Exploring the Legacy of Sugita Genpaku: A Pioneer of Dutch Studies and Modern Medicine in Japan
Tucked away in the vibrant streets of Shinjuku lies a piece of Japan’s intellectual history that deserves a spotlight: the birthplace of Sugita Genpaku (1733-1817), a physician whose groundbreaking work helped bridge Japanese and Western medicine. While the area is now part of bustling Tokyo, its past whispers tales of innovation, resilience, and the power of curiosity.
Who Was Sugita Genpaku?
Born in 1733 in Yaraicho, Shinjuku (then a residence of the Sakai Clan, lords of the Obama domain), Genpaku’s early years were steeped in medicine. His father, Sugita Hosen, was a physician for the clan, and young Genpaku—then named Tasuku—seemed destined to follow in his footsteps. Over the years, he adopted various names, including Shiho and pseudonyms like Isai and Kyuko-o, reflecting his intellectual versatility.
Genpaku studied Dutch-style surgery under Nishi Gentetsu, a prominent physician for the shogun’s family. His proficiency in medicine earned him a position as a physician for the Sakai Clan at just 20 years old, marking the start of an illustrious career.
The Turning Point: Dutch Anatomy and an Unforgettable Autopsy
In 1771, Sugita Genpaku, along with Maeno Ryotaku and Nakagawa Jun’an, observed an autopsy at the Kozukappara execution grounds (now Minamisenju in Arakawa City). The experience was transformative. They compared what they witnessed to the illustrations in *Ontleedkundige Tafelen* (1734), a Dutch anatomy book, and were astonished at the accuracy of its anatomical representations.
This moment ignited a mission: translating *Ontleedkundige Tafelen* into Japanese. It was a herculean task, especially given their limited proficiency in Dutch, but it was a labor of love. The result, *New Texts on Anatomy* (1774), became a monumental work in Japanese medical history. It not only laid the foundation for modern anatomy in Japan but also marked the beginnings of Rangaku, or "Dutch Studies," a movement that would influence Japanese science and culture profoundly.
Legacy in Translation and Beyond
Sugita Genpaku’s *First Steps in Dutch Studies in Japan* is an essential resource for understanding the challenges he and his collaborators faced. It provides a vivid account of their struggles to decipher the Dutch text without formal resources, using dictionaries and sheer determination to unlock the knowledge within.
Beyond his scientific contributions, Genpaku was a thoughtful writer. His essay, *Dialogue at Night between Own Body and Spirit,* offers a glimpse into his philosophical reflections, showcasing his depth as both a physician and a humanist.
Visiting Yaraicho: A Modern Connection to the Past
Today, Yaraicho in Shinjuku City is far removed from its Edo-period roots, but its connection to Sugita Genpaku makes it a fascinating stop for history enthusiasts. Visitors can reflect on how this area, once the domain of samurai lords and scholars, became the birthplace of a man who reshaped Japan’s approach to medicine.
Nearby, Minamisenju (the site of the Kozukappara execution grounds) is another key location tied to Genpaku’s story. While its grim history contrasts sharply with the area’s current urban character, it serves as a reminder of the pivotal moments that shaped Japanese medical science.
Why Sugita Genpaku Matters Today
Sugita Genpaku’s life is a testament to the power of intellectual curiosity and cross-cultural exchange. His efforts to translate Dutch medical texts not only advanced Japanese medicine but also exemplified the transformative potential of collaboration and perseverance.
For modern travelers exploring Tokyo, his story offers a unique perspective on the city’s rich history. It’s a reminder that even amidst today’s fast-paced urban life, Tokyo’s past continues to inspire those who seek to understand it.
source information: https://bunkazai.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/il/meta_pub/G0000002enbunkazai_E251030005
