CSEAS Newsletter2026.2

Notes from the Field

In Memory of Solahudin

Masaaki Okamoto

Mr. Solahudin, who wrote extensively on Indonesian socio-political issues and whose reports were widely referenced, has passed away. We remember him fondly, recalling his time spent in Kyoto.

Notes from the Field

Legend and Legacy: Oei Hui Lan’s Biographies

YuNing Henares

Fashion is another eloquent language. Exploring the allure of Oei Hui Lan’s unique style and examining multilingual biographies of this Chinese woman, born in Dutch colonial Indonesia, whose turbulent life is recounted.

New Staff

Takehiro Kashiyama

Dr. Takehiro Kashiyama, Associate Professor of informatics, joined CSEAS in December 2025. Read his message.

Letter from the Kamogawa River

Kanji
A Means of Rich Expression or a Barrier of Armor?

Text: Taihei Kikuchi 
Illustration: Atelier Epocha

What is it about Kanji culture that lives within the Japanese? Why did we continue to use Kanji even after the invention of Kana? We’ll explore alongside unique attempts to give shape to their own voices.