Ryokan Taigu is considered one of the most beloved and influential poets in Japanese history. His simple and profound poetry has captured the hearts of many and continues to inspire readers to this day. While he did not publish any collections of his own work during his lifetime, his poems were collected and published posthumously, making them accessible to a wider audience.

One of the most famous collections of Ryokan's poetry is "One Robe, One Bowl." This collection was compiled by his disciple, Teishin, and includes over 300 of Ryokan's poems. The title of the collection is taken from one of Ryokan's most famous poems, which reads:

One robe, one bowl, The whole world is my home. In the vastness of the sky, I am just a passing cloud.

This poem encapsulates Ryokan's simple and humble way of life as a hermit, living in a small thatched hut in the mountains. His poems often reflect his deep connection with nature and his spiritual journey as a Zen practitioner.

Another famous collection of Ryokan's poetry is "Dewdrops on a Lotus Leaf." This collection was compiled by Reihaku, another one of Ryokan's disciples. It includes 100 of Ryokan's poems, each accompanied by a short commentary by Reihaku. This collection also includes some of Ryokan's calligraphy, which adds a visual element to his poetry.

Aside from these two collections, there are numerous other publications that feature Ryokan's poetry, both in English and Japanese. Some notable ones include "Sky Above, Great Wind: The Life and Poetry of Zen Master Ryokan" by Kazuaki Tanahashi and "Ryokan: Zen Monk-Poet of Japan" by John Stevens.

What makes Ryokan's poetry stand out is its simplicity and directness. He often used everyday language and imagery to convey deep spiritual insights. His poems are also known for their sense of humor and playfulness, which adds a touch of lightness to his otherwise serious spiritual themes.

In conclusion, while Ryokan did not publish any collections of his own work, his poetry has been collected and published by his disciples and other admirers. His poems continue to be cherished and studied by many, making him a beloved figure in the world of Japanese literature.