Sawako Ariyoshi

Ariyoshi, Sawako (1931–84), Japanese writer of short stories, murder mysteries, and historical novels that explore the culture, traditions, social structure, and domestic problems of classical and modern Japan. Among her works are Kokotsu No Hito, The Twilight Years, The River Ki, Compound Pollution, The Doctor's Wife, Diary of Princess Kazu, and The Curtain-Raising Bell Sounds Beautiful.