Sen Soshitsu releases new essay collection on Kyoto alleys

Sen Soshitsu, the 16th generation grand master of the Urasenke tea school, has released a new collection of essays titled ‘Kyoto no Komichi: Mawari Michi Agaru/Kudaru’. The work compiles 120 short pieces originally serialized in the Shinkansen Green Car magazine ‘Hitotoki’ through 2024.

The essays explore the nuances of Kyoto’s narrow alleys, capturing the city’s changing landscape, historical memories, and personal encounters. Sen describes the joy of getting lost in the city’s winding paths, noting that the charm lies in the unexpected turns and dead ends. The collection touches on various themes, from seasonal changes and childhood memories to the lingering traces of war in the city.