本文へジャンプ

【謹白 清華亭様　石山軟石の敷石パクりました・・・】


　昨日は孫にはじめての「安藤忠雄建築体験」機会ということで「こども本の森 札幌北大」に行かせておりました。「行かせて」というのは、同行はカミさんと息子の嫁さん・孫の母のふたりに任せて、私は別行動で、ご近所の明治建築「清華亭」を再度体験していたからです。
　「こども本の森 札幌北大」の方では１日20人限定の「当日入場」が叶ったワケですが、孫は元気いっぱいに「ハイハイ」してくれたようで、安藤建築に触れたよろこびを爆発させていたようです（笑）。ジジバカもうれしい。読み聞かせの絵本の方では目が泳ぎ続けていたそうですが、まぁ先は長い。焦らずジックリ、読書というのはその人間の人生とほぼ同期する長期戦であります。６ヶ月の幼児には読書はできないけれど、読書には人類社会が続いてきた文化としての空気感の格調がある。それをカラダいっぱいに「浴びる」ことは非常にすばらしい。安藤さんの考え方に深く敬意を表します。
　ということでクルマでの送迎役なので選に漏れざるを得なかったわたしは、写真の清華亭へ。
　この建築はわたしのこのブログでも以前に「北海道の開拓期の創生期建築」として書いていたのですが、最近、修復工事が終わっていたようなので、歩いて５分ほどの距離なので、再訪。で、わたしは明治天皇が北海道開拓に込められた熱意を、このはじめての訪問に感じられると思っています。
　溌剌とした明治国家の創意が込められた開拓のつち音、一刻もはやくその地を訪れたいと祈念された様子に深く敬意を抱くものです。わたしたち北海道人が根底にもつ心意。そのはじめての来訪のときに「小休所」として、北海道初の「公園」として整備された「偕楽園」のなかに建てられた。歴史事実としても明治帝はこの施設で一時を過ごされた。


　開拓の状況をお知らせしようと、道産木材で建てられたとされている。
　内部でもその大径木の道産木材の天井張り板などから、心意気が伝わってくる。
　なんですが、わたし的には天皇が足を踏まれた敷石にまで「石山軟石」という地元産材が使われたことにある感慨を持たされた。で、わが家の玄関前にも「踏み石」として石山軟石を生産工場に買いに行って、60×30cmの材を３枚敷き込んである。
　個人的には自分自身の「歴史好き」の心情と建築に関連して生きてきたことのフックを意識させてもらった。パクリについてこころ爽やかに告白。・・・

●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⬇

[A Humble Note to Seikatei: We’ve “borrowed” your Ishiyama soft stone paving stones…]
Both those reporting on the achievements of the colonization efforts and the young Emperor Meiji, who received the report, connected through their shared experience of the Seikatei’s architecture. I can only try to follow in their footsteps, however faintly. …

　Yesterday, since it was my grandson’s first chance to experience Tadao Ando’s architecture, I sent him to “Children’s Book Forest: Sapporo Hokkaido University.” I say “sent him” because I left him in the care of my wife and my son’s wife—my grandson’s mother—while I went off on my own to revisit the Meiji-era “Seikatei” building in our neighborhood.
　At “Children’s Book Forest, Hokkaido University, Sapporo,” they managed to secure one of the 20 same-day admission spots available each day. My grandson was apparently crawling around full of energy, bursting with joy at getting to experience Ando’s architecture (laughs). This doting grandpa is happy too. I heard his eyes kept darting around during the picture book reading session, but well, he’s got a long road ahead of him. Take your time and don’t rush—reading is a long-term endeavor that runs almost parallel to a person’s entire life. A six-month-old infant can’t actually “read,” but reading possesses a certain dignity and atmosphere as a culture that has sustained human society. To “soak in” that with every fiber of one’s being is truly wonderful. I have the deepest respect for Mr. Ando’s philosophy.
So, since I was the designated driver and couldn’t join them, I headed to Seikatei, shown in the photo.
　I’d previously written about this building on my blog as an example of “architecture from the formative period of Hokkaido’s settlement,” and since restoration work seemed to have recently been completed—and it’s only about a five-minute walk away—I decided to revisit it. I believe that on this first visit, one can sense the passion that Emperor Meiji poured into the development of Hokkaido.
　I have deep respect for the vibrant creativity of the Meiji state that was poured into the pioneering efforts, and for the Emperor’s earnest desire to visit the land as soon as possible. This spirit lies at the very foundation of us Hokkaido residents. The pavilion was built within “Kairakuen,” which was developed as a “resting place” and Hokkaido’s first “park” during the Emperor’s inaugural visit. Historically, it is a fact that Emperor Meiji spent some time at this facility.

　It is said to have been built with Hokkaido-grown timber to showcase the progress of the region’s development.
　Inside, too, the spirit behind the project comes through in details such as the ceiling planks made from large-diameter Hokkaido timber.
　However, what truly moved me was the fact that even the stepping stones where the Emperor walked were made from “Ishiyama Soft Stone,” a locally sourced material. So, I went to a factory to buy Ishiyama soft stone to use as “stepping stones” in front of my own home’s entrance, and I’ve laid three 60×30 cm slabs there.
　Personally, this made me aware of the connection between my own passion for history and the fact that I’ve spent my life involved in architecture. A refreshing confession about copying. …

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

　
　

Posted on 8月 16th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
Filed under: 未分類 | No Comments »

【「庭を愛でる」ことが日本の家文化の本流なのかなぁ？】


　写真は大分県杵築市の「杵築城」周辺の武家屋敷の庭のたたずまい。臨池式庭園の「格式高い」庭を愛でることが住空間としての最大着目点だったと思える造作の住宅。
　庭はたしかにその地域の自然を知る・楽しむ大きな装置であることはまったくその通りだと思う。異論は無いけれど、しかしわたしは北海道の冬の積雪状況を知った札幌人。冬になると雪山に覆われ、庭の視覚的楽しみはまったく消滅する気候環境のなかで生きてきた。
　まずなにより冬の寒さという最大障壁をどうするのか、が住宅建設の最大関心事。庭を愛でるという要素は精神生活上でもウェートは低い。高級住宅で「庭への目線」を重視した住宅を取材で冬に見ることもあった。
　当然、庭の様子を最大の楽しみに広い縁側・開放的開口部を持つ室内からの視線が、屋根からの落雪がうずたかくその視線を遮る期間が３−４ヶ月にもなる。そんな家が「高級住宅のステータス」だとは、どうしても思えなかった。
　３−４ヶ月の喪失忍耐期間のうえ愛でるための用意期間が１−２ヶ月とすれば、ほぼ半年は苦役の時間。
　こういう住宅では室内空間からの視線的快感の「眺め」が最重視される。北海道ではそんな「楽しみ」は吹きすさぶ寒風ブリザードの襲来で吹っ飛んでいく。
　実際、住み手の方からも「まぁ冬はこんなもんですけどね・・・」というため息交じりの感想を聞くことが多かった。やはり「庭が最高の高級住宅の条件」という価値観は持ちにくいのが北国人。
　一方で周囲の環境は広大で野趣に満ちた大自然環境が展開していて、その圧倒的美感からは、強烈な刺激を受け続けてきた。それには庭程度は敵いようがない。
　そういう太刀打ちできない美感に対して、相対的に圧倒的に狭い自分の敷地のなかの庭を重視するという心理はほぼ無かった。だいたい、冬囲いやら樹木の枝の養生を考えるようなことはやっていられないのが普通の感覚。
　それに対して本州地域の「武家住宅」ではこれ見よがしにドヤ顔で臨池式回遊庭園が最大の趣味関心事として提示されている。もちろんそういう文化伝統には敬意を持つけれど、彼我の極端な環境の違いに醒めた目線になる。
　立派なお庭ですね、すごいなぁ・・・と。
　しかし、その上で寒冷地ニッポン人の異次元の庭文化を密かに心待ちしてもいる。

●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⬇

[Is “appreciating the garden” really the mainstream of Japanese home culture?]
As someone from a cold region who’s had to spend nearly half a year feeling left out, I find it hard to wholeheartedly agree with this part… (sob).

　The photo shows the ambiance of the gardens at samurai residences surrounding “Kitsuki Castle” in Kitsuki City, Oita Prefecture. This custom-built home seems to have been designed with the primary focus on appreciating the “distinguished” beauty of the pond-style garden as a living space.
　I completely agree that a garden is indeed a major means of understanding and enjoying the nature of the region. I have no objection to that, but I am a Sapporo native who knows firsthand the snow conditions of Hokkaido winters. I have lived in a climate where, come winter, the landscape is blanketed by snow, and the visual pleasure of a garden vanishes entirely.
　First and foremost, the biggest concern in home construction is how to deal with the greatest obstacle: the winter cold. The element of appreciating the garden carries little weight in my spiritual life. I have occasionally visited luxury homes during winter for reporting purposes that emphasized “views of the garden.”
　Naturally, in homes designed to make the garden the greatest source of enjoyment—with spacious engawa and open interior spaces offering views of the outdoors—snow piling up from the roof blocks that view for as long as three to four months. I simply could not bring myself to believe that such a house represented the “status of a high-end home.”
　If you consider the three- to four-month period of endurance followed by a one- to two-month period of preparation to appreciate the garden, nearly half a year is spent in hardship.
　In homes like this, the visual pleasure of the “view” from the interior space is given the highest priority. In Hokkaido, however, such “pleasure” is blown away by the onslaught of howling cold winds and blizzards.
　In fact, I often heard residents sigh and remark, “Well, that’s just how it is in winter…” Indeed, it’s difficult for people in the northern regions to embrace the value that “a garden is the ultimate criterion for a luxury home.”
　On the other hand, the surrounding landscape unfolds as a vast, wild natural environment, and I have been constantly inspired by its overwhelming beauty. A mere garden simply cannot compete with that.
　Faced with such unrivaled beauty, there was virtually no psychological inclination to place importance on the garden within my own, relatively tiny plot of land. Generally speaking, it’s only natural not to have the time or inclination to worry about winter protection for plants or pruning tree branches.
　In contrast, in the “samurai residences” of Honshu, strolling gardens with a pond are presented—almost ostentatiously—as the greatest hobby and passion. Of course, I have respect for such cultural traditions, but I view the extreme difference in our environments with a sober eye.
“What a magnificent garden—it’s amazing…”
However, even so, I secretly look forward to the garden culture of cold-climate Japanese people, which exists on a whole different level.

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

Posted on 8月 15th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
Filed under: 未分類 | No Comments »

【蓮の花と「陶棺」 日本人の死生観】



　きのうは「迎え盆」として札幌里塚に集中しているわたしの関わる墓域をめぐっておりました。
　墓参がどうしても集中する日なので、早朝からカミさんと用意段取りして自宅を出発し、墓域周辺で子どもたちと合流して墓参。その後、焼き肉パーティ風のヘビー級朝ご飯を里塚霊園にも近い清田区の方の家で楽しみました。現代人、そして子どもたちに「継承」する大切な機縁として「ひと工夫」しているわけです。
　無事に終わりましたが、カミさんは前日の買い物から食べものの用意・切り分け段取りと大車輪。わたしもヘルプとしてほぼ全行程に労役しておりました。修行に近いかなぁ（笑）。帰宅後は爆睡、爆睡・・・
　まぁそういう特異日なので、写真は最近、移動していた各地での「死生観」関連写真。
　上は、東京都内で参観していた山梨県笛吹市御坂町の古墳から出土の「陶棺」。
　〜陶棺は土師質で類例のない形状をしており、蓋や身に連続三角文などを斜線・三角文・方形区画で線刻し彩色を施している。彩色は赤・青・白・緑（？）などで塗り分けられ、九州の装飾古墳にも稀なほどの鮮やかさ。陶棺のつくりは畿内とも異なり、東国の埴輪に見られる彩色に近いとも言えるが、山梨県内では類似する埴輪の出土は極めて少ない。陶棺の長さは111cm、身の高さ49cm、棺蓋の長さ42,5cmを測り10個の脚を有する。陶棺の規模から見て成人にしては小さすぎ、小児用もしくは火葬骨を入れたと考えられる。古墳の時期を確定する遺物は少なく、現地の石室に使われた石材などから古墳時代後期と思われる。〜引用文献：國學院大學『考古学資料紀要』第15輯。
　一方、その下の写真はお盆らしい花として「蓮の花」。札幌北大でもサクシュコトニ川の遊水池に咲いていますが、この写真は東京・上野の不忍池のもの。インドが原産地らしい重厚な「ぼってり」感がいかにも蒸暑の気候を伝えてくる。泥水のような環境から育ちながらも美しい花を咲かせる姿が、煩悩に満ちた世の中で悟りを開く仏教の教えと重なるため、聖なる花として寺院などで大切に栽培されてきた、お馴染みのお姿。
　仏教という外来宗教の導入以前と以降の、日本人の死生観デザインの分脈が明瞭と思えます。

　さて、自分もやがて・・・という年齢に達してきて、わが家系の流れもたどりつつ、墓碑に刻まれた先祖の名前を見ながら、しばし黙然としておりました。合掌。

●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⬇

[Lotus Flowers and “Clay Coffins”: The Japanese View of Life and Death]
Setting aside the lotus flowers for a moment, I am struck by the way “ancestral spirits” were venerated before the introduction of Buddhism. My thoughts wander to the sentiment behind adding such “design” elements to a person’s death. …

　Yesterday, as part of the “Mukae-bon” (pre-Obon) festivities, I visited the gravesites I’m involved with, which are concentrated in the Satotsuka area of Sapporo.
　Since this is a day when grave visits inevitably peak, my wife and I got everything ready early in the morning, left home, met up with the kids near the gravesites, and paid our respects. Afterward, we enjoyed a hearty breakfast—almost like a yakiniku party—at a home in the Kiyota Ward, which is also close to Satotsuka Cemetery. I’m putting a little extra thought into this as an important opportunity to “pass on” traditions to modern people—and especially to the children.
　It all went smoothly, but my wife was running around like crazy, from shopping the day before to preparing and portioning out the food. I also pitched in to help with almost every step of the process. It was almost like a spiritual training (laughs). After getting home, I slept like a log, and then some…
Well, since it was such a special day, here are some recent photos related to “views on life and death” that I took while traveling around various places.
The photo above shows a “ceramic coffin” excavated from a burial mound in Misaka-cho, Fuefuki City, Yamanashi Prefecture, which I visited while in Tokyo.
　~The earthenware coffin is made of Haji clay and has a unique shape. The lid and body are engraved with continuous triangular patterns, diagonal lines, and square compartments, and then painted. The colors—red, blue, white, and green (?)—are distinctly separated, and the vibrancy is so striking that it is rare even among decorated kofun in Kyushu. The construction of the ceramic coffin differs from that found in the Kinai region; while its coloring is similar to that seen in haniwa from the eastern regions, similar haniwa have been unearthed extremely rarely within Yamanashi Prefecture. The ceramic coffin measures 111 cm in length, 49 cm in height, and the coffin lid measures 42.5 cm in length; it has ten legs. Given its size, the coffin is too small for an adult and is believed to have been intended for a child or to have contained cremated remains. There are few artifacts that can definitively date the burial mound, but based on the stone materials used in the on-site stone chamber, it is believed to date to the Late Kofun Period. — Source: Kokugakuin University, *Bulletin of Archaeological Materials*, Vol. 15.
Meanwhile, the photo below shows a “lotus flower,” which is often associated with the Obon festival. While they also bloom in the flood control basin of the Sakushukotoni River near Hokkaido University in Sapporo, this photo was taken at Shinobazu Pond in Ueno, Tokyo. Native to India, its robust, “plump” appearance perfectly conveys the sweltering, humid climate. The sight of these flowers blooming beautifully despite growing in muddy water mirrors the Buddhist teaching of attaining enlightenment in a world filled with worldly desires; as such, they have long been cherished and cultivated as sacred flowers in temples and other sacred sites—a familiar sight to many.
　It seems clear that there is a distinct lineage in the design of Japanese views on life and death, both before and after the introduction of Buddhism, a foreign religion.

　Now that I’ve reached an age where I too will eventually… I found myself standing in silence for a while, tracing the lineage of my family and gazing at the names of my ancestors engraved on the tombstones. I clasped my hands in prayer.

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

　

Posted on 8月 14th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
Filed under: 未分類 | No Comments »

【最高気温33度の緑に包まれた元気な散歩】



　昨日のブログ、こどもの本の森に感想が寄せられました。建築家・安藤忠雄の寄贈であることは触れませんでしたが、その設計「本意」はまっすぐに伝わってきていました。孫が「オレ、安藤忠雄って建築家のこどもへのやさしさ、体験してきているぜ！」と話すようになるのではと想像していました（笑）。
　
　で、昨日はついに朝から30度を超える気温に包まれた札幌。
　こういうときは緑の中の「木陰」つたいに歩くのが快適と考えて、散歩コースの中でもいちばん「緑化率」の高い西野緑道コースを選択。カミさんもその前日から「ちょっと行こうかな」とのことだったので、昨日も同行。
　わたし的には30度超えとは言っても、木陰のクールダウンポイントを伝い歩きするのが、それはそれで楽しいのですが、カミさんは早々にキャンセルして乗ってきたクルマに戻って、エアコン環境へ帰還。
　いたわりつつも、わたしはめげずにトータル8,000歩強、１時間半ほどの散策へ。
　その後、１日トータルではほぼ通常ペースで、11,586歩を元気に歩いておりました。
　やはり蒸暑の木々のなかを歩くと、いかにも天国に近づいているような想念がアタマのなかに盛り上がる。ナナカマドはすでに色づきはじめていて、この蒸暑の先には一気にクールダウンする季節が顔を覗かせてくれている。
　しかし毎日1万歩超のわたしでも、さすがにこれくらいの気温環境では、すこし休憩したくなって途中のベンチで、しばし蒼天の空を仰ぎ見ておりました。木々を超えた真夏の空の重い青が蠱惑的に感じられる。
　クルマに戻ったら、エアコンのなかで元気回復のカミさんが笑顔。まぁムリせず、ですね。
　その後、本日のお盆墓参り〜親族での焼き肉パーティ用の大量食料買いだしで、お店４箇所をグルグル。お店とお店の間では散歩歩数をふたたび稼ぐこともできたわたしですが、カミさんはお店のエアコンのなかで元気いっぱいにあれこれと元気に「買い出し」を満喫しておりました。大量荷物運搬でわたしはふたたび歩数追加ゲット。
　ということですが、日頃の散歩習慣のおかげでピンピン状態の維持が続いております。
　天国に一番近い，北国の真夏、たのしく乗りきりたいですね。

●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⬇

[A Brisk Walk Surrounded by Greenery with a High of 33 Degrees]
After all, the midsummer in the northern regions—where it’s hot but “dry”—is the closest thing to heaven. I’m completely enchanted by the heat, the light breeze, and the message from the greenery. …

　I received some feedback on yesterday’s blog post about the Children’s Book Forest. Although I didn’t mention that it was a donation from architect Tadao Ando, the “true intent” behind his design came across clearly. I found myself imagining my grandson one day saying, “Man, I’ve actually experienced the kindness that architect Tadao Ando has for kids!” (laughs).
　
　So, yesterday, Sapporo was finally enveloped in temperatures exceeding 30 degrees from the morning onward.
　I figured that on days like this, it’s most comfortable to walk along the “shade of the trees” amidst the greenery, so I chose the Nishino Greenway course—the one with the highest “greenery coverage” among my walking routes. My wife had been saying since the day before, “Maybe I’ll go for a bit,” so she joined me again yesterday.
　Personally, even though it was over 30 degrees, I actually enjoy walking along the cooling spots in the shade—but my wife called it quits early and headed back to the car we’d driven there, returning to the comfort of the air conditioning.
　While being considerate of her, I didn’t let it get me down and continued on my own for a stroll of just over 8,000 steps, lasting about an hour and a half.
　After that, I walked briskly at my usual pace for the rest of the day, racking up a total of 11,586 steps.
　As always, walking through the muggy, green trees fills my mind with the feeling that I’m getting closer to heaven. The mountain ash trees were already beginning to change color, and beyond this muggy heat, the season of sudden cooling was peeking through.
　However, even for someone like me who walks over 10,000 steps every day, at temperatures like this, I naturally felt the need for a short break, so I sat on a bench along the way and gazed up at the azure sky for a while. The heavy blue of the midsummer sky stretching beyond the trees felt mesmerizing.
　When I got back to the car, my wife was smiling, having regained her energy in the air-conditioned cabin. Well, no need to push it, I suppose.
　After that, for today’s Obon grave visit and to stock up on a massive amount of food for a family barbecue, we drove around to four different stores. While I was able to rack up more steps by walking between stores, my wife was full of energy, happily “shopping” for all sorts of things inside the air-conditioned stores. Carrying all that heavy shopping, I racked up even more steps.
　That said, thanks to my daily walking routine, I’m still going strong.
　I want to enjoy this midsummer in the northern lands—the place closest to heaven—to the fullest.

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

Posted on 8月 13th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
Filed under: 未分類 | No Comments »

【こども本の森 札幌・北大、いいね】



　昨日からはお盆休暇が一般的になってきました。
　高齢者の早朝散歩でもすこし変化があって、朝ご飯を遅めにしてふだんなかなか来られない北大構内散歩を夫婦一緒で行って参りました。ヒグマ騒動以来、札幌の真ん中にあって周囲の広大な自然林からは、幹線道路群によってほぼ孤立しているのに、太古のこの地のたたずまいが薫っている北大構内の魅力を味わっています。
　ただ、北大まではクルマで駐車場への移動になるので、ひとりのときは逆にメンドイ。
　気分的にもゆったりできる休暇日には格好と思った次第。
　案の定、北大の学生さんや教職員のみなさんも少なめで、また観光客も少なくゆったり散歩8000歩以上。
　で、休日中に「孫預かり」予定もあるのでいま話題の「こども本の森 札幌・北大」を事前チェック。あ、この施設は主に「事前予約制」であり、予定する日はすでにいっぱいなのですが、当方の孫はまだ「本を読む」ことはできない年齢なので、読書の雰囲気に馴染ませることが主目的。
　最近、日本人の本離れが指摘されますが、やはり読書は最高の「認識」向上機会。本離れが加速するほど、逆に読書習慣はその重要度が増していくのではないかと予想しています。とくに「想像力」が増進する童話や、子ども向けの本は、文化認識の基盤として重要度が増してくると思われます。
　そんな想いで、こちらの施設を参観してみた次第。もちろん早朝なので開場前でもあり、周辺のたたずまい、雰囲気を味わうのが主眼。
　思いの通り、北大構内のサクシュコトニ川のほとりで緑あふれる環境立地。周辺には大好きな川の水の「吹き出し口」があって、いのちの循環感に満ちている雰囲気。北大正門にもほど近い。
　そして緑の環境の中、正面側壁面はすべてガラス張りで、のびやかな曲面で構成されている。ガラス越しに内部空間が視認できますが、本の選択に於いてもたいへん工夫されていることがうかがわれた。一度はこの空間の中で本が醸し出す「世界観」を涵養することは成長を促してくれると勝手に想像していました。
　北大の空間は日本でダントツの雰囲気環境で、世界全体でも第７位という解説もありますが、自然と「学ばさる」（若干北海道弁）環境だと思えます。さて、孫はどういう「反応」を示すか、楽しみ。
　まぁ、ボーッとしている一択でしょうが（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⬇

[Children’s Book Forest, Sapporo/Hokkaido University—Thumbs Up!]
I don’t get to come here very often, but a new library for young children has opened on the Hokkaido University campus. I really resonate with this concept. My doting grandparent mode is in full swing…

　Since yesterday, the Obon holiday has generally begun.
There’s been a slight change in our early-morning walks as well; we had a late breakfast and went for a walk together as a couple on the Hokkaido University campus—a place we don’t usually get to visit. Ever since the brown bear incident, even though the campus is located right in the heart of Sapporo and is almost completely isolated from the vast natural forests surrounding it by a network of major roads, we’ve been savoring the charm of the Hokkaido University campus, which exudes the atmosphere of this land’s ancient past.
　However, since we have to drive to the parking lot at Hokkaido University, it’s actually a bit of a hassle when I’m alone.
　I figured it would be perfect for a holiday when I wanted to take it easy.
　Sure enough, there were relatively few Hokkaido University students, faculty, and staff, and few tourists as well, so we enjoyed a leisurely stroll of over 8,000 steps.
　Also, since I’m scheduled to “babysit” my grandchild over the holiday, I checked out the much-talked-about “Children’s Book Forest Sapporo・Hokkaido University” in advance. Oh, this facility operates primarily on an “advance reservation system,” and the dates I had in mind were already fully booked. However, since my grandchild isn’t yet old enough to “read books,” my main goal is simply to acclimate them to the atmosphere of reading.
　Lately, there’s been talk about Japanese people drifting away from books, but reading is still the best opportunity to enhance “cognitive development.” I predict that the more this trend accelerates, the more important the habit of reading will become. In particular, children’s books and fairy tales—which foster “imagination”—are likely to grow in importance as the foundation of cultural awareness.
　With these thoughts in mind, I decided to visit this facility. Of course, since it was early in the morning, it wasn’t open yet, so my main focus was on taking in the surroundings and atmosphere.
As I had imagined, it’s located in a lush, green setting along the Sakushkotoni River on the Hokkaido University campus. Nearby is a “spout” where water flows from the river—a feature I love—creating an atmosphere brimming with a sense of the cycle of life. It’s also quite close to the main gate of Hokkaido University.
　Set amidst this green environment, the front facade is entirely glass and features graceful, curved surfaces. While the interior space is visible through the glass, I could tell that great care had been taken in the selection of books. I couldn’t help but imagine that spending time in this space, immersing oneself in the “worldview” evoked by the books, would foster personal growth.
　Hokkaido University’s campus boasts an atmosphere that is unrivaled in Japan—some sources even rank it seventh in the world—and I feel it’s an environment where one is naturally “taught” (to use a bit of Hokkaido dialect). Now, I’m looking forward to seeing what kind of “reaction” my grandchild will have.
Well, I suppose the only option is for him to just zone out (laughs).

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

　

Posted on 8月 12th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
Filed under: 未分類 | No Comments »

【岡山県「後月」郡、この地名って読めますか？】



　家系史の探究について、昨日までで直近の重要地域・文献調査が一段落。
　江戸期の「宿駅」間の経済交流の実態を調査確認するのに岡山県「井原市史」を読解してきていますが、必要箇所についてはおおむね確認作業が完了。これから分析作業になるところ。わが家系は、山陽道の宿駅として尾道の東隣の「今津」が故地。その地域産業「松永塩田」に依拠した経済活動で江戸後期を生きていた。
　山陽道の宿駅として東隣に「神辺」があり、その先に岡山藩領の「井原」。その地の有力家と人脈コネクションを形成してきていた。
　作業としては順調に推移しているのですが、どうしても引っかかっているのが地名。
　この井原は「後月」という明治以降の郡名地域。
　資料でなんどもこの郡名が出てくるのですがまったく馴染めない（泣）。人間は読みがアタマのなかで残響して、馴染み感覚が生起してモノゴトの整理整頓がついていくのだと思う。
　しかしこの「後月」の読みが「しつき」だとわかってからも、どうも残響してくれない。
　さっぱり現場感・馴染みが持てないのです。家系史ではこの地域の人びととの関係が幕末から明治以降、非常に大きなポイントになる地域なのにであります。わたしの祖母の「生地」でもありその家系伝承の掘り起こしは最重要。なので近々この地を探訪予定でもあります。
　「後」という字を「しり」と読む北海道の「後志〜後方羊蹄〜しりべし」という地名もあるので、まったくわからないではないのです。日本語古語としてそのような「読み方」はあったのでしょう。
　AIの「後月〜しつき」読みについての解説は以下。
　〜名前の由来と歴史
　1.先進地域として渡来人や古代の職業集団（部民）が定住した古代・吉備国は、朝鮮に近い瀬戸内の海上交通の要所。優れた技術を持つ渡来系集団が多く移り住んだ。朝廷に仕える職能集団も多く配置されたため、彼らの言葉や集団名に漢字を当てた結果、独特の地名が残った。
　2.「好字二字化」による強引な漢字の当てはめ。奈良時代、元明天皇の命により「地名には漢字2文字で縁起の良い文字（好字）を使え」というルール（風土記編纂の詔）が出された。これにより「しつき（足次）」地名に対し、意味を無視して強引に「後月」の2文字が割り振られた。現代人がパッと見で読めない地名が誕生した。
　3.古代の言葉の「発音の変化」　何千年も前の「古代日本語の響き」がなまり変化した結果、漢字本来の読み方からかけ離れてしまったケース。〜〜
　まぁ、郷に入らば従え。なんとか習慣化したい。え〜っと「しつき」か・・・。

　
●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⬇
　
[“Shitsuki” District, Okayama Prefecture—Can You Pronounce This Place Name?]
First of all, I can’t pronounce it (lol). Apparently, it’s “Shitsuki.” It just doesn’t stick in my head. It doesn’t click. I’m planning to visit there soon. I’m going to get used to it! …

　Regarding my genealogical research, I’ve just wrapped up the most recent phase of fieldwork and literature review as of yesterday.
　I’ve been studying the *History of Ibara City* in Okayama Prefecture to investigate and verify the actual state of economic exchange between “post stations” during the Edo period, and I’ve largely completed the verification process for the relevant sections. Now it’s time to move on to the analysis phase. My family’s ancestral home is “Imazu,” located east of Onomichi, which served as a post station on the Sanyo Road. During the late Edo period, our family sustained itself through economic activities centered on the local industry, the “Matsunaga Salt Fields.”
　To the east of Imazu along the Sanyo Road was “Kannabe,” and beyond that lay “Ibara,” part of the Okayama Domain. We had established connections with influential families in that area.
　The work itself is progressing smoothly, but there’s one thing that just won’t let me go: the place names.
　This “Ibara” is part of a region known as “Shitsuki” since the Meiji era.
　This district name appears repeatedly in the documents, but I just can’t get used to it (sigh). I think that when a pronunciation resonates in our minds, a sense of familiarity arises, allowing us to organize and make sense of things.
　However, even after learning that “Shitsuki” is the reading for “後月,” it just won’t resonate with me.
　I simply can’t get a sense of the place or feel at home there. Yet in my family history research, this region is a crucial focal point for my relationships with the people there, spanning from the end of the Edo period through the Meiji era and beyond. It’s also my grandmother’s “birthplace,” so unearthing the family traditions there is of the utmost importance. That’s why I’m planning to visit the area soon.
　There are place names in Hokkaido—such as “Shiri” (from “Shiribeshi” and “Shiribetsu”)—where the character “後” is read as “shiri,” so it’s not as if I don’t understand the concept at all. Such a “reading” likely existed as an archaic form of Japanese.
　The AI’s explanation of the “Shitsuki” reading for “後月” is as follows.
　~ Origin and History of the Name
　1. Ancient Kibi Province, a leading region where immigrants and ancient occupational groups (bu-min) settled, was a key maritime transportation hub in the Seto Inland Sea, close to Korea. Many immigrant groups possessing advanced skills moved there. Since numerous professional groups serving the imperial court were also stationed there, the application of kanji to their languages and group names resulted in the preservation of unique place names.
　2. Forced application of kanji based on the “two-character auspicious character” rule. During the Nara period, by order of Empress Genmei, a rule was issued (the Imperial Edict on the Compilation of the Fudoki) stating, “Place names must use two auspicious Chinese characters (kōji).” As a result, the place name “Shitsuki” (足次) was forcibly assigned the two characters “Gotsuki” (後月), disregarding its original meaning. This gave rise to place names that modern people cannot read at a glance.
　3. “Pronunciation Changes” in Ancient Language: Cases where the “sounds of ancient Japanese” from thousands of years ago have evolved through dialectal changes, resulting in pronunciations that have drifted far from the original readings of the kanji. ~~
Well, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. I’ll try to get used to it somehow. Um… “Shitsuki,” I guess…

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

Posted on 8月 11th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
Filed under: 未分類 | No Comments »

【大分／宇佐国は古代以来、九州屈指の聖域】


　ようやく全県踏破の最終地・大分県を巡り歩くことができた。少年期、修学旅行以外でははじめて旅行できたのがいきなりヨーロッパだったことで、帰国後いわば渇望するように京都や奈良の空気に湿潤したくなって、日本というものを心底、体感したかった。そういう時間を持てたことを深く感謝している。その後の人生で、遠隔地を歩く、知らない日本を巡るということは、最上の「数寄」になっていった人間。仕事の領域選択でもこのことは心理の基底で揺り動かしてくれていたと思う。
　それがようやく人生最終盤で「全地域・全県制覇」として叶えられたことが率直に嬉しい（笑）。やっと来られたぜ大分、であります。そのことを敬して「大分県立歴史博物館」逍遥させていただいた。
　＜太古の昔、宇佐は九州屈指の聖域！
　宇佐平野を南から北へ流れる駅館川（やっかんがわ）東岸の台地上に、3世紀後半から6世紀に造られた前方後円墳6基を含む、数多くの古墳からなる川部・高森古墳群がある。宇佐風土記の丘はその地の史跡公園。
　ここは宇佐平野を見渡す丘にあり、長い間地域有力者たちが眠る聖域。とくに3世紀後半に造られた赤塚古墳は前方後円墳であることから、宇佐地域が九州で最も早くヤマト政権との結びつきを深めたことを示している。
　古代日本では地域の有力者が「国造（くにのみやつこ）」に任命された。古事記には宇佐国造として「宇沙都比古・宇沙都比売（うさつひこ・うさつひめ）」の名がみえる。
　宇佐国造がこの古墳群に葬られた可能性も高く、宇佐がヤマト政権にとって重要な場所だったことを示している。そういう重要地だから7、8世紀に仏教文化や八幡神文化が宇佐において盛んになっていく。〜宇佐風土記の丘の案内文より〜＞
　古代「女系」天皇制になってしまう危機があった。女性天皇・称徳帝（孝謙上皇）との恋愛関係を利用した道鏡は、政治権力を握り次の天皇になろうとした。この日本国の男系男子の皇統の危機を救ったのが、宇佐神宮の神意（和気清麻呂による託宣）。
　そういう古代以来の国家の深淵たる知恵が深く根付いている地域。
　そしてこの九州から瀬戸内海を経てヤマト政権と深くつながり、さまざまな面で日本に大きな影響をもたらし続けた地域。北海道人として最後に訪れるのにふさわしいとも思えていました。

●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⬇

[Oita / Usa Province: One of Kyushu’s Most Sacred Sites Since Ancient Times]
This is the land where the divine will of Usa Jingu—which prevented Dōkyō from ascending to the throne—was nurtured. We explore this prefecture, which has preserved its unique cultural traditions within the global context, with deep respect. …

　I was finally able to walk around Oita Prefecture, the last stop on my journey to visit every prefecture in Japan. As a teenager, my first trip outside of school field trips was to Europe—and upon returning home, I found myself yearning to soak in the atmosphere of Kyoto and Nara, as if to quench a deep thirst, and to experience the essence of Japan from the bottom of my heart. I am deeply grateful to have had that time. Throughout the rest of my life, walking through remote areas and exploring the unknown corners of Japan became my greatest “passion.” I believe this desire also served as a fundamental driving force behind my career choices.
It gives me sincere joy that, finally, in the twilight of my life, I’ve been able to fulfill this goal of “conquering every region and every prefecture” (laughs). “I’ve finally made it to Oita,” I thought to myself. Out of respect for that achievement, I took a leisurely stroll through the Oita Prefectural Museum of History.
　

Posted on 8月 10th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
Filed under: 未分類 | No Comments »

【全県歴訪の最後・大分の古民家「ナイショ」の探訪】



　お盆休暇の「前哨戦」のような土日ですが、みなさまいかがお過ごしでしょうか？
　11日には「山の日」の休日もあるので、10日の出社日を挟んではいるけれど、どうも大型の夏期休暇が世間に広がっているように思います。半引退の高齢者には、その世間との対応という印象。
　たぶん多くの「親族」との出会い機会が増えてさまざまに「内緒話」が盛り上がるでしょう。
　そんな気付きから、しばらく忘却していた「日本全県探訪」の個人的体験、最後の地・大分県の個人記録写真集を再見しております。実はこの大分県の古民家、大分市の野津原地区にある「後藤家住宅」の間取りに「ナイショ」という室名が記されていて、内心唸っていたことを思い出した次第。
　上の写真と間取り図がその古民家ですが、このナイショとは「寝所」のことで、家族だけが就寝するための室名だということ。ただ、ナイショという名付けはなかなか言い得て妙。たしかに家族だけでひそひそと「あの人さぁ、チョットさぁ」「うんうん、わかるわかる（笑）」みたいなぶっちゃけ話をホンネそのままにさらけ出し合うのには、格好の場所だと思われました。日本人のある種の諧謔性が室名に反映したのか、それとも逆に室名の由来から習慣言語が発生したのか？
　たぶんその合間のような感覚が漂ってきました。
　一応、検索などでは以下のような解説。
　〜「ないしょ」の語源は仏教の「内証」／自分の内面だけで深く悟る。・・・言葉の移り変わり他人に見えない・分からない⇒外に漏らさない秘密。漢字当て字：のちに「内緒」の字が当てられた。〜とのことでした。
　しかし最近のわたしはAIに「ツッコミ」を入れて重層的関わりを持ちたくなってきているので、さらにこの「大分県の実例」を引用して追究したら、以下の回答。
　〜面白いことに、「ナイショ」という部屋が指す内容は地域によって少し異なります。大分県などの一部地域では家族の「居間」や夫婦の「寝所」を指すことが多いのに対し、長崎県の五島列島などでは「料理をする場所（台所）」を指すなど、いずれも「ゲストの目から隠された生活の裏側」という点では完全に一致しています。〜というように微妙な「深掘り」をドヤ顔してきた（笑）。
　この室名を家族間で言い交わすとき、どのような心理が響きあっていたか、また来訪者がこの室名を聞いたときどういう心象だったか、興味深い。

●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 Final Stop on My Tour of the Prefecture: Exploring “Naisho,” a Traditional House in Oita]
I believe traditional houses represent the very origins of “folklore.” When enveloped by their atmosphere, I can almost feel the breath and thoughts of those who lived here long ago. …

　This weekend feels like a “prelude” to the Obon holiday—how is everyone spending their time?
Since “Mountain Day” is a holiday on the 11th, even though we have to go to work on the 10th in between, it seems like a long summer vacation is taking hold across the country. For seniors like me who are semi-retired, it feels like we’re just going through the motions to keep up with the rest of society.
I imagine there will be more opportunities to meet with “relatives,” and all sorts of “private conversations” will be in full swing.
　Prompted by this realization, I’ve been revisiting my personal photo album documenting my final stop on my “Exploring All of Japan’s Prefectures” journey—Oita Prefecture—a project I’d forgotten about for a while. In fact, I recalled how I was secretly impressed when I noticed the room name “Naisho” listed on the floor plan of this traditional Oita house, the “Goto Family Residence,” located in the Nozuhara district of Oita City.
　The photo and floor plan above show that traditional house. It turns out that “Naisho” actually means “sleeping quarters”—a room designated solely for the family to sleep in. Still, the name “Naisho” is quite apt. It certainly seemed like the perfect place for family members to whisper candidly to one another, sharing their true feelings without holding back: “You know that person… just a little…” “Yeah, yeah, I know, I know (laughs).” Did a certain Japanese sense of humor get reflected in the room’s name, or did the colloquial usage actually stem from the origin of the name?
　I got the feeling it was somewhere in between.
　For reference, here’s an explanation I found online:
　~ The etymology of “naisho” comes from the Buddhist term “naishō” (内証) / achieving deep enlightenment solely within oneself. …The evolution of the word: “invisible or unknown to others” ⇒ “a secret not revealed to the outside world.” Kanji adaptation: Later, the characters for “内緒” (naisho) were assigned to it. ~That’s what it said.
　However, lately I’ve been wanting to engage in a multi-layered dialogue by “poking fun” at AI, so when I cited this “real-life example from Oita Prefecture” to probe further, I received the following response.
　~Interestingly, the meaning of a room called “Naisho” varies slightly by region. While in some areas, such as Oita Prefecture, it often refers to the family “living room” or a couple’s “bedroom,” in places like the Goto Islands of Nagasaki Prefecture, it refers to the “place where cooking is done (kitchen).” In all cases, however, they are completely consistent in that they represent “the hidden side of daily life, concealed from guests’ eyes.”~ I proudly presented this subtle “deep dive” with a smug look on my face (lol).
　It’s fascinating to consider what psychological dynamics were at play when family members used this room name among themselves, and what impressions visitors formed when they heard it.

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

Posted on 8月 9th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
Filed under: 未分類 | No Comments »

【住環境「住めば都」と人それぞれの幸福感】



　「四百年間のいのちの履歴書」というテーマを決めて、家系の慶長年間以降の生き様をたどる「ライフワーク」に取り組んできていますが、次兄からバトンタッチされたこのお役について、やはり自分としては可能な限りのリアリティを求めて、その土地、その空間になるべく近づいて「息づかい」を感受したいと思っています。
　400年前当時に「紀州から」移転してきて住み着いた「故地」にはたぶんいろいろな機会を捉えて、もう７−８回レベルで探訪してきています。その地形の特徴から生業の実相、信じた生き方の痕跡、時代状況の中でどのような「桎梏」に遭遇し、どのようにわたしに繋がってくるいのちのリレーが生成してきたのか、という一連の空気感を追体験したいと念じているわけです。
　写真はいまのわたしの住環境のなかで，毎日10,000歩越えの散歩のひとつのルート景観。
　散歩は毎日同じルートを歩くのが好きな方もいるでしょうが、わたしは家の周りでいくつかの「基本ルート」を定め、この写真ルートは「自然に親しむ」系のもの。
　先祖の生き様を想像し続ける日々では、やはり「山の景色」は近景・遠景のコントラストを意識するのに欠かせない。そしてそこに「水」が流れているのは人間の基本のように思える。たぶん時空を超えて共有できる基本。
　こういう現代社会が実現した環境の美感のなかで、毎日を過ごせている「シアワセ」感が沸き起こって来る。そして血脈が自分のいまを導いてきてくれたことにも、シンプルに感謝したくなる。
　故地は広島県東部地域で複数箇所にわたっている。家系の人びとは厳しい蒸暑気候の夏を過ごしていただろうけれど、120年ほど前に祖父以降の一統はこのカラッとしたさわやかな夏の地に新天地を開いた。
　たしかに冬の寒さ・雪の困難は隔絶するが、現代では自分もその運動に関わった「住宅性能進化」が困難を克服した。さらに人間が暮らす街区としての「幸福感」はかなりのハイスペックに到達している。
　散歩で歩ける範囲にこういう自然環境もあり、同時に新千歳空港までも１時間以内で到達し、札幌市中心部にも地下鉄利用で10数分以内の利便性。さらに歩いて買い物出来る1km以内に生活を豊かにする大型スーパー・ドラッグストア類が10を超えて存在し、かつ公共図書館は家の目の前。
　長尺スパンで生き様を考えるとき、より天国に近づいている、という実感がある。

●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⬇

[Living Environments: “Home Is Where the Heart Is” and Each Person’s Sense of Happiness]
From a sweltering climate to a place with dry, crisp air. One’s personal perception shifts toward the idea of “the place closest to heaven.” In old age, one traces the path their family has walked over the generations. …

　Having chosen the theme “A 400-Year History of Life,” I have been working on a “life’s work” that traces the lives of my family line from the Keichō era onward. Regarding this role, which my second older brother has passed on to me, I naturally seek as much realism as possible; I want to get as close as I can to that land and that space to sense its “breath.”
　I’ve probably visited my “ancestral home”—the place where my family settled after moving “from Kishu” 400 years ago—seven or eight times now, taking advantage of various opportunities. I’m eager to relive the overall atmosphere of that place: from the characteristics of its terrain to the realities of their livelihoods, the traces of the way of life they believed in, the “shackles” they encountered amid the circumstances of their time, and how the relay of life connecting them to me has unfolded.
　The photo shows a view along one of the routes I take on my daily walks—which exceed 10,000 steps—in my current living environment.
　While some people prefer to walk the same route every day, I’ve established several “basic routes” around my home, and the route in this photo is one designed to “connect with nature.”
　In my daily life, as I continue to imagine how my ancestors lived, “mountain scenery” is indispensable for appreciating the contrast between near and far views. And the fact that “water” flows there feels like a fundamental aspect of being human—perhaps a fundamental truth we can share across time and space.
Amid the beauty of this environment, made possible by modern society, a sense of “happiness” wells up within me as I spend each day here. It also makes me want to simply express my gratitude for the bloodline that has guided me to where I am today.
My ancestral homeland spans several locations in the eastern part of Hiroshima Prefecture. While my ancestors likely endured harsh, sweltering summers, about 120 years ago, my grandfather and his descendants carved out a new life in this dry, refreshing summer climate.
　Admittedly, the harsh winter cold and the challenges of snow are a world apart, but in modern times, the “evolution of housing performance”—a movement in which I myself was involved—has overcome those difficulties. Furthermore, the “sense of happiness” as a residential community has reached a remarkably high standard.
　This natural environment is within walking distance, yet New Chitose Airport is less than an hour away, and downtown Sapporo is just over ten minutes away by subway. Furthermore, within a 1-kilometer walking radius—convenient for shopping—there are more than ten large supermarkets and drugstores that enrich daily life, and the public library is right in front of my house.
　When I consider my way of life over the long term, I truly feel that I am getting closer to paradise.

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

Posted on 8月 8th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
Filed under: 未分類 | No Comments »

【朝は「冷涼感」も感じる札幌の夏 2026】


　大学生と社会人の会社勤め時期の都合８年間ほどの東京暮らし以外は、ずっと札幌住まいの人生。郷に入らば郷に従うという素直な性格なので（笑）案外東京時代の夏場体験も、そう苦にはしていませんでした。が、最近の本州以南地域での40度超えというニュースを見ていると、隔世の感がありまことにお見舞い申し上げる次第。
　とくに被災され避難所での暮らしを強いられているみなさんのことを思うと、まことに思いが募ります。
　写真は昨日久しぶりに朝散歩していた近くの「西野緑道」の様子。
　６月にはやや暑さが強かった北海道ですが、その後「エゾ梅雨」的な多雨気候でやや冷涼感に包まれていました。ようやく８月の声を聞いてから連日30度を超えるか超えないかの一進一退状況。まぁ本州以南地域のみなさんには申し訳ないような低レベルでの「暑さ」ではありますが。
　室内でエアコンをあまり掛けっぱなしにすると「寒い」くらい。夫婦でも「体感」には違いがあるので、わたしはその寒さにガマンして室内でPCと向き合っております。カミさんはとくに台所仕事など室内作業でヒートアップするようで、すれ違いというか夫婦ケンカがあります（笑）。
　で、本日も早朝４時に外を見てみたら外に駐車しているクルマのガラス面とフロント側には、うっすらと「結露」が発生しておりました。

　こんな様子でしたが、散歩道の西野緑道では、早朝で低め、たぶん20度も下回っている上に緑にほぼ囲われた散歩道環境なので、多少の風もあってやや肌寒さを感じながら、徐々に上がっていく気温に安堵感を感じていました。　
　北海道の夏は、ここからお盆までが最盛期。
　日中街を歩いていると、日焼けした子どもさんたちの笑顔に出会えて楽しい。夏休みまっ最中の楽天ぶりが自分の過ぎ去りし日々を思い出させてもらえます。昨日も書いたように、ライフワーク的に取り組んでいる「家系史」探究で昔人である先祖の生き様・暮らしぶりを追体験する日々なのですが、現代の人びととイメージが重なってきて、ふと出会う子どもたちの表情から、刺激される部分が大きいのですね。通底する「人間らしさ」。
　あのとき、曾祖父はどういう心理で過酷だった明治初年の夏をしのいでいたのだろうか、などと思いが行きつ戻りつさせられる。北国で過ごしていられる幸せを噛みしめつつ、暑中お見舞い申し上げます。

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

English version⬇

[Sapporo’s Summer 2026: A “Cool Breeze” in the Morning]
I happened to glance over and noticed condensation forming on the car’s windows and windshield due to the temperature difference. Perhaps it’s caused by the contrast between the nighttime temperature in the 10s and the heat of the car’s body during the day. Season’s greetings in the heat of summer. …

　Apart from the roughly eight years I spent living in Tokyo while attending college and working as a company employee, I’ve lived in Sapporo my entire life. Since I have a straightforward personality and believe in “when in Rome, do as the Romans do” (laughs), I actually didn’t find the summers during my time in Tokyo all that difficult. However, seeing recent news reports of temperatures exceeding 40 degrees in regions south of Honshu makes it feel like a different world, and I’d like to express my sincere sympathy to those affected.
　My heart goes out especially to those affected by disasters who are forced to live in evacuation shelters.
The photo shows the “Nishino Greenway” near my home, where I went for a morning walk yesterday for the first time in a while.
　In June, it was a bit hot here in Hokkaido, but after that, we were enveloped in a somewhat cool atmosphere thanks to a rainy spell reminiscent of the “Ezo rainy season.” Finally, with the arrival of August, we’ve been in a back-and-forth situation where the temperature hovers around 30 degrees day after day. Well, I suppose this is a rather mild level of “heat” that I almost feel bad about compared to what people in Honshu and further south are experiencing.
　If I leave the air conditioner running indoors for too long, it actually feels “cold.” Even between us as a couple, our “perceived temperature” differs, so I’m putting up with the chill while working on my PC indoors. My wife, on the other hand, seems to get really hot doing indoor chores like cooking, so we end up having little disagreements—or rather, marital spats (laughs).
　Anyway, when I looked outside at 4:00 a.m. today, I noticed a faint layer of “condensation” had formed on the windows and front of the car parked outside.

　That was the scene, but on the Nishino Greenway walking path—where it was still early morning and the temperature was on the low side, probably well below 20 degrees, and the path was almost entirely surrounded by greenery—I felt a slight chill in the air despite the gentle breeze, yet I felt a sense of relief as the temperature gradually rose.
Summer in Hokkaido reaches its peak from now until Obon.
Walking through the city during the day, it’s a joy to see the smiling faces of sun-kissed children. Seeing them so carefree in the midst of summer vacation reminds me of my own days gone by. As I wrote yesterday, I’m currently immersed in researching my “family history”—a lifelong project—trying to relive the lives and lifestyles of my ancestors from long ago. Yet, their images often overlap with those of people today, and I find myself deeply inspired by the expressions on the faces of the children I happen to encounter. The underlying “humanity.”
　My thoughts keep circling back to questions like, “What must my great-grandfather have been thinking as he endured the harsh summers of the early Meiji era?” As I savor the happiness of living in the northern regions, I’d like to send you my best wishes for a cool summer.

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

Posted on 8月 7th, 2026 by 三木 奎吾
Filed under: 未分類 | No Comments »

次ページへ »