In Asuka

We had intended

To make our visits here always

Thinking it would be without end

And continue from generation to generation

Like the tsuga trees that grow lush

Extending their many branches

Over the Mimoro no Kamunabiyama

The old capital with its hills seen tall

And its magnificent river

The its magnificent river

The mountains especially pleasing to see

On a day in spring

The streams so especially clear

On an autumn night

Cranes winging confusedly in sunrise clouds

And frogs croaking in the evening mists

Now whenever I see the place

I cannot but weep aloud

Remembering days of old

Man'yoshu 324

Unlike the vapors that rise

From Asukagawa's every pool

This longing is not one

To be conceived perforce to pass

Man'yoshu 325