Kaji

Kaji (祇園梶 or 祇園梶子, fl. early 18th century), also known as Kajijo, Gion Kaji, Gion Kajiko, and Kaji of Gion, was a Japanese waka poet and calligrapher. She was one of the most famous and celebrated poets of 18th century Japan. She was the adopted mother of the poet and calligrapher Yuri and the grandmother of the painter Ike Gyokuran.

Life and career The details of Kaji's early life are unknown, Her talent as a waka poet was recognized as early as her teenage years. She and her teahouse were depicted by artists like Mikuma Katen (1730–1794) and Utagawa Kuniyoshi. She is one of the many figures celebrated in the annual Jidai Matsuri festival in Kyoto.