Background
Soin Nishiyama was born in 1605.
Soin Nishiyama was born in 1605.
Soin Nishiyama was a retainer of the Kato family in Kumamoto. After the decline of his master's house he wandered round Kinki district till he founded the Danrin school of haiku dialogue in osaka. His school soon became a great rival to that of Teitoku Matsunaga, who then had great influence in literary circles. His style was refreshing in contrast to that of Teitoku's and attracted much adherents. Later, however his style degenerated and was overshadowed by the more orthodox style of Basho Matsuo.