Kan Shimozawa, a renowned Japanese writer, embarked on a remarkable journey after graduating from the University of Meiji's Department of Law. He decided to pursue a career in journalism, joining esteemed publications such as Yomiuri Shinbun and Tokyo Gendai. In the 1920s, Shimozawa began to shift his focus towards writing novels, particularly period adventure dramas.
His literary endeavors gained momentum from 1931, as his novels were adapted into films, with over 100 movie adaptations to date. However, it was the publication of his groundbreaking novel "Shinsengumi Chronicles" in 1937 that catapulted him to fame. This revolutionary work reimagined the legendary story of Isamu Kondo and Ryoma Sakamoto, and has since been adapted into two films, once in 1954 and again in 1963.
Shimozawa's notable works include "Kaishu Katsu" and "Fujitaka", as well as his compilation "Atsuta Diary". Many of his most iconic creations have been brought to life on the big screen, with "Obozu Tengu" ("Goblin Priest") being adapted twice, in 1954 and 1962, and "Yataro Gasa" receiving twelve film adaptations between 1931 and 1960. The popular "Zato Ichi" has been adapted over 20 times, starting from 1962.
