Ariyoshi-ki (Memorial Day for Sawako Ariyoshi)

What Is Ariyoshi-ki (Memorial Day for Sawako Ariyoshi)?

August 30 marks "Ariyoshi-ki," commemorating the death of novelist Sawako Ariyoshi, known for works such as "Kokotsu no Hito" (The Twilight Years) and "Kinokawa" (The River Ki), who passed away on August 30, 1984.

Remembering a Writer Who Captured Her Era

Sawako Ariyoshi earned a wide readership for socially engaged novels that tackled pressing issues of her time — from the challenges of an aging society in "Kokotsu no Hito" to portrayals of women's lives in "Kinokawa." Ariyoshi-ki is a day to look back on her literary achievements.

• Origin: The death anniversary of novelist Sawako Ariyoshi, who died on August 30, 1984
• Notable works: "Kokotsu no Hito" (The Twilight Years), "Kinokawa" (The River Ki), and others
• Observance: A memorial service called "Ariyoshi-ki" is held on the anniversary of her death at Myoho-ji Temple in Horinouchi, Suginami, Tokyo, where a monument to her stands

Literature That Was Ahead of Its Time

"Kokotsu no Hito" tackled the then-rarely discussed subject of caring for a parent with dementia, sparking widespread public conversation. Ariyoshi's work continues to raise questions that remain relevant today.

Ways to Mark the Day

• Pick up one of Sawako Ariyoshi's novels
• Look into the plots of "Kokotsu no Hito" or "Kinokawa"
• Research the social backdrop her novels were set against
• Revisit a favorite author's work with fresh eyes

A Writer's Perspective, Carried Forward in Words

Ariyoshi-ki is a day to remember the perspective of a writer who continually gave literary form to society's challenges. August 30 is an opportunity to look at the times we live in through the lens of Sawako Ariyoshi's work.