Kitahama Fumon

Kitahama Fumon was a Japanese Rinzai Zen monk, artist, and spiritual teacher known for his simple yet profound approach to life. Often active in the regions of Kyoto, Nara, and Shikoku, he sought enlightenment in everyday experiences and expressed his insights through calligraphy, short aphorisms, and delicate illustrations of wildflowers, many of which were published as illustrated postcards.
Renowned for his humility and hospitality, Fumon welcomed visitors in a modest and unpretentious manner, embodying the values he taught. His lifestyle and spiritual outlook earned him the nickname “Ryōkan of the Shōwa era,” a reference to the beloved Zen monk and poet Ryōkan.
Fumon`s works continue to be appreciated for their warmth, simplicity, and spiritual depth. Collections such as Fumon`s Illustrated Postcards: Embraced by the Wind of Compassion, curated by Kita Katsuyo, preserve many of his illustrated messages and offer insight into his artistic and spiritual world.
His philosophy of life was encapsulated in the motto: “Kurashi wa hikuku, omoi wa takaku” (暮らしは低く、思いは高く) — “Live humbly, think greatly.”