A Film by Yojiro Takita
In the early 17th century, Japan isolated itself from the world.
Few Japanese knew of Copernicus's
idea of a sun-centered universe, or even that the earth was round.
In an age when the starry skies remained filled with mystery,
one man was determined to unlock its secrets.
TENCHI: The Samurai Astronomer
Sir Santetsu.
Aizu Clan Residence, Edo
Are you up there again, Sir? Please be careful.
You have an official duty tomorrow.
If you get hurt, our clan will lose all face.
Yes, I'll watch my step, Sir Ando.
Ando, Aizu Clan retainer
By the way, have you been to the Konno shrine?
Konno shrine?
Yes, an interesting puzzle has been posted.
Its author seems well versed in the art of mathematics.
Did you copy the puzzle?
No.
You're lying.
Please, show it to me! Oh, no!
Please.
No, I cannot!
Your duty calls at the castle tomorrow. If I show it to you, you will not sleep!
After you've done your duty, you can review it carefully.
Wait a moment.
Found it!
Edo is an amazing place.
Murase Academy
"There is a triangle. And also, an arc of 1 shaku, 6 sun.
"As drawn, the circle fits in the triangle.
"The perimeter is 9 sun 6 bu.
"What then, is the height and width of the triangle?"
One... Nine...
Before the first digit...
I hesitate...
What?
I must sweep and purify the area.
I'm terribly sorry, wait a moment.
Must you solve it here and now?
You cannot solve it immediately and the puzzle will not escape.
I can solve it soon.
Suit yourself then. Take your time.
Oh, no, I must hurry, hurry.
Why are you in a sudden rush?
- I must visit the castle. - The castle!
Thank you for your kindness.
It was most educational.
Thank you.
Hurry! To the castle now!
Stop, please!
Go back, go back!
It's gone.
You seek this?
Oh, thank you!
The answers...
Six sun.
They're all answered.
Who answered these...
Even a new puzzle!
Did you see this person, Seki Takakazu?
Yes.
Did he solve them here?
I watched him take one look and solve each one here.
Solved at a glance!
What is this person...
Seki like?
Edo Castle
It's so crowded...
You are late.
- Honibo Doetsu - - - - Yasui Sanchi - You're late! You could have kept the Shogun waiting.
I humbly apologize.
Priest Doetsu, I return the Go game record.
You have today's Go game plan firmly in your mind?
Yes.
Today is my disciple Dosaku's first Imperial exhibition.
I hope you'll play him well.
Sir.
I hope for a good match.
Today, I would like to display our way of playing Go.
Are you game?
Certainly.
But for Shogun exhibition games, we must play by plan to keep him from waiting.
We must play a real game.
An unplanned game, in front of the Shogun?
But you promised me...
That someday we'd show the Shogun
how a real game of Go is played.
Let us show the Shogun the essential way of Go.
December 1, 1661 Exhibition Go
Today, we will exhibit for you,
the third match of the sixth plan
between I, Doetsu and Sir Yasui.
Tokugawa Shogun between I, Doetsu and Sir Yasui.
Tokugawa Shogun
Is that so?
Let the play begin.
First move by Yasui.
Black stone on 17 X 4!
We would like to exhibit a real contest for you today.
How dare you!
This is a Shogun exhibition!
This is not for your pleasure!
Please understand, Sir.
How dare you!
The impudence!
Desist!
Insolent!
Withdraw!
Do as you wish.
How original to place your first stone in the center.
I thought all Go starts on a comer.
First stone on the center mark
An unconventional but profound move.
Another original move. Explain it.
It is a fierce contest between them,
to keep the power in the center.
Fascinating!
Santetsu, hurry.
Santetsu!
Make your move!
Do not rush him.
I will wait.
It is an eclipse.
An eclipse.
What is ominous?
What a shame.
Due to the unexpected advent of an eclipse,
this exhibition game
and all other castle events are now cancelled.
Eclipse...
But why?
Look...
Why an eclipse?
How dare you mock the rules of the exhibition games!
You indulge a whim to suit yourselves!
I do not believe Go to be bound by rules.
Master, Sir Yasui,
why do you two not fight it out to the highest winner?
I want to see the essential way of Go!
Silence, silence!
Rules maintain order!
Santetsu, Master Aizu calls for you.
First stone on the center mark. I've never seen that before.
I've never done that before.
But Why?
Aizu Clan Chief But why?
Aizu Clan Chief
The Go board represents the starry sky.
The center mark is the North Star.
Breaking the mold on a whim?
No...
What do you think of the exhibition Go games?
To be perfectly honest...
The ritual of exhibiting moves, in a game already won is somewhat tiresome.
Why is that? It is a glorious opportunity.
When possible, I prefer to partake in real contests.
I hear you've treated a sundial in our gardens
and are mastering the art of mathematics.
Yes.
Do you like the stars?
I like the Sun and the Moon equally.
You're familiar with North Star Reckoning?
By measuring the height of the North Star from any place,
you can discern one's position on land.
In that case, Santetsu,
go and observe the North Star.
The North Star from where?
Everywhere throughout Japan.
Throughout Japan?
Sir, I am only a humble Go player, not qualified for such a great...
You just said you are tired of Go.
Depart in half month's time.
Upon your departure,
these will be yours.
Why bestow swords on a Go player?
Do not belittle Go players.
We have trained noblemen friendly to us,
throughout the land.
Go is the reason the Aizu clan chief showers someone of his lowly position,
with such favor.
I hear he's even moved him in
to the clan residence.
Does he mean to make him a samurai?
He gave the swords so he can travel
on official business.
Does this mean I must quit playing Go?
I am sure our master has his ideas.
It's true that I love the stars,
but traveling throughout Japan...
Were you able to solve that puzzle?
No, it is beyond me.
But it is the most beautiful puzzle I've ever seen.
It is a perfect challenge.
I would like to meet this man, Seki Takakazu.
Perhaps someone at the Murase Academy will know him.
Murase Academy...
That's 15 pence.
Thank you, thank you.
Right and then left.
Thank you.
Murase Academy
Excuse me.
Here it is.
Sir...
What? Why are you here?
This is my house.
What brings you here?
Is Murase here?
My brother?
I want to find out about Saki.
Are you the one who sat down on the ground to solve that puzzle?
My name is Santetsu. I'm a Go-player by trade.
He's famous for playing a real game of Go in front of the Shogun.
Please, please come in.
This is for you.
Thank you.
OK, let's eat.
Come in.
Please.
She's learning her manners at the shrine. She refused too many marriage proposals.
They turned me down.
She's from a samurai family but dislikes samurai.
It's not that I dislike samurai.
Samurai who ridicule the abacus,
are poorly educated and clumsy with a sword,
and depend on their master in life and in death,
those are the samurai I dislike.
Even the shrine couldn't change her temperament.
Who exactly is Seki?
Someone who can solve the hardest puzzle on the spot.
An astonishing talent.
No, it's not a talent.
He's spooked.
A real eccentric, who lives in obscurity.
Were you able to solve his puzzle?
Not at all.
Neither can I.
Santetsu, would you like to read Seki's manuscript?
Yes.
Don't let it shock you too much.
Amazing.
I see, that's how you solve this.
Thank you, Santetsu. The flounder was delicious.
I thought it was a goby.
It was a mackerel.
- A flounder. - Definitely a mackerel.
A mackerel?
It was a mackerel.
I'll loan it to you so take your time reading it.
In that case, I'll borrow it for a while.
Thank you so much for today.
Excuse me.
Please wait!
You forgot.
I'm so absent minded.
Excuse me.
A Go-player who carries a sword?
The reason escapes me...
The reason?
Thank you so much.
It won't open.
An amusing fellow.
An arc segment is drawn.
Its dial meter is 1 shaku, its line is 9 sun.
What is the length of the ark?
Master Santetsu.
Will you take your Go board?
No.
Master Santetsu.
Will you take this formal kimono?
Ah, yes...
Anything else...
Wait a moment.
I'm almost, about to solve this...
I can solve it.
You depart in 5 days.
I can solve it.
I think I can.
Santetsu.
You solved the puzzle!
Yes.
I also took the liberty of
A puzzle of your own!
Let's hang it on the Academy wall.
I'm much obliged.
You not only solved the puzzle, you posed your own.
Why are you so obsessed with Saki?
Staring at Seki's puzzles,
it seems to share my interest in the stars.
What makes you think that?
The line segments and circular arcs in his puzzles
seem to represent the Heavens. They're majestic.
I'll try to solve your puzzle, Santetsu.
Please do.
Do you see the stars shaped like a dipper below the North Star?
Yes.
That Big Dipper spends one year circling the North Star.
It's a large calendar circling the Heavens.
Is that true?
I've never spent time carefully examining the stars.
I have a request of you.
What is it?
If Seki responds to my puzzle,
will you please keep it for me?
When will you return?
When that Big Dipper returns in its current position.
Yours will be a long voyage.
I'll pray for your safety.
I promise to return one year from now.
The Go Samurai.
Hiraiwa.
Young master.
It should be a good match.
In fact, I also was forbidden to play Go in public for 1 year.
Nevertheless,
I have no regrets.
Neither do I, Dosaku.
I didn't know Go could be so thrilling.
Your first stone on the center mark.
We must continue that match.
Until we do, opening move will be my secret.
Try not to become so obsessed with the star and mathematics.
Takebe Dennai / Ito Shigetaka
We will embark on our journey
to walk all over Japan and survey with the North Star.
Santetsu, come forward.
I hear you have many talents.
No, I have none.
You know Go, the way of the gods and Chinese teachings.
The art of mathematics, surveying and calendar-making.
My only true talent is for Go.
Then teach us Go along our journey.
Yes.
Odawara
We were waiting for you, Master Takebe.
Much obliged.
It's the perfect observation point.
Come, Santetsu.
Record our numbers and celestial observations.
35 degrees, 24 minutes.
The Evening star.
Finally, it's time.
Commence celestial observation!
Cover the fires.
Ready the quadrant and,
read it!
Sir!
Ready!
35 degrees, 78 minutes.
Record it, record it. Look at my numbers.
I got the degree perfect.
How vexing.
I must have measured my pace wrong somewhere.
You measured by pace?
That's right.
All the way from Edo?
Yes.
You predicted the numbers based only on measured paces and mathematics?
Heisuke records the compass bearings.
You should try it, too, Santetsu.
I'll get you back, next time.
Indeed, I look forward to it.
I am truly vexed!
Sir.
Can I ask you something?
Don't the stars look the same wherever you are?
But you see, their height changes depending on where you are.
So if you measure the degree of the North Star,
you can calculate how far you are from where you were before.
Makes no sense at all.
I lost count!
I have to measure all over.
Just what is that?
Do not speak to me.
Atsuta
Cover the fires!
Commence celestial observation!
35 degrees, 64 minutes.
My predictions are off.
What perfect insight!
A perfect prediction!
Were you sent by the stars?
Thank goodness you joined our journey.
No, I just...
I am in awe of Santetsu.
Everyone,
Santetsu has perfect insight!
Congratulations.
Master Santetsu!
I feel exceedingly well.
You were masterful.
Since early childhood, my hobby
was staring it he night sky, observing the North Star.
Teacher! The North Star has moved slightly.
Between Heaven and Earth
there is more than we can imagine.
Yamazaki Ansai there ismore than we can imagine.
Yamazaki Ansai
The world of men is also so...
Santetsu, live the life you choose!
Yes!
Just as the renowned Master Yamazaki would say.
Well spoken indeed.
This journey is your destiny, Santetsu.
Destiny...
In any case, these sardines are delicious.
Sardines? Aren't they saurys?
No, sardines...
This is mackerel.
You're also a fish expert?
I can tell you what's a mackerel or not.
That is a filefish, Sir.
A filesfish...
Filefish.
Leaving fish aside, Santetsu.
Who taught you mathematics?
I'm mostly self-taught in mathematics, but...
But?
Not so fast.
“Saki Takakazu“ .
He inspires awe.
I want to be his disciple.
Me, too.
Having a young teacher is truly excellent.
Santetsu, why didn't you become his disciple?
That didn't occur to me,
but I did post a puzzle to approach him, right before we left.
- Show me. - Show me.
Perfect Insight
What is it, Sir?
Of all the puzzles I've seen
I like this the best.
Crossing the meridian.
3 shaku 9 sun 6 bu.
Santetsu.
Come here.
Did you devise this puzzle from the mathematics?
Or from the answer.
From both...
Is there really an answer to your puzzle?
Listen well.
The number is derived from every side being 10 sun.
This condition and this condition are the same.
Therefore, there is not one answer,
but an infinite number.
That can't be...
It's a brilliantly erring puzzle.
A brilliant error with no answer.
Don't let it bother you.
You have truly studied well.
Your erring puzzle says so.
What shall I do?
Mistress En.
The puzzle I posted for Seki san was an erring puzzle.
I realized my error on route.
The shame of my life.
I swear I will create a new puzzle,
and 1 year after my promise,
will head first to Murase Academy to post it.
Leaving that puzzle posted
is rude to Seki and leaves me feeling humiliated.
You forgot your sword!
I must request that you remove
my erring puzzle and burn it, please.
I am confident
that you, Mistress En. will witness this with me.
Santetsu.
Stop it.
So, he reamed his error.
I'm sure he's terribly downhearted.
I fear our Go-Samurai is absorbed in his new puzzle
he's left his sword behind somewhere.
What do you say, En?
Will you become his bride?
Why do You ask?
He wrote he's sure you'll witness his wish together.
I'll execute his wish, but about his future...
You have another marriage proposal.
I refuse.
Why don't you worry about your own marriage prospects?
I'm so sony.
The Moon is chipped.
The Moon.
I'm not drunk...
- What? - Here.
A quarter missing.
Santetsu, record it.
The Isa Calendar
There are so many calendars in this country, it's complicated.
And none of them predicted tonight's eclipse.
The calendars are slipping.
Calendars slipping?
Careful.
Santetsu,
what do you think
if today is the day after tomorrow, on the calendar?
All of our country's calendars contain errors.
They are all based on the same calendar-making art.
The error is based on that.
The same calendar-making art?
"The Senmyo Calendar"
It's a Chinese calendar in use for 8 centuries.
Eight centuries?
Over the course of 8 centuries of course there are deviations.
All those errors add up to...
One or two days.
Why don't they revise those errors?
The Imperial Court refuses to.
Eventually,
we won't be able to predict full solar and lunar eclipses.
Hey! Help me!
I'll go help him.
Hey, what are you doing?
Let's return it.
Altogether now!
Sir Takebe.
I'm fine.
I'm vexed, I'm vexed.
Let's rent a carriage at the next inn.
No, I'm sure he's happier being carried by Heisuke.
I'm so vexed.
He found Heisuke abandoned
and raised him as his own.
We are already 2 months behind schedule.
We cannot afford
to further delay plans on my account.
Let us reunite in Choshi, which is not too far from Edo.
I have a fervent wish.
Imagine a sphere,
which envelopes
every last star
in the Heavens, and even encapsulates
all the movements of the Sun and the Moon.
I wish to enfold it
in my arms
as I go on to the next world.
That is a most delightful vision.
What do you say, Santetsu?
I will be diligent.
Be diligent.
Choshi
Forget that, pull harder!
Help me! Help me!
On high alert!
Water!
Pull harder.
Cancel the observation!
It's cancelled!
Today is 1 year. We are 6 months behind.
Yes.
How is Sir Takebe's condition?
Santetsu.
From Sir Takebe?
No, from his brother.
Sir Takebe...
You know what he was like.
I have no doubt,
he passed away, cursing his vexed fate
as he counted the stars.
I am still inexperienced.
But according to Sir Takebe's will,
I will reveal the Heavens
and then,
hold that sphere in my arms.
It's in your hands.
It's in my hands.
Go-Samurai
Oma
Commence celestial observation!
This 3 box measure filled with 1 box will hold 2 more.
So if I fill a 7 box measure
and pour 2 into here,
look, I have 5 measures.
I set it!
Got it? OK, then.
Santetsu!
It's been a while!
You go ahead and try it.
Welcome home.
I've been away for long.
Thank you. They're mackerel.
To the matter at hand, I couldn't keep my promise to do it in 1 year,
but I finally completed it.
Can you please post it?
Let me see.
I'll illustrate it to post it at the shrine.
This is a brilliant puzzle.
She was married.
There were family reasons, too.
She refused every offer
until the promised year with you was up.
I see.
Sir Santetsu! Master Mito's messenger came.
Master Mitsukuni?
Mito Clan Chief Tokugawa Mitsukuni
It has been a while.
No Go match today.
Tell me your tales of surveying.
Yes.
So, today's calendar
is off by nearly 2 days?
Unforgivable.
Why is this?
I hear it is because for 8 centuries, the officials in charge of the calendar
have passed the post to their sons, barring more talented men from the position.
The art of the calendar is considered a state secret.
It's no mystery.
Those who control the calendar,
can retain access to untold power.
Power?
In China, an emperor who en's the calendar
can be driven from his throne.
Eat your fill.
The clans are no longer at war,
the castle towers are gone,
but what has changed?
I am grateful that war is behind us,
but we bask in the sunshine of peace,
and are forbidden real fights, even without swords.
Indeed. Peace in the realm,
makes us forget our fighting spirit,
buries us in comfortable life,
robbing us of our ambitions.
In other words,
it wipes out fresh ideas.
Unless something changes, our country is doomed.
I could not agree more.
Now, eat.
Hurry.
Bite into it.
How is it?
It is very delicious.
Liar.
"Fifty years of human life
"Compare the ways of the human realm..."
Good tidings today?
You surprised me.
I must be diligent.
Tomorrow, you will call upon our chief.
Your surveying travels had good results.
I have long held a cherished wish.
Whoever governs time
pacifies the nation.
Since the days of the samurai,
no one has yet succeeded.
The shogunate and the people
remain beholden to an erroneous calendar.
An accurate calendar also carries authority.
Santetsu.
Discard the old calendar
and bring a new Celestial reckoning to this land.
Are you reforming the calendar?
You are the man in charge,
Yasui Santetsu.
I am?
That is right.
I am no more than a humble Go-player.
You are more than a mere Go-player now.
That is why I gave you a sword.
And I have thoroughly investigated the matter.
Each and every one spoke the same name.
To reform the calendar,
the man to recommend is Yasui Santetsu.
When you say "every one?"
Master Mitsukuni.
From your surveying team, Takebe,
and Ito
and Ando of our Aizu clan.
And also,
Master Yamazaki Ansai.
Master Ansai.
The calendar greatly impacts
religion, government and economic matters.
It is only the calendar, but the calendar is everything.
I order you to reform the calendar!
Yasui Santetsu.
Your opponent is the heavens.
Let me see you really fight.
As you wish.
Yasui Santetsu.
A most amusing man.
Aizu Clan Observatory in Edo
Reforming the calendar is a great honor.
Aizu Clan Observatory in Edo
I bet you're trembling with fear.
I'm not trembling, Master Ansai.
You're acting like a know-it-all now.
Look,
the castle of the chief of calendar reform is nearly completed.
An armillary sphere.
Master Santetsu!
Master Ando!
Heisuke and Yakishi, too!
Congratulations on your appointment!
Congratulations!
Everyone, I'm depending on you.
Reforming the calendar, we shoulder not only our own fates,
but the Shogunate, the peace of our people throughout the land
and the destinies of all calendar-makers and religious leaders.
This is a gigantic enterprise, in which everything is at stake.
As of today, we square off with the Heavens.
We start by analyzing the 3 calendars from every angle.
First, the Senmyo Calendar, which came from the Tang Dynasty of China.
Second, the Jyuji Calendar of Gen, the zenith of Chinese calendars.
Third, the Taito Calendar, used in the Ming Dynasty.
Achieving this will require constant observation
and mathematical analysis.
To raise the precision of the observation,
we will apply the 100-hours law and observe around the clock.
Crossing the meridian.
Meridian crossing, the hour of noon.
By measuring its shadow when the sun is highest,
we note dates for the Winter and Summer Solstice and spring and Autumn Equinox.
An eclipse!
We also observe lunar and solar eclipses
and contrast with the other calendars.
We observe the sun's path from sunrise to sunset,
every hour on the hour.
We observe the Moon likewise, night and day.
Likewise we observe the stars, and all celestial observations.
Kengyu Yoshi.
We scour literary writings by the state along with the Imperial diary
as well as Chinese texts
for dates of previous lunar and solar eclipses to contrast with calendars...
Calculate the exact day, month and year
that the Sun Goddess appeared on this Earth.
Don't just gape. That's how astounding this task is!
By applying mathematics to our observations and past records,
we deduce the calendars' accuracy
and through future observation
will discern which calendar is correct.
Here you are.
Seconds!
These are the results from the observations at Izumo.
Kato.
Yes, Sir.
Get me the Oma results.
Yes.
The armillary resembles an eggshell.
The Earth is like the yolk. It's like a surrounded arc.
For those of us on Earth, who can only stare up at the Heavens,
the only way we can touch the Heavens is to read and analyze
the movement of the Sun, the Moon and the stars.
We have decided to name this new star, which has appeared
beside the North Star, Miyasu.
Based on 3 years of everyone': study,
we have confinned that the Senmyo calendar frequently
misdates eclipses and solstices.
Our country has used it for for over 8 centuries,
and we use it to this day.
We will no longer consider the Senmyo calendar
and concentrate on our Study of the Jyuji and Taito calendars.
Master Santetsu.
It's Saki's new manuscript.
It is truly masterful.
I only recently realized,
that Seki must know the Jyuji calendar well.
So, I see.
Now that you mention it, it's apparent in that puzzle.
Yes, we must incorporate the mathematics in this manuscript.
The more I learn, I realize that the Jyuji calendar is formidable.
The solstices and the eclipses are all correct.
Additionally due tn Saki '5 brilliant mathematics,
we were able to dramatically improve
our predictions of lunar and solar eclipses and all events,
allowing us tn predict events 30 years into the future.
In addition, it gave us access to the Law of Decay,
the fundamental difference between the two calendars.
We have confirmed that in one century, the length of 1 year shifts 2 minutes
and compensated for it with the Law of Decay.
There's no question.
The Jyuji calendar is the ideal calendar for everyone.
The movement of the Heavens is not fixed. Sometimes, it moves unpredictable.
The Jyuji calendar, was created
by China's wisest men who spent enormous sums of time and money,
who achieved this with their long-term, massive scale observations.
And we have now proved it with our observation and mathematics.
The Taito calendar is a regressive calendar compared to Jyuji,
which ignored this major discovery.
In other words, let us conclude that the Jyuji calendar is by far superior!
Calendar Reform Proposal
The Jyuji calendar.
This is the most accurate calendar.
First, you should visit the Emperor
and suggest that when he orders the calendar reform,
the Shogunate will happily accept it.
The calendar has been the Emperor's sacred domain for centuries.
No errors will be forgiven.
Sir!
Imperial Palace, Kyoto
The Shogunate has delivered a petition for calendar reform.
To the Jyuji calendar.
How inauspicious.
The Jyuji calendar belonged to the Gen
who invaded our nation twice.
Respectfully,
would it not damage Imperial honor to persist
in using the Senmyo calendar,
whose defects are already apparent?
Tsuchimikado, your thoughts are shallow.
Change without purpose is what will damage Imperial honor.
I heir meddling with the calendar
shows they are exceeding the Shogunate's mandate.
And the man they put in charge
is that Go-Player who studied,
like you with Ansai.
It's a cause for laughter.
Meaning... For what reason?
They say that because the Gen calendar
is inauspicious, it cannot be used.
The Imperial Court crushed it before it was ever presented to the Emperor.
From the outset,
they saw no need for calendar reform.
Now let the real fight begin.
The Yasui family and Heninbo family have staked their pride on this match.
The opponents are both masters of the Sanchi and Doetsu families.
Sanchi has cornered both corners...
So, it's finally begun.
Doetsu has 6 losses and 8 victories.
Who can reveal the essence of Go? Will it be Doetsu?
Or will it be Sanchi?
This match will determine the grandmaster of Go.
Will there be a winner tomorrow?
In this final match, the winner takes all.
Come place your bets!
Isn't there someone willing to be against the odds!
They rubbed out our petition with ridiculous claims.
Imperial Court idiots!
They are the reason academic inquiry is collapsing.
I've hatched our next move.
Instead of the secretive Imperial Court,
let's take our case to the public, and settle this once and for all.
"3 Calendar Match"
It's great!
Step right up, everyone, gather around.
"3 Calendar Match".
Use the 3 calendar to predict the next eclipse!
This will settle which calendar is truly accurate!
Tell all your friends about this fun match!
Hear, hear, tell them!
Who on Earth permitted such a match?
But if they win, the people will wish for calendar reform.
What if they lose? The Shogunate will lose face.
If they win, the Imperial Court loses face.
Will you post it in your Academy?
Of course.
Hey!
Yes.
En.
Are you visiting?
Well, a lot happened.
What happened?
I have been divorced.
I'm sure you're busy with your match,
but you two should catch up.
Please.
I'm going out. I'll be home late.
Let me help.
I'm sorry.
Why the sudden apology?
I couldn't come home the clay I promised.
And what would have changed, if you had?
I just...
En.
Yes.
In the event I win this 3 Calendar match,
I'd finally like to propose.
Last time it was 1 year.
This time you'll make me wait 3 years?
Yes.
I won't wait any longer.
I won't make you wait.
3 Calendar Match Round 1
The hour of 6.
It's time.
Commence observation.
It is the appointed hour.
It is the 22nd hour!
There is no eclipse.
Great!
A perfect prediction.
Look at that!
3 Calendar Match Round 2
It is the 71st hour!
There is no eclipse.
Great.
3 Calendar Match Round 3
Kyoto
There is no eclipse.
3 Calendar Match Round 4
A perfect prediction.
Great!
Outside!
Who's there!
"Arrogant calendar reform shames all samurai."
"Heaven will judge you."
Enemies wherever you tum.
I'll add more guards.
3 Calendar Match Round 5
There is an eclipse.
Preparations complete.
West 15 degrees 22 minutes.
North 83 degrees 24 minutes.
What!
What is it!
Hot!
Help! Help!
Who's there!
Watch out!
Who are you!
Slop!
Put out the fire!
The fire!
Santetsu!
Master!
Master, master!
Santetsu...
No matter how reckless they may be,
no one can conceal
the Sun and the Moon from the people...
Master!
En.
Today is the final round.
Yes.
3 Calendar Match Round 6
We'll win this one.
There'll be no eclipse.
Let's start.
Just wait.
It's the 63rd hour.
There is no eclipse.
I told you!
Congratulations, sir.
Just a sip.
Really?
Just a sip.
What? What is it?
Eclipse!
Don't tell me...
There is an eclipse!
Master!
Why?
I do not know why.
Why!
Raise your face, Yasui Santetsu.
You blatantly ignored the Imperial Court's decision,
but there was an fatal error in your reformed calendar.
I am so...
Terribly sorry.
With your own hand, you managed
to expose to everyone that the calendar recommended
by the Shogunate is erroneous.
Who will take responsibility for this and how...
Santetsu's predictions...
Some are accurate,
others are not.
Master, thank you.
Now, now.
Thank you so much.
I was not able to fulfill your orders. I humbly apologize.
The Heavens are so very far away.
Santetsu.
They are unfathomably far,
but, always,
always,
keep your hands reaching for the stars.
Wherever
I may be...
I'll be watching you.
Aizu Clan Chief Passes Away
Why don't you visit the Academy?
I have been waiting.
Sir Seki paid a visit.
Right after the final round,
he left a puzzle for you.
This is...
My own erring puzzle.
But, why...
How can this be...
I want to meet Seki.
Mathematical Instruction
I understand my erring puzzle.
You thief!
You brazenly stole my mathematics.
Who the hell do you think you are?
I am...
You, who understand everything
in so much detail about mathematics.
Why could you not see the fundamental error
in the Jyuji Calendar itself!
My efforts and talents were
inadequate.
You idiot!
You became obsessed with your 3 Calendar match
on this grave matter.
And of course it's not just me!
Every mathematician in the land,
finds you unforgivable!
Not only the Imperial Court, but every samurai in the nation,
every spiritualist, diviner and priest
every one of them hates you,
ridicules you,
and mocks you!
I offer my humblest apologies.
But was infuriated by the stupid mathematicians
who envied your royal appointment.
Your puzzles amused me.
I privately realized that I, who had been secretly studying
the Jyuji Calendar, had a comrade.
But my study was pointless.
On the celestial scale,
I am no match for you.
The laws of nature
can only be discerned through mathematics and observation.
All I figured out
is that there must be some error between mathematics and observation.
But it's too much for me.
Take it with you. It's all my research.
No matter how high I reach, a mathematician like me
cannot solve the laws of nature.
You are the only man who can...
Destroy the Jyuji Calendar!
Yasui Santetsu!
I shall!
I will attempt to reform the calendar once again.
And so I have a request of you. It is my life's request.
What is it?
Please be my wife.
Are you serious.
Completely serious.
How long will it take this time?
Ten years.
I refuse.
What!
After 1 year, it was 3 years, now it's 10 years?
It won't take that long.
Firstly, when have you ever met your promised date?
Well, no...
To make sure you meet your deadline,
I'll be by your side, watching out for you.
Yes!
I'm sorry I couldn't provide a proper ceremony for you.
I prefer it this way.
And also,
I have one more request.
Another one?
Please don't die before me.
Your requests are impossible.
But still,
I'm asking you.
I understand.
But you must live a long life, too.
Yes.
I also have a request.
What is it?
Please,
hurry and undo my waist sash...
En!
The meridian crossing.
7 shaku 2 sun 7 ri.
When the Sun and the Moon cross paths...
There's a solar eclipse.
Perfect insight.
It's time to observe.
Please wait, I'll be right there.
I won't wait.
En!
Why do stars only appear at night?
We can't see them, but the stars are in the sky all day, too.
Is that true?
If you live a long life,
someday, you'll see a star during the day.
I want to see that.
The sun's orbit has shifted.
Since that time, the Jyuji Calendar has never erred.
Was it a freak chance that it erred during the 6th round of the match?
Is it impossible to understand the laws of nature by mathematics and observation?
I am truly stumped.
Why was my prediction wrong again!
I've solved it up until 99% of 99% accurately.
But there's a minute error beyond that.
I'll spend my whole life and never reach the stars!
Complaints are forbidden.
I alone cannot possibly accomplish this great task.
I quit.
If you quit, what will you do?
I'll play Go.
I can't reform the calendar in 100 years.
Aren't you ashamed to see Seki?
What the hell do you know?
I know what you need to do.
I've no sword to even kill myself with.
I understand.
I'll prepare a sword so you can take your life at any time.
All you gentlemen who want to win a quick fortune.
Today's match is between disciple and master of the Honinbo Family.
Up first is Dosaku, the unbeaten young master.
He challenges his master, Honinbo Doetsu.
To climb so far from a disciple, not an inheriting son!
His fighting spirit is strong!
Dosaku uses his mind like a sharp, efficient sword.
Only this man can breathe fresh air into the unchanging Go world.
Dosaku!
Excuse me.
Dosaku.
You hardly have life left in you.
What on Earth has happened to you?
When I saw you earlier, I had no words for you.
You were going to unravel the mystery of the stars.
And I have never once forgotten your solemn promise
to continue our Go match.
Dosaku.
Let us continue that match...
Do not speak in jest!
The Santetsu you are today, doesn't deserve to play with me.
It's time to observe.
I asked to see you because
I have a fresh idea, and am ready to take flight again.
So you will take on the Heavens again.
I am prepared to.
Sometimes the stars can mislead us.
Though mislead, I must accurately grasp the celestial formula,
and achieve a perfect vision of the Heavens.
A perfect vision of the Heavens...
Well spoken.
Fascinating.
You have our aid.
The world is wider than Japan and the Heavens are wider than the world.
Only reading Japanese texts and observing from here,
is not sufficient to crack Heaven's will.
It is critical to learn the state of astronomical studies abroad.
You want me to violate our laws banning Christian contact?
Master Mitsukuni's reach is far.
Where is Japan?
Found it. Here.
It's so small.
We are not small.
The world is large.
And the Heavens are larger still.
I simply cannot believe this Earth is round.
Please.
When the Sun is at the hour of noon,
what time is it where the Sun isn't shining?
If the Sun is crossing the meridian in Japan...
En!
Circle it while lighting it.
Yes.
There's a difference in time.
I understand now!
We did it, En!
Congratulations!
Through years of observations, we know that there is
a 6-degree gap in the orbit of the Sun, close to the winter solstice.
Which means there is a gap in the Sun's orbit.
Coincidentally,
there was no gap in the era when the Jyuji Calendar was made
and so they calculated their mathematics without the gap.
Astonishing.
So this accounts for the minute gaps in the Jyuji Calendar.
Our country and China are half of one hour apart.
By measuring the angle on the globe,
and revise the Jyuji Calendar by the 15 degree difference in location,
the eclipses are accurate.
A calendar accurate in Beijing, is 1 minute off in our country.
I see it now.
The results of your celestial observations and your theory,
are both truly brilliant.
Without your manuscript, Seki, I never would have made it here.
This calendar is unique to our nation.
You have been diligent for many years.
Have you named the calendar?
No, not yet.
The Japanese "Yamato Calendar?"
It is underserved, but I am grateful.
The calendar is the Imperial Court's cherished treasure.
But for our nation to stand alone, we need an accurate calendar.
You know Tsuchimikado?
Yes.
He and I were both educated as children by Master Ansai.
I hear that among the Imperial Court, he alone favors calendar reform.
Work with him to reform the calendar.
My pleasure.
This Yamato Calendar. I will present it to the Emperor.
Kyoto
Prince Yasutomi.
It has been too long.
What is the situation?
You had no choice but to accept their invitation.
Every other member of the Imperial Court opposes the Yamato Calendar
and have petitioned for the Taito Calendar.
Tsuchimikado,
your seat is here.
Today,
I want Master Yasui, who even persuaded Master Mito,
to teach us some Go.
Divine Role.
Throughout history, the calendar
has belonged to Imperial authority.
Only those families who have served in this capacity for centuries
can discern the will of the Heavens.
The calendar is sacred.
Surely you know, that those who doubt it
have sometimes
turned into monsters?
Even that ruler, Master Nobunaga.
With the power of the realm within reach,
he disregarded the calendar and soon thereafter,
met a mysterious death indeed.
It is truly mysterious,
the calendar.
Kyoto - Imperial Palace
I will convey an Imperial Mandate.
The petition to reform to the Yamato Calendar,
is hereby rejected.
The new calendar will be the Taito Calendar.
For the peace of the land,
the reform petition received
is hereby denied.
Why does it have to be the Taito Calendar!
To protect their power, the Imperial Court presented erroneous calendar,
neglecting the Emperor and the nation's people.
The people of all nations
have a right to trust their country's time.
Doesn't our country have a right to that, too!
The Imperial Court has many tricks up their sleeves.
Master Mito!
Did you not once tell me
how the most dangerous aspect of peace,
is the wiping you of fresh ideas?
Have you forgotten your fighting spirit!
This is not the time for Western liquor and Chinese delicacies!
What will happen to this country!
Please kill me.
Don't you value your life?
Every clay, for over 10 years, since my survey journey,
I have reached for the stars.
Educated and protected by my now deceased,
irreplaceable mentors,
I've finally achieved perfect vision for the Yamato Calendar,
only to watch it be buried for outrageous reasons.
It's not worth living in a world this rotten!
All right.
I understand the depth of your resolve.
I'll create another opportunity.
Fight your final battle in Kyoto.
I'll protect your life.
You remember this sword.
It was given to you by Master Aizu.
I'll stake my life, too.
If you mis-predict another eclipse...
As you please.
I will fight my final battle in Kyoto.
Yes.
There is no question the Yamato Calendar is superior.
All I hear is the will of Heaven
and whether I have accurately captured it.
And...
If...
I mis-predict an eclipse as I once did,
I will take my own life.
I have a request.
Please.
Don't die before me.
Please.
Kyoto
Thank you so much everyone,
for gathering here tonight.
You are welcome!
Now, I, Tsuchimikado
and Yasui Santetsu,
have come here
to tell you about our calendar.
According to the calendar, today brings good fortune.
That's true, but...
But what if
in fact, it is an unfortunate day?
Unfortunate? Don't be a fool!
It brings good fortune, it's written in the calendar.
That is true, but
the solstice, the shortest day of the year,
has been arriving
one or two days earlier than the calendar, for decades now.
What is that?
Is the calendar wrong?
And
the days auspicious and not.
Therefore,
today is inauspicious!
My daughter got married today.
Congratulations.
You schedule a ceremony for a fortunate day, when it's a cursed day.
Or you head off in a good direction
when it's actually ill omened...
We can't even travel then.
We can live our lives
in peace, because we are certain that yesterday has led to today
and that today will lead to tomorrow.
The calendar is a promise
between the Heavens and man and also among men.
I hear there is boast talk in the streets.
The Emperor has recently ordered the Taito Calendar be used
and here they are back, undeterred, petitioning for calendar reform.
They know no manners.
I wonder what Master Mito will do
if they get it wrong again...
There are two calendars here.
One the Taito Calendar, recently proclaimed
the new calendar.
The other is Santetsu's Yamato Calendar.
- Yamato Calendar. - Never heard of it.
The Yamato Calendar predicts that tomorrow, at the hour of noon,
there will be a rare solar ellipse, not seen for decades.
Not for decades?
But the Taito Calendar
predicts no eclipse for the hour of noon, tomorrow.
Will the Sun lose its shape tomorrow?
Which is the accurate calendar!
Gather here tomorrow at the hour of noon!
Gather tomorrow! Gather tomorrow!
What arrogance!
You must cancel it immediately!
Why cancel it?
What arrogance!
The Calendar is divine.
It is truly disrespectful for you to create one.
Don't spoil our fun.
What about our fortunes?
The Heavens determine that.
Are you the Heavens?
I've bet 10 coins.
You can't stop the bets.
Can't you just wait until tomorrow?
In that case,
we'll wait until the hour of noon tomorrow.
You, samurai.
What will you do, if all your talk,
turns out wrong?
If you're a samurai,
kill yourself on the spot.
Are you prepared?
Noble!
We'll help you finish it.
Tomorrow we get to see an eclipse or a hara-kiri.
Either one will be fun!
The Battle of the Eclipse Day
Master Santetsu,
if there's no contest today the next...
What vexing rain.
What vexing rain...
The grass and trees
flutter in Heaven's bounty.
The sky's cleared.
Prepare to observe!
Got it.
Hey, what is this?
You'll see.
Watch the curtain.
The curtain?
OK.
This is the Sun!
The Sun?
You're amazing!
It's round!
The Imperial noblemen are here.
Taito Calendar, Yamato Calendar.
The hour is here.
The hour of noon is finally here.
Can you, Santetsu?
Be diligent.
It's in your hands.
Santetsu,
live the life you choose.
Yes.
Destroy the Jyuji Calendar!
Yasui Santetsu!
Wherever I may be
I'll be watching you.
Only one bell left.
No eclipse.
What will he do?
There was no eclipse.
Kill yourself on the spot.
Yeah, hara-kiri!
Don't!
Master!
Don't!
Please.
Don't die before me.
Please.
An eclipse!
Part of the Sun is gone.
Master!
En!
Yours is perfect vision of the Heavens.
Master.
Master Yasui Santetsu, perfect vision!
Perfect vision!
Sir!
Perfect vision!
Everyone, Master Santetsu has perfect vision!
Master, you've done it!
Yasui Santetsu.
You used me in your ultimate match...
How much of the Sun will disappear?
A star.
The eclipse made Santetsu's
Yamato Calendar famous throughout the land.
The Emperor soon introduced it,
as the new calendar, naming it the Jynkyn Calendar.
Yasui Santetsu took the new name, Shibukawa Harumi,
and because he created Japan unique calendar,
he became Japan's first national astronomer.
Honinbo Dosaku
created an invincible lifelong record of complete victories,
and is considered the greatest Go master in history.
Do you remember this star?
Yes.
It's the star I gave you.
Santetsu and his wife, En,
by curious coincidence, passed away an exactly
the same day.
Junichi Okada
Aoi Miyazaki
Ryuta Sato
Ennosuke Ichikawa
Yu Yokoyama
Takashi Sasano
Ittoku Kishibe
Dai Watanabe
Akita Shirai
Somegoro Ichikawa
Kiichi Nakai
Koshiro Matsumoto
Produced by Fumio Inoue Nozomu Ertbki Arimasa Okada
Executive Producer Shinichiro Inoue
Based on a Novel by Tow Ubukata
Written by Masato Kato and Yojiro Takita
Music by Joe Hisaishi
Directed by Yojiro Takita
This film is based on Tow Ubukata's "Tenchi Meisatsu" Some scenes have been fictionalized for the film
English subtitles by Linda Hoagland