Hirata Kokugaku and the National Network

This chapter introduces Hirata Atsutane and his thought. Atsutane was a disciple of the late kokugaku scholar Motoori Norinaga, and was recognized as a “Great Man” of the same philosophical tradition. It discusses Atsutane contributions to kokugaku thought, which included new theories on spirits, the spirit realm, the afterlife, as well as the assertion of Japan's place of greatness in the world due to the favor and blessings of the gods of the Japanese pantheon. The chapter also examines the Ibukinoya academy, its succession by his descendants, and the national network of disciples. It highlights Hirata kokugaku through the lens of the Tsugaru disciples and their common interests, which included ethnographic research, attention to the north and spirits, and faith in the gods. Ultimately, it illustrates how Atsutane's concern for commoners in the “countries” as well as his religiosity drew a large following of disciples who formed a national network based around the academy. The chapter then describes the key figures and activities of disciple groups in Shimōsa, Shinano, and Akita to demonstrate social diversity within the academy.