津田繁二: 歴史家・古銭収集家 ー エフ・エム・トラウツ **

津田繁二（Tsuda Shigeji）

Given the presence of multiple individuals sharing the same name, inherent ambiguity clouds the identification of this particular Tsuda. The conclusion drawn regarding his potential role as a historian rests on inferred deductions from the available timeline and his address, rather than being a definitive assertion. The assessment tends towards the likelihood of Tsuda's involvement in historical pursuits due to the apparent alignment of the timeline and his address with such interests.

津田繁二（Tsuda Shigeji）長崎市本紙屋町五八 Nagasaki-shi, Motokamiya-machi 58

I lean towards the belief that our Tsuda was indeed a historian. His historical fascination, notably his specific focus on old Japanese coinage, hints at a profound connection to historical study and enthusiast engagement in that field. Moreover, his association with 福岡古泉会 (Fukuoka Kosenkai) notably bolsters the likelihood of his active participation in a group dedicated to antiquities and historical artifacts.

長崎談叢 26

One of his notable works, '我長崎県の先史時代及び原史時代の遺蹟及び遺跡物の概略に就て' in 長崎談叢#26, delves into the overview of relics and remains from the prehistoric and protohistoric eras in Nagasaki Prefecture.

I believe our Tsuda Shigeji might be the same person referenced on a Japanese old coins blog site: https://kosenmaru.sub.jp/kannei0-10.html - dated May 18, 2014, and July 12, 2014 as well. But unless we can definitively identify his handwriting, absolute attribution remains elusive. Nonetheless, the evidence at hand strongly leans towards our Tsuda's promising identification in this context.

中川善教 Buddhist Monk to トラウツ博士 **

中川善教からの年賀状

On January 1, 1933, 中川善教 (Nakagawa Zenkyo) sent a postcard from 紀伊高野山 親王院内 (Kii Koyasan Shinnoin Nai) addressed to トラウツ博士 (Dr. Trautz), accompanied by a reference to 侍者 (Jisha), which potentially denotes Trautz's 'associates,' though its precise meaning remains ambiguous.

Nakagawa was an extraordinary figure in the world of Shingon Buddhism: a luminary who dedicated his life to its study and propagation. Born on February 2, 1907, in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, this remarkable individual became the 476th Chief Administrator (法印) of Kongo-ji Temple within the Shingon sect of Koyasan. His journey was marked by an unwavering commitment to scholarly pursuits and spiritual practices until his passing on March 26, 1990.

Having entered Koyasan in 1915 and subsequently becoming a monk under the tutelage of Kyo'ei Mizuhara, he pursued his academic endeavors at the Horyu-ji Kann Gakuin Graduate School, graduating in 1938 with a Doctor of Literature degree.

His career path took him through various roles, from a professor at Kyoto Specialized School to an associate professor at Koyasan University in 1951. His expertise in rituals and doctrines paved the way for positions as a professor, president, and director at the Esoteric Buddhist Culture Institute, culminating in the distinguished title of Professor Emeritus.

Beyond his academic prowess, which allowed him to conduct significant rituals and contribute extensively to the understanding of Shingon doctrines, his influence extended through the numerous works he authored. His research, guidance, and dedication to compiling doctrinal texts significantly enriched the study and dissemination of Shingon Buddhism, leaving an indelible mark on its history and teachings.

神龜法壽 Jingi Hoju 高野山 *

From Kongobuji Temple and Koyasan to Trautz

New Year's Card from Koyasan to F. M. Trautz

This card, similar to the one sent by Nakashima (as previously mentioned), was likely delivered through the same method and probably included multiple cards from several or more senders. While this card lists three names from Kongobuji Temple and two from the Koyasan Archival Office, I believe the crucial individual is one named 神龜法壽（神亀法壽）- Jingi (Jinki?) Hoju 

總本山金剛峯寺 

• 執行長　釋　法傳　
• 執行　　眞淵　實榮　
• 執行　　徳守　清鳳

　

高野山史編纂所

• 主任　神龜法壽 
• 外　　掛員一同

中島正國（1896-1954) 宮司 *

1933 New Year's Card to Trautz

中島正國からトラウツへの年賀状

Amidst my collection of New Year's cards lies an intriguing puzzle surrounding one from 中島正國 (Nakajima Masakuni). This card, devoid of individual recipient names, suggests a wider distribution strategy. Curiously, it landed among a few others in my possession that reached F. M. Trautz without utilizing the postal system or featuring any recipient names. The absence of specific addressees, coupled with preprinted sender details, hints at a broader distribution intention, possibly from multiple senders but unquestionably intended for F. M. Trautz. A curious riddle, indeed. 

This card reads:

官幣中社赤間宮社務所 (Kanpeichusha, Akama-gu Shamusho - Office of the Akama Shrine)

中島正國 (Nakajima Masakuni)

下関市園田町住  (Shimonoseki-shi, Sonoda-machi, Resident)

Chronology of Positions:

Early Life and Education

• 1896 Born in Shimane Prefecture
• 1916 Graduated from Kokugakuin University with a degree in Japanese and Chinese literature 

Shrine Appointments

• 1925 Became a priest at Sangawa Shrine
• 1929 Moved to Akama Shrine as a priest
• 1933 Became the priest of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
• 1937 Transferred to Meiji Shrine as the chief priest
• 1945 Became the priest of Suwa Taisha Shrine
• 1946 Became the priest of Mihoya Shrine

Other Roles

• 1947 Headed the Shimane Prefecture Association of Shinto Shrines

Passing: 

• March 20, 1954 at the age of 58

辻松子(津田塾大学)からの年賀状(1933年）**

辻松子(津田塾大学)からの年賀状(1933年）

Apart from a write-up in the Yomiuri newspaper dated 2/8/1919, which can be found at the following link: https://da.lib.kobe-u.ac.jp/da/np/0100356669/, there is no other online information available about Tsuji Matsuko. Below is a translated version of that Japanese newspaper. 

The head of the Women's English Academy, Miss Umeko Tsuda, suffering from diabetes and mild neurasthenia, is currently hospitalized for recuperation at St. Luke's Hospital in Tsukiji. In her absence until full recovery, Miss Tsuji Matsuko, a teacher, has taken charge as acting headmistress. A private presentation was held around 3 o'clock on the fifth day, where Dr. Nitobe introduced Miss Matsuko to all attendees, followed by her speech before the gathering was adjourned. Despite Miss Tsuda's stay at St. Luke's Hospital, she appeared remarkably energetic, receiving numerous visitors and attending to each of them with vigor, belying the assumption of her being unwell. Seated in a comfortable chair, she calmly mentioned, "The academy will be transformed into a university based on the recently issued University Ordinance. Currently, we are deeply involved in planning, although there are no concrete plans as yet. In essence, we aim to raise a basic fund of 250,000 yen over the next three years and have already commenced preparations." She spoke cheerfully. The hospital room resembled a greenhouse with the abundance of flowers and bonsai trees brought as get-well gifts.

女子英学塾長津田梅子女史は糖尿病と軽微の神経衰弱で、築地の聖路加病院に入院療養中ですが御全快迄塾長代理として教諭辻松子女史が其の事務に鞅掌さるることとなり、五日午後三時極く内々にて其の披露会を催されました、新渡戸博士は松子女史を列席者一同に紹介され、次いで女史の挨拶があって散会しましたが、津田梅子女史を聖路加病院に御訪ねしますと、引ききりなしに見舞わるる多くの来客に対し一々応接に力めらるる御様子は御病人とは思われぬ程の御元気でした、安楽椅子に馮り、赤十字社の慈善事業に寄贈すべき靴下を編みながら、落ちついた調子で『英学塾も今度発布された大学令に依って愈単科大学とする決心で、目下其の計画に多忙を極めて居ます、未だ今の処では具体案という程のものもありませんが、大体を云えば向う三ヶ年間に二十五万円の基本金を集める筈なので、既に其の準備にも着手して居るのです」と愉快気に語られました、病室には御見舞の生花や盆栽で温室のように思われました。

川村麟也 (病理学者) からトラウツへのはがき **

川村麟也 (病理学者) からトラウツへのはがき

Unearthing a New Year's card dating to 1933, exchanged between Kawamura Rinya, a revered pathologist known for his work on diseases, and Dr. Friedrich Max Trautz, a prominent scholar studying the history of Philipp Franz von Siebold, offers a unique glimpse into an unexpected connection between two seemingly distinct fields.

Kawamura Rinya's expertise in pathology illuminated the medical landscape from the late 19th century well into the mid-20th century, providing crucial insights into diseases like scrub typhus. Meanwhile, Dr. Trautz delved into the vast legacy of von Siebold, exploring the intersections of culture, history, and Japan's transformative era.

The convergence of these luminaries from diverse realms—medicine and Japanology—sheds light on the intellectual exchanges transcending disciplinary boundaries. Their correspondence hints at a fascinating dialogue, possibly intertwining medical knowledge and cultural narratives.

川村麟也 (Kawamura Rinya) was an expert in the field of pathology in Japan, renowned for his significant contributions to the study of scrub typhus, also known as tsutsugamushi disease or Orientia tsutsugamushi infection. Scrub typhus is a disease caused by the Orientia tsutsugamushi bacterium, transmitted by mites in rural areas of Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands.

Kawamura Rinya's research primarily focused on the pathology, clinical manifestations, laboratory diagnosis, and treatment of scrub typhus. His work aimed to deepen our understanding of this disease, encompassing its epidemiological characteristics, pathogenic mechanisms, and strategies for prevention and treatment.

As a pathologist, Kawamura Rinya's contributions involve in-depth pathological studies of diseases, aiding in diagnoses, and advancing our comprehension of disease mechanisms. His research endeavors are instrumental in improving healthcare and enhancing treatment outcomes for patients.

江馬勉からトラウツへの年賀状 **

江馬勉からトラウツへの年賀状

Ema Tsutomu (1884-1979) was a professor at Kyoto University and a renowned folklorist and cultural anthropologist. He dedicated his career to the study of Japanese customs, traditions, folklore, and ethnography. His research focused on various aspects of Japanese culture, including rituals, beliefs, mythology, and regional customs.

Ema Tsutomu's work involved extensive fieldwork and research to document and analyze the diverse cultural practices and traditions across Japan. He made significant contributions to the understanding and preservation of Japan's cultural heritage, providing valuable insights into the rich tapestry of Japanese society.

江馬勉（左）

In 1907, he entered Kyoto Imperial University as a member of the inaugural class in the Department of History in the Faculty of Letters and graduated in 1910. His graduation thesis was on "The History of Kyoto City." That same year, he enrolled in the graduate school of the university to study "Japanese Customs and Manners." After graduating, he became a faculty member at the Kyoto City School of Fine Arts and Crafts and established the "Customs and Manners Research Society" in 1911.

He didn't just conduct historical research on past customs and manners from literary and historical materials; he also adopted a method of reconstruction and wearing of costumes to conduct analyses. Starting from 1915, he held a "Period Costume Demonstration" every month and in 1916, he founded the society's journal, "Customs and Manners Studies." Additionally, he established a dyeing research society, contributing to the dyeing industry as well.

Throughout the pre-war and post-war periods, he excelled as a leading figure in the study of customs and manners as well as the knowledge of historical customs. In 1949, he became a professor at Kyoto Women's University. In 1960, he founded the Japan Society for the Study of Customs and Manners and became its first president. He was posthumously awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Third Class. His final resting place is at Kodai-ji Temple in Kyoto City.

His studies and publications have been influential in both academic circles and in fostering a broader appreciation and understanding of Japanese customs and traditions among the general public. Ema Tsutomu's contributions continue to be highly regarded in the field of Japanese folklore and anthropology.

村田虎次郎 から トラウツへのはがき **

村田虎次郎 から 獨逸・ドクトル・トラウツ へのはがき

In 1933, Murata Torajiro sent a New Year's card, marking the year of the rooster with the symbol "酉" next to his address. Interestingly, Murata addressed it to "獨逸・ドクトル・トラウツ," German(y) Doctor Trautz. Murata (1869-1942) was not only the mayor of Otsu City in Shiga but also held two terms as a congress member, as mentioned on Wikipedia. 

Murata pens a Chinese style poem for Trautz on the message side of this postcard. It's rough translation is below:

"The emperor's great virtue spans the west and east. The majestic wind through bamboo, unseen in a thousand years. Today, I behold the calm of sky and earth. Spring approaches, the land serene."

M. Akamatsu 赤松 in Nagasaki to ドクトル・エフ・トラウツ 1932 **

M. Akamatsu to ドクトル・エフ・トラウツ 1932

This New Year's card with postmark of December 23, 1932 is addressed to F. M. Trautz in Kyoto, sent by someone named M. Akamatsu from Nagasaki, carries warm greetings for Christmas and New Year in German: "Herzliche Glückwünsche zu den fröhlichen Weihnachten sowie zum Neujahr, Ihr ganz Ergebener."

Despite the lack of information on Akamatsu, the postcard sparks curiosity about their connection to Trautz and the choice of language. Nagasaki's historical ties to international trade and the use of German might suggest a professional or academic relationship between the sender and recipient during that time.

増田廉吉 Masuda Renkichi 長崎図書館 ドクトル・エム・トラウツ *

増田廉吉 Masuda Renkichi　長崎図書館　

Apart from his role as a research librarian and his appointment as the second library director of Nagasaki Prefectural Library in 1935, there is limited online information available on Masuda Renkichi. He is mentioned in an article titled "コーヒーはなぜ「珈琲」と書く？/ そこにある日本人の詩的なコーヒー観," dated 09/14/2022 (source: https://gendai.media/articles/-/99327). This article delves into the history of coffee in Japan and explains why the word "coffee" is written as "珈琲" in Japanese.

Unusual 1933 Message from Nawa Yoichi to F. M. Trautz **

In 1933, Nawa Yoichi, the President of Morita Seisakusho Company and Director of Blaon Arai Suido Company (森田製作所（株）社長, ブラオン鑿井水道（株）取締役), sent a unique New Year's card to F. M. Trautz. What set this card apart was not its design but the enigmatic message inscribed upon it.

名和陽一 Nawa Yoichi 

Nawa's message was rather unconventional, as it contained paradoxical phrases that seemed to juxtapose the conventional sentiments of a New Year's greeting. "Kado matsu ya meido no tabi no ichiru zuka medetaku mo ari medetaku mo nashi" presented the idea of both happiness and unhappiness in the coming year. Similarly, "Long Life = Short Life" and "Wealth = Poor" challenged the traditional wishes for longevity and prosperity. The message concluded with the philosophical assertion, "人ハ只自然ニ生キ規則正シク活動スルガ本来ノ面目也," emphasizing the harmony of living in accordance with nature.

It leaves us to ponder what thoughts must have crossed Trautz's mind when receiving this cryptic New Year's message. The juxtaposition of traditional well-wishing with an intriguing philosophical twist makes this card a fascinating historical artifact, offering a glimpse into the unique perspective of Nawa Yoichi.

北野神社 (北野天満宮) to F. M.トラウツ *

These two cards, dated 1932 and 1933, are intriguing for several reasons.

• First, they were sent not by a priest of the shrine but by an administrative staff member named 金津泰鯉 (Kanatsu Tairi), who was also the author of "石清水八幡宮由緒略記" (Abbreviated History of Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine, published in 1939).
• Second, Kanatsu's decision to address Trautz as 殿 (tono) instead of 様 (sama) is of particular interest. This linguistic distinction implies that Kanatsu may have regarded Trautz not as his superior, as is typically the case in correspondence, but perhaps as an equal or someone of lower status.
• Third, it's worth noting that the shrine has undergone a name change and is currently known as Kitano Tenmangu.
• Fourth, the card dated 1933 is addressed to エフ・エス・トラウツ (F. S. Trautz) when it should have been エフ・エム・トラウツ (F. M. Trautz).

金津泰鯉 Kanatsu Tairi 北野神社

Kitano Tenmangu (北野天満宮) is a famous Shinto shrine located in Kyoto, Japan, in the northern part of the city, in an area known as Kamigyo Ward. It is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a scholar and politician from the Heian period (794-1185), who is revered as the deity of learning and academics. The shrine is also known for its beautiful plum trees, making it a popular destination for tourists, especially during the plum blossom season in late winter and early spring.

トラウツの墓 Oku-no-In 奥の院 Mount Koya 高野山

トラウツ博士の五輪塔

Obtaining information about Trautz is exceedingly challenging. First, few people actively search for details about him. Second, the limited information available is often in Japanese or German. Third, no new information about him has surfaced. Therefore, I was pleasantly surprised when I came across a website called Nara Nichi Doku Kyokai (Die Japanisch-Deutsche Gesellschaft Nara) or The Japanese-German Society Nara. From this source, I discovered that Trautz has a grave in Japan. The following information was obtained from: https://www.daianji.or.jp/jdgn/pdf/nin_no82_omote.pdf

トラウツ博士は１９５２年にカールスルーエで７５才の生涯を閉じられました。その後、日本をこよなく愛された博士の為に、先代はそのご遺骨を高野山に分骨することを願い出て各所に働きかけ、奥の院の一角に五輪塔を建立して供養をしたのです。この度、杉木立の中にひっそりたたずむトラウツ博士の五輪塔に、参加者全員で香を手向け、また、伽藍の中心に聳え立つ根本大塔に入って、日独の架け橋たらんとした二人の在りし日々を偲んだことでした。

The rough translation is as follows:

"Dr. Trautz passed away in 1952 at the age of 75 in Karlsruhe. Following his passing, in honor of the doctor who held a profound love for Japan, his predecessor made a request to divide his remains and worked diligently to establish a five-story pagoda in a secluded corner of the inner sanctuary at Mount Koya for memorial purposes. On this occasion, all the participants offered incense at Dr. Trautz's five-story pagoda nestled within the cedar forest. They also took a moment to reflect on the days when the two of them strived to build bridges between Japan and Germany as they entered the central pagoda within the temple precinct."

I couldn't determine from that specific piece of writing whether they acquired his ashes or bones for his gravesite, or if it's intended more as a memorial or dedication.

岩井武俊 1933 Card to Dr. Trautz 都良宇津 **

岩井武俊 to Dr. Trautz 都良宇津

Although the backside of this postcard appears to be handwritten, it is actually printed. The cardstock seems to be made from sturdy rice paper (hanshi). In it, Taketoshi Iwai addresses this New Year's card to F. M. Trautz, using an uncommon written form of his name in kanji, 都良宇津. 

Taketoshi Iwai (1886-1965) was a historian, journalist, author, and a Kyoto bureau chief of the Osaka Mainichi Newspaper from about 1927-1942. He authored a number of works on historical houses, temples, shrines, and architecture around Kyoto. One of them is titled 京郊民家譜 (Kyōkō Minkafu), Traditional Folk Houses of Kyoto Suburbs.

Taketoshi Iwai (circled) image credit: https://discoverjapan-web.com/article/12413

This book provides valuable insights into the traditional folk houses and architecture found in the suburbs of Kyoto, Japan. While Taketoshi Iwai may not be a widely recognized figure, his contributions to documenting and preserving knowledge about the traditional architecture in the Kyoto region are noteworthy, especially for those interested in Japanese history and culture.

This book offers valuable insights into the architectural heritage of the Kyoto region, focusing on the lesser-known, everyday structures found in suburban areas. These houses often exemplify traditional Japanese architecture, showcasing elements such as tatami mat rooms, shoji screens, and wooden beams. Iwai's work goes beyond mere documentation; it aims to celebrate and preserve the architectural traditions that have played a vital role in shaping the unique cultural landscape of Kyoto.

京郊民家譜 photo credit: Yasuda Shoten

By cataloging these folk houses and providing detailed descriptions, "京郊民家譜" contributes to the broader understanding of how architectural styles evolved in Japan and reflects the cultural and historical significance of the Kyoto region. This book is not only a valuable resource for scholars and researchers but also for anyone interested in Japanese architecture, history, and culture.

Taketoshi Iwai's dedication to documenting and celebrating these suburban folk houses is a testament to the importance of preserving cultural heritage. "京郊民家譜" continues to be a valuable resource for those looking to explore the architectural and cultural traditions of Kyoto, and it serves as a reminder of the rich history and craftsmanship found in everyday structures that have often been overshadowed by more famous landmarks.

Kuze Michifumi 久世通章 toトラウス（F. M. Trautz) **

Kuze Michifumi 久世通章 toトラウス

This 1933 dated postcard is addressed to トラウス (To-Ra-U-Su), instead of To-Ra-U-Tsu, by 久世通章, Kuze Michifumi or Michiaki (1859－1939), and his second wife 田鶴（Tazu). He is the father of 久世章業 Kuze Akinari (1898-1976), Kotohira Shrine priest (read Sept. 12, 2023 post about him).

Kuze Michifumi, a nobleman, politician, author, and chairman of the Kemari Preservation Society, among other roles, provides a window into the personal connections and historical context of the Kuze family during this era with Trautz. 

都良宇津 F. M. Trautz の 印

都良宇津 F. M. Trautz の 印

While this image is not part of my personal collection, I believe it holds significant value for our readers, particularly those interested in the study of Trautz. This distinctive personal stamp (印鑑) features an unconventional pentagonal shape, setting it apart from the more common round or rectangular designs. Notably, it bears six characters rendered in 篆書 (tensho, Seal script), with four of them being 都良宇津 (To-Ra-U-Tsu). However, the remaining two characters on this stamp currently elude our deciphering efforts.

It's important to note that many foreigners, often referred to as 'gaijins,' residing or working in Japan have their "hanko" crafted by transliterating the sounds of their names into Japanese characters. During this process, the resulting kanji characters may carry meanings that are unusual or not directly related to the individual's name. This practice reflects the fusion of cultures and languages, resulting in hanko with unique and sometimes enigmatic meanings.

The use of hanko, or personal seals, is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and carries historical significance dating back centuries. These seals serve various purposes, including the authentication of documents, signing contracts, and authorizing official paperwork. Each individual's hanko is a reflection of their identity, and the characters chosen for it often hold personal or symbolic meaning.

For foreign residents in Japan, adopting a hanko can be both a practical necessity and a cultural experience. It involves the selection of appropriate kanji characters that not only approximate the sound of their names but also convey meanings that resonate with them. This process can be a fascinating exploration of the Japanese language and culture, as well as a reflection of one's unique journey in a foreign land. It's not uncommon for gaijins to engage in discussions and consultations with experts to craft a hanko that aligns with their identity while respecting Japanese traditions.

憲兵隊 清水豊緒からトラウツ **

This unique 1933 New Year's card was sent to F. M. Trautz from the commanding officer of Kyoto Kempei Buntai, military police unit. The Buntai, roughly equivalent in size to a platoon, was comprised of approximately 65 men under the leadership of Captain Shimizu Toyoo (pronounced To-Yo-O).

Kempei Shimizu 憲兵隊 清水豊緒 トラウツ Trautz

Captain Shimizu would have worn an armband bearing the characters 憲兵, as depicted here. In 1933, his rank insignia consisted of shoulder boards. However, in the subsequent years, with the introduction of a revised uniform, his rank insignia transitioned from shoulder boards to simpler and smaller collar tabs (see photos).

In the jurisdiction of the Republic of China in Beijing, from April 8, 1946, to December 13, 1947, a total of 115 individuals faced trial for war crimes. Captain Shimizu was among them, identified with case number 2985. Shimizu Toyoo, hailing from Nara, was sentenced to death on March 30, 1947, and subsequently executed by firing squad on June 26, 1947.  

Shimizu's story is emblematic of the complex and often tragic events that unfolded during the turbulent period of the 20th century. The 1933 New Year's card, now a historical artifact, offers a glimpse into a time when international relations were strained, and the world was on the brink of significant upheaval. It serves as a tangible reminder of the diplomatic intricacies and military dynamics that defined that era.

The trials in Beijing, where Captain Shimizu faced charges of war crimes, were part of a broader effort to hold individuals accountable for their actions during World War II. These trials were significant not only for the pursuit of justice but also for the historical record they created. They shed light on the complex legal and moral questions surrounding war crimes and continue to serve as a historical reference for scholars and researchers studying this period.

Shimizu's fate, marked by his execution, highlights the stark consequences that many individuals faced as a result of their wartime actions. His story serves as a sobering reminder of the human toll of war and the pursuit of justice in its aftermath.

The 1933 New Year's card, Captain Shimizu's service, and the subsequent trials in Beijing are all integral parts of a larger historical narrative. They remind us of the importance of understanding and reflecting upon the events of the past to inform our present and shape our future.

エフ・エム・トラウツ 年賀状 森川栄 濱作 *

In 1933, Morikawa Sakae, the founder of Hamasaku restaurant in Kyoto, sent a New Year's card to F. M. Trautz. Hamasaku restaurant was established in 1927 and remains in operation to this day. In addition to their restaurant, they also offer cooking classes.

I wonder what Trautz ate there. 

エフ・エム・トラウツ 年賀状 森川栄 濱作

Miyako Hotel Taxi to F. M. Trautz 都良宇津 1933 Postcard *

山本慶造　都タクシー　都良宇津

My research yielded no information regarding the sender, Yamamoto Keizo, nor any references to the "Kyoto Sanjo Miyako Hotel Nishi," nor his taxi business. Nevertheless, it is highly probable that this hotel has evolved into what is now known as the Westin Miyako Kyoto. Mr. Yamamoto likely managed a thriving taxi service, catering to both international and domestic travelers from this very hotel with Trautz and his associates as his frequent clients.

賀正

更新の春を迎へ

慎みて貴家の萬福を祈り

尚御變らせなき 

御庇護を賜はらむことを

一月元旦

京都三篠都ホテル西

都タクシー

山本慶造

電話上二九四番

Upon close inspection of this postcard, it features an appealing embossed design depicting the rising sun above a rugged coastal landscape. 

F. M.Trautz, Karlsruhe, Germany, February 25, 1944 **

war letter to F. M. Trautz - F. M. トラウツ - Karlsruhe - カールスルーエ

This letter, penned during the tumultuous times of World War II on February 25, 1944, originates from one of Germany's major industrial hubs, where extensive air raids were taking place during what came to be known as the Big Week. Unfortunately, due to its handwritten German cursive script, I find myself unable to decipher or translate its contents. Consequently, I turned to Google Translator in an attempt to glean at least some insight into the letter's subject matter. While the application's performance was far from ideal, it did provide me with a partial understanding of the message's context. Regrettably, the identity of the letter's author remains unknown.

This rather inconsequential postcard, printed in Japan, lacks a postage stamp, clearly indicating that it did not pass through the German postal system. It was most likely personally delivered to Trautz. The choice of a Japanese postcard for communication is perplexing, considering the challenging circumstances of enduring daily air raids. Why anyone would opt for a Japanese postcard over a conventional sheet of paper remains a puzzle.

I have managed to capture several images of this translated text. Interestingly, as I adjusted the size of the postcard, the translations varied. Here, I present a few examples, all of which revolve around the themes of air raids and the resulting hardships.

again tonight, darken completely

air raid shelter and water in basement

I am very worried, colorful night arrivals

unable to work and died soon

rifle, bread, sand, shovel

The "Big Week" was a significant air campaign conducted by the Allied forces during World War II in February 1944. It aimed to weaken the German Luftwaffe (air force) and disrupt Germany's aircraft production facilities. The campaign took place from February 20 to February 25, 1944, and it played a crucial role in the overall strategic bombing campaign against Nazi Germany. It played a crucial role in paving the way for the successful Allied invasion of Normandy in June 1944 and was a significant milestone in the air war over Europe during World War II.