での「実感」からスタートして、自分なりに深めて行くのにはWEBや書籍などを活用すればいい。本当にありがたい時代に「生かされている」ことを感じる。
　今回の吉野ヶ里体験では「日本」という社会のさまざまな「最初期」というものについての知見が深まってきているのだと感じさせられていた。
　家に帰ってこれらの写真を整理整頓し「数寄」を深めたいと思わされていました・・・。

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[Returning to Yoshinogari for the First Time in 23 Years: Contemplating the Jar Coffins…]
Yoshinogari and Sannai-Maruyama have dramatically deepened my passion for history. I’m grateful to have experienced these archaeological sites while I’m still alive—and I even ended up contemplating the jar coffins (lol)…

　Well, the final stop on my tour of Saga Prefecture is the “Yoshinogari Ruins,” a place I’ve visited about twice before.
Yoshinogari Town is located in the part of Saga Prefecture closest to the center of Kyushu, and it’s also near the “Tosu Interchange,” which could be considered the hub of Kyushu’s expressway network. Although I’m a bit reluctant to leave, as the last stop in Saga Prefecture, it truly feels like a fitting finale.
　This time, thanks to my playful wife’s scheme, I ended up having my picture taken inside a “jar coffin” (sob). As I stepped inside to have my photo taken, a strange sense of reincarnation began to stir within me. I could really feel that, back in the Yayoi period, this kind of journey to the afterlife was considered “fate” in the society of these islands.
　As a history enthusiast, I have a special attachment to Yoshino-gari—which was excavated and studied during my lifetime—and Sannai-Maruyama in Aomori Prefecture. I am grateful that these sites, which have deepened my appreciation for history, have allowed me to “experience” them more fully than many Japanese people of the past.

This photo was taken during a visit I forced my son—who was in the lower grades of elementary school at the time—to join me on during the New Year holidays in 2003. He looks like he’s thinking, “I never want to visit ruins like this again” (lol). Poor thing…
　Well, as a father, it was also an opportunity to “pass on” my own passion, so I can’t really say anything.
　Now, what made me think, “Ah, I wish I could have stayed longer,” during this visit was the second photo from the top, the one of the “rice paddies.” While my interest inevitably gravitates toward the reconstructed ruins, I was truly impressed by the sight of these restored traces of rice cultivation, which I could see from the bus touring the grounds.
　Even from a distance, it was clear that the scale of the site, along with the construction of the ridges and irrigation channels, was a concentrated expression of the latest research findings. It made me wonder, “Is this how rice farming was practiced in its earliest days?” The core structure of staple food production that evolved within Japan’s unique climate and geographical conditions.
Well, research and exploration start with this kind of “real-life experience” at the site itself, and I can use the internet and books to deepen my understanding in my own way. I feel truly grateful to be “living in” such a wonderful era.
This experience at Yoshinogari made me realize that my understanding of the various “earliest stages” of Japanese society is deepening.
I found myself wanting to go home, organize these photos, and further cultivate my “passion” for the subject…

● Announcement
My book, “Writers and Living Spaces,” has been published as an e-book by Gentosha.
Available on Amazon.

Posted on 5月 28th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
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【佐賀城内にて鍋島藩殿様と密談（放談）に及ぶ（笑）】


　「明治帝の北海道開拓の詔勅を背負ってもたらした藩士・島義勇はいかがでござったか？」
　「それはそれはみごとでしたよ。毎日北海道神宮社殿前に置かれた像に拝礼していますよ」
　「・・・でござるか。みごととはかたじけない」
　・・・という会話妄想に浸っていましたが、どうも写真は照れくさくての破顔一笑ぶり。失礼。はじめて訪れた佐賀県の県庁所在都市、佐賀市の中心にある佐賀城内にて、であります。写真が残されているということで明治期の最先端藩・肥前鍋島藩のお殿様・10代藩主の鍋島直正（なべしま なおまさ）公の写真とのツーショットをご案内の方に撮影していただいた。
　梅雨まっ盛りの九州の旅路と言うことで、ぐしょ濡れを覚悟していたのですが、案に相違して晴天ぶりですっかり日焼けしたにやけ顔で、申し訳ありません。ブログ記述人であります。北海道人は本来色白系なので日焼けするとご覧のような「真っ赤っか」ぶりであります（泣）。
　案内者の地元の方とは「いや、薩摩の連中は奸佞にて・・・」と悪口放言大会（笑）。「おかげで島義勇は明治帝の詔勅を背負って渡道し道都・札幌開拓の礎となったにもかかわらず、最後は政府への反乱者として征伐されてしまった経緯。
　そういう歴史の無念への思いを鎮魂するような訪問意図。そんな話題を案内の方と話していたら、さすがに地元人としてのプライドを刺激されてしまったようで、すっかり上機嫌に対応していただいて、最後にはこういう写真撮影の申し出を受けてしまった次第です。
　まことにお恥ずかしい写真でありますがお許し願いたい。
　さて、梅雨時なのに晴れ続きだったのですが、本日はさすがにこの時期本来の雨空。連日の野外露天行脚を少しはペースダウンしたいと思います。さすがに日焼け過ぎ。
　というところに実は、先般の広島県電撃往復からの家系調査に大きな進展の知らせ反応を受けた。まことにありがたい情報に感謝しておりました。ということで本日は早めにホテルに着陣して、想を練って参りたいと思います。一転して「雨あめ降れ降れ」。関係各所にこの情報を共有したい。
　あ、そういえばこのあと薩摩鹿児島にも行く予定だった・・・。さてさて。

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[Having a private chat (or rather, a casual chat) with the Lord of the Nabeshima Domain inside Saga Castle (lol)]
The Hizen Nabeshima Domain played a major role in the Meiji Restoration and the development of Hokkaido. Grateful for their kindness, I innocently snapped a photo with the Lord. I can’t help but smile—it’s a bit embarrassing…

　“What did you think of Shimazu Yoshiyuki, the samurai who carried the Meiji Emperor’s imperial edict on the development of Hokkaido?”
“He was truly magnificent. I pay my respects every day to the statue placed in front of the Hokkaido Jingu Shrine.”
“…Is that so? I am humbled by your praise.”
…I was lost in this imaginary conversation, but looking at the photo, I realize I was just grinning shyly. My apologies. This was taken inside Saga Castle, located in the center of Saga City—the prefectural capital of Saga Prefecture, which I was visiting for the first time. I was told that a photograph of Lord Naomasa Nabeshima, the 10th lord of the Hizen Nabeshima Domain—one of the most progressive domains of the Meiji era—still existed, so the person who guided me took this photo of me posing alongside it.
　Since this was a trip to Kyushu in the middle of the rainy season, I was prepared to get soaked, but contrary to expectations, the weather was sunny, and I ended up with a sunburned, grinning face—my apologies. I’m the blogger here. People from Hokkaido tend to have fair skin, so when we get sunburned, we turn “bright red” like you see here (sob).
　My local guide and I had a good old time trading insults, saying things like, “Man, those Satsuma folks were such schemers…” (laughs). We talked about how, despite Shima Yoshiyuki crossing to Hokkaido bearing the Meiji Emperor’s imperial edict and laying the foundation for the development of Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, he was ultimately crushed as a rebel against the government.
The purpose of my visit was to pay my respects and soothe the lingering regret of that historical injustice. As I was discussing this topic with my guide, it seems my remarks really struck a nerve—or perhaps I touched on a point of local pride—because he became quite cheerful and accommodating, and in the end, he even agreed to this photo op.
It’s a truly embarrassing photo, but I hope you’ll forgive me.
Now, even though it’s the rainy season, we’ve had nothing but sunny days, but today, as expected, we have the typical rainy skies of this time of year. I think I’ll slow down the pace of my daily outdoor excursions a bit. I’ve definitely gotten too much sun.
　Just as I was thinking that, I actually received news of a major breakthrough in the family history research I’d been conducting following my recent whirlwind round trip to Hiroshima. I was truly grateful for this valuable information. So, I plan to check into the hotel early today and reflect on my thoughts. Suddenly, I’m thinking, “Rain, rain, please fall.” I want to share this information with all relevant parties.
Well then…

● Announcement
My book, “Writers and Living Spaces,” has been published as an e-book by Gentosha.
Available on Amazon.　
　

Posted on 5月 27th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
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【日本全県踏破・佐賀県で人生終盤近くに達成か（笑）】



　わたしは今から57-58年近く前の高校生の頃に、日本国内旅行、東京に行くよりも前にヨーロッパ旅行に旅立ったことが人生の「旅行始原」。ヨーロッパ旅行から帰ってきて無性に日本国内を旅したいと祈念して、帰国後その足で奈良京都方面に向かっていた経験がある。
　そこから延々と国内国外を旅してきたけれど、とりわけ国内の旅路の方に深く惹かれて来た。
　その旅路で、徐々に各地域に心が染み入ってくるものを感じ続けてきた。とくに東北各県については第２のビジネスの戦場感覚まで持って過ごしてきた。
　で、徐々に「未探訪地域」がなくなって来て、いよいよ最後に残されたのが、佐賀県地域。まぁ厳密には九州の高速道路の心臓部・鳥栖ジャンクションや「吉野ヶ里」は佐賀県であり、吉野ヶ里探訪には20年以上前に行っているのですが、今回ついに佐賀県の奥深く、有田地域から唐津にと、本格的に探訪することが出来た。（！）でも、県庁所在地名すらうろ覚えで「え、佐賀って言う街があるの？」とまでボケボケ認識ぶり（笑）。いや失礼いたしました・・・。
　写真は有田の「陶山神社」。有田焼の産地らしく鳥居も狛犬も「陶器製」で有名とのこと。
　佐賀県はこの有田とか、唐津、また伊万里などとにかく「焼き物陶器」が地域を名高くしている。カミさんは陶器には興味満々のようですが、わたしは料理作りはスキだけれど、その容器にはそれほどの数寄は感じないタイプ。まぁ個人的に関心が薄いのですね。
　でも、食事にはその器は絶対不可欠な要素であることを考えれば、そういう数寄傾向を強く持つことは理解できます。また、有田で初めて知ったのが、TOTOやINAXなどの住設建材企業は多くは、この陶器の産業技術が、現代の石油文明の中で活かされた典型だということにも思いが至りますね。昨年はINAXの出自が愛知・常滑にあることも探査していた。
　昨日も有田焼の現代企業を訪問していてそのスタッフの方と話していたのですが、石油関連産業であるプラスチック文明に今回のイラン戦争で改めて気付かされて、脱石油文明の基盤は再び、こうした陶器産業が再起動させる原動力になるのでは、と話し合っていた次第。
　・・・ということで、きょうあすと佐賀県をディープに探訪したいと思います。あ、ホントは大分県もちょっとしか行っていなかった、もの忘れ満開（泣）。

●お知らせ
拙書「作家と住空間」幻冬舎から電子書籍で発刊
お求めはAmazonで。
https://amzn.asia/d/eUiv9yO

English version⬇

[Conquering Every Prefecture in Japan: Will I Finally Achieve This in Saga Prefecture, Near the End of My Life? (lol)]
Human life depends heavily on food. And “tableware” embodies a rich accumulation of culture and craftsmanship. Saga was the cradle of Japanese pottery craftsmanship. …

　The “origin of my travels” dates back to when I was a high school student, nearly 57 or 58 years ago. Before I had even traveled within Japan or visited Tokyo, I set off on a trip to Europe. After returning from that trip, I was overcome with an intense desire to travel within Japan, and I remember heading straight for the Nara and Kyoto areas as soon as I got back.
Since then, I have traveled endlessly both within and outside Japan, but I have always been particularly drawn to domestic travel.
　Throughout those journeys, I have consistently felt my heart gradually becoming imbued with the spirit of each region. In particular, I have come to view the prefectures of Tohoku as a second business battlefield.
As a result, the “unexplored regions” have gradually dwindled, and the last remaining area was Saga Prefecture. Well, strictly speaking, Tosu Junction—the heart of Kyushu’s expressway network—and “Yoshinogari” are in Saga Prefecture, and I actually visited Yoshinogari over 20 years ago. But this time, I was finally able to make a proper exploration deep into Saga Prefecture, from the Arita region all the way to Karatsu. (!) However, I was so out of it that I could barely even remember the name of the prefectural capital—I was so clueless I actually asked, “Wait, is there a city called Saga?” (lol). My apologies…
The photo shows “Touzan Shrine” in Arita. As befits a center of Arita ware production, the shrine is famous for its “ceramic” torii gate and komainu (guardian dogs).
　Saga Prefecture is renowned for its “pottery and ceramics,” with places like Arita, Karatsu, and Imari making the region famous. My wife seems to be absolutely fascinated by pottery, but while I enjoy cooking, I’m not the type to have much of a connoisseur’s eye for the vessels themselves. Well, I guess I just don’t have much personal interest in it.
　Still, considering that tableware is an absolutely essential element of a meal, I can understand why some people have such a strong appreciation for it. Also, something I learned for the first time in Arita is that many plumbing and building materials companies, such as TOTO and INAX, are prime examples of how this ceramic industry’s technology has been put to use in our modern petroleum-based civilization. Last year, I was also researching the fact that INAX has its roots in Tokoname, Aichi.
Yesterday, I visited a modern Arita ware company and was talking with the staff there. We discussed how the current war in Iran has made us acutely aware of the plastic civilization—which is tied to the oil industry—and how the foundation for moving away from this oil-based civilization might once again be driven by the revival of the pottery industry.
　…So, I plan to explore Saga Prefecture in depth today and tomorrow. Oh, actually, I’ve only been to Oita Prefecture a little bit—my memory is completely shot (sob).

● Announcement
My book, “Writers and Living Spaces,” has been published as an e-book by Gentosha.
Available on Amazon.

　
　

Posted on 5月 26th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
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【水天宮参拝〜お食い初め〝養い親〟体験】


　さて今回の旅路は北海道と九州の人間の「結縁」での孫の人生通過儀礼が主目的。
　それに沿って孫にとっての人生「儀式」機会をともに過ごさせてもらった。戦後生まれの北海道人としては、まったく体験していなかったことを「初体験」。しかも男子の縁者として男性「最高齢者」ということで、お食い初め儀式の〝養い親〟という役目も務めておりました。
　事前にWEBで以下の「作法」が縁者から示され、その役目を果たしていた次第。以下概要。
　〜■お食い初め儀式のやり方　赤ちゃんと同姓の最年長者が果たす。男子なら祖父が膝に抱いて食べさせる真似をすることが多い。「飯椀→汁物→飯椀→焼き物」の順に食べ物を口元へ持っていき食べる真似をさせる。一般的な意味としては赤ちゃんを育ててくれる親という意味の言葉で伝統的な儀式の場では「長寿にあやかる」という大切な願いが込められた役割を指す。
　●「歯固めの儀」　小石を用意しその小石を赤ちゃんにかませ「歯が丈夫になりますように」と祈願する。この小石は半紙に包み臍の緒と一緒に保存する。〜〜
　・・・ということだそうです。
　伝統的価値観からは比較的自由で、インターナショナルな価値観を受け入れ続けてきた北海道人には興味深く、いかにも「伝統的な人生儀礼」という気分でおりました。こういう通過儀礼が、北海道と九州人の結縁としてはふさわしいとも思っておりました。ニコニコと無事役目を完遂。孫は箸を口元に持っていくと、なんだかわからないままごく自然に「咥えよう」と反応（笑）。
　この儀礼前には「水天宮総本宮」を無事の成長祈願のために参詣。源平の壇ノ浦で崩壊した平家の一位の局が、安徳天皇の御霊を慰めるために筑後川のほとりに祀ったのが始原とされる。
　久留米のひとにとってこの水天宮は全国に広がる水天宮信仰の発祥地という強い思いがある。日曜日なので、たくさんの参詣者で、本殿内でありがたく神主さんの「お祝い」を受けさせていただいていました。クライマックスではまるで「瀧の水音」のような神楽鈴からの妙なる美音を浴びさせていただいていた。
　〝養い親〟として神妙に、しかし内心では合理的北海道人の伝統的日本文化体験として、目が「醒まささる」思いで、たのしく過ごさせていただいた。キョトンとしつつもときどき笑顔を見せて神妙にしていた孫ともども、こういったご縁に深く感謝。
　昨日の「怨念」的告白とは隔絶・超絶の神妙体験の１日（笑）。

●お知らせ
拙書「作家と住空間」幻冬舎から電子書籍で発刊
お求めはAmazonで。
https://amzn.asia/d/eUiv9yO

English version⬇

[Visiting Suitengu Shrine: Experiencing the Role of “Foster Parents” at the Okuizome Ceremony]
As a Hokkaido native accustomed to an international mindset, experiencing this kind of traditional rite of passage was a real eye-opener. It was a solemn yet joyful occasion filled with gratitude…

　The main purpose of this trip was to participate in a rite of passage for my grandson, marking the “bond” between people from Hokkaido and Kyushu.
In line with that, I was able to share this life “ceremony” with my grandson. As a Hokkaido native born after the war, this was a “first-time experience” for me—something I had never experienced before. Moreover, as the “eldest male” among the relatives of the boy, I also served as the “godparent” for the Okuizome ceremony.
　The relatives had provided the following “protocol” online in advance, and I carried out my duties accordingly. Here is a summary.
　〜■How to Perform the Okuizome Ceremony: The oldest person sharing the baby’s surname performs this role. For a boy, the grandfather often holds the baby on his lap and mimics feeding him. The food is brought to the baby’s mouth in the order of “rice bowl → soup → rice bowl → grilled dish,” and the baby is made to mimic eating. In general terms, this refers to the parents who raise the baby, but in the context of this traditional ceremony, the role carries the important wish to “share in the baby’s longevity.”
　● “Teeth-Hardening Ceremony” (Hagatame no Gi): A small stone is prepared and placed in the baby’s mouth while praying, “May your teeth grow strong.” This stone is wrapped in rice paper and preserved along with the umbilical cord. ~~
　…That’s apparently how it goes.
　As someone from Hokkaido—a region relatively free from traditional values and one that has consistently embraced international perspectives—I found this fascinating and truly felt the atmosphere of a “traditional rite of passage.” I also thought that such a rite of passage was fitting as a bond between people from Hokkaido and Kyushu. I completed my role with a smile. When my grandchild brought the chopsticks to their mouth, they instinctively reacted as if to “bite down” on them, without really knowing what was happening (laughs).
　Before the ceremony, we visited the “Suiten-gu Sohon-gu” shrine to pray for his safe growth. It is said to have originated when Lady Ichii of the Heike clan, whose family was defeated at the Battle of Dan-no-ura between the Genji and Heike clans, enshrined Emperor Antoku’s spirit on the banks of the Chikugo River to console him.
For the people of Kurume, this Suiten-gu holds a strong significance as the birthplace of the Suiten-gu faith that has spread throughout the country. Since it was Sunday, the shrine was crowded with worshippers, and we were grateful to receive the Shinto priest’s “blessings” inside the main hall. At the climax, we were treated to the wondrous, beautiful sound of the kagura bells, which sounded just like “the rush of a waterfall.”
As a “foster parent,” I behaved reverently, though inwardly, as a rational Hokkaido native experiencing traditional Japanese culture, I felt my eyes being “opened” and had a wonderful time. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity, along with my grandchild, who looked a bit bewildered but occasionally smiled and remained solemn.
It was a day of profound spiritual experience, a world apart from yesterday’s “vengeful” confession (laughs).

● Announcement
My book, “Writers and Living Spaces,” has been published as an e-book by Gentosha.
Available on Amazon.

　
　

Posted on 5月 25th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
Filed under: 未分類 | No Comments »

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