A lost chapter of *The Tale of Genji*, the world’s first novel, has been discovered in a Japanese home after being held by a family for nearly 300 years. The chapter details a key meeting in the epic tale.
The chapter, titled *Wakamurasaki*, is part of a manuscript transcribed by the poet Fujiwara no Teika in the 11th century. It details the first meeting between Prince Genji and his future wife, Murasaki-no-ue. The manuscript was found in the storage room of a Japanese home, having been in the possession of the Okochi family since 1743. Scholars have confirmed its authenticity based on its blue cover and handwriting matching Teika’s other known chapters. The discovery is significant for researchers of Japanese literature and the chapter is expected to be registered as a cultural property of Japan. *The Tale of Genji* was written 1,000 years ago and offers a glimpse into the lives of Japanese royals, known for its elegant prose and depiction of complex relationships.
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The chapter, titled *Wakamurasaki*, is part of a manuscript transcribed by the poet Fujiwara no Teika in the 11th century. It details the first meeting between Prince Genji and his future wife, Murasaki-no-ue. The manuscript was found in the storage room of a Japanese home, having been in the possession of the Okochi family since 1743. Scholars have confirmed its authenticity based on its blue cover and handwriting matching Teika’s other known chapters. The discovery is significant for researchers of Japanese literature and the chapter is expected to be registered as a cultural property of Japan. *The Tale of Genji* was written 1,000 years ago and offers a glimpse into the lives of Japanese royals, known for its elegant prose and depiction of complex relationships.
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