Wakayama was born in Togo, Miyazaki, (now part of the city of Hyūga) as the eldest son of a doctor.

He became interested in poetry from middle school, taking the name of "Bokusui" from the age of 18.

After graduation, he was hired by the Chuo Shimbun newspaper in 1909, but quit after only five months.

He also loved sake, and heavy drinking eventually resulted in cirrhosis of the liver.

Jisei nado zansetsu ni ka mo nakarikeri A parting word?