Set in 20th century Japan, Daughters of Nijo: A Romance of Japan
follows the life of two identical sisters, separated at birth. Sado-ko
was raised to be a princess, and Massago was raised as a lowly country
maid. Though they were raised in separate classes and homes, Massago and
Sado-ko were always destined to meet each other. With poor living
conditions and an unfair workload, Massago is unhappy as a country maid
and though he is a nice man, Massago does not love her fiancé, Junzo.
Meanwhile, at the palace, Sado-ko spends most of her time in solitude,
feeling solemn about her future as Prince Komatzu's wife. The other
ladies of the court disprove of her, judging the fact that Sado-ko has
not succumbed to Western influences like they have. After Junzo,
Massago's fiancé, is commissioned by the palace to create a sculpture,
the two sisters are reunited. As they are each displeased with their
lives, Massago and Sado-ko see the perfect opportunity they have been
given. They decide to switch lives, and after they briefly trade enough
information for the other to take their place undetected, Massago goes
back to the palace, and Sado-ko goes to Massago's home. As they each
enjoy the parts of their sister's life that she took for granted,
Sado-ko and Massago feel happy, but when Aoi, a lady of the court who
had always envied Sado-ko, starts to cause trouble, their entire plan is
threatened.
Inspired by the classic tale of the princess and the pauper, Daughters
of Nijo: A Romance of Japan by Onoto Watanna features a sweet and fun
narrative that follows the aftermath of two sisters trading places and
lovers. Published in 1904, Daughters of Nijo: A Romance of Japan is
rarely found in print, despite its commercial success.
This edition of Daughters of Nijo: A Romance of Japan by Onoto Watanna
is now presented in an easy-to-read font and features a stunning new
cover design. With these accommodations, Daughters of Nijo: A Romance
of Japan is restored to modern standards while preserving the original
and precious mastery of Onoto Watanna's work.
