Ryokan Taigu, also known as Ryokan Taigu Yokoyama, was a Japanese Zen poet and hermit who lived from 1758 to 1831. He was born in the village of Izumozaki in Echigo Province, which is now part of Niigata Prefecture in Japan.

Ryokan's exact birthdate is unknown, but it is believed that he was born in the winter of 1758. His given name was Eizaburo, and he was the second son of a village headman. At the age of 11, he became a novice monk at the nearby temple of Banshoji. However, he left the temple after only a year and returned home to take care of his sick mother.

After his mother's death, Ryokan traveled to Edo (now Tokyo) to study poetry and calligraphy. He also studied Zen under the guidance of the famous Zen master Kokusen Roshi. However, he left his studies and returned to his village after a few years, disillusioned with the strict and regimented lifestyle of the temple.

Ryokan then lived as a hermit, dedicating himself to a life of simplicity and solitude. He built a small hut in the mountains near his village and spent his days meditating, writing poetry, and interacting with the local villagers. He became known for his kindness, simplicity, and wisdom, and people from all walks of life would come to seek his guidance and teachings.

Ryokan's poetry, which was heavily influenced by Zen Buddhism, became renowned for its simplicity, humor, and deep insight into the human condition. He often used everyday objects and experiences in his poems, such as a broken bowl or a falling leaf, to convey profound truths about life and the nature of reality.

Ryokan lived a simple and humble life until his death in 1831 at the age of 73. However, his legacy continues to live on through his poetry, which has been translated into many languages and continues to inspire people around the world. His teachings of simplicity, mindfulness, and compassion remain relevant and valuable even in today's fast-paced and materialistic world.

In conclusion, Ryokan Taigu lived from 1758 to 1831 and was a beloved Japanese Zen poet and hermit who dedicated his life to simplicity, solitude, and wisdom. His legacy continues to inspire people to this day, and his poetry remains a testament to his profound insights and teachings.