Ukiyo-e, traditional Japanese woodblock prints that vividly depict the daily lives and customs of Edo-period commoners, have today established themselves as highly regarded art worldwide. However, at the time, ukiyo-e circulated as publications, functioning as everyday items and becoming a familiar and beloved presence in the lives of Edo residents. From a medium rooted in ordinary life to an art…
Kyōsai Kawanabe (1831–1889) was an artist who flourished from the late Edo period into the Meiji era. Incorporating both ukiyo-e artwork (traditional Japanese woodblock paintings and prints) and Western painting styles, he was celebrated as a genius with “nothing he could not draw.” Thanks to the influence of cultural figures who knew Kyōsai personally, his broad range of styles and…
Located in Sumida, Tokyo, the “TOBACCO ＆ SALT MUSEUM” (referred to hereafter as “Tobacco & Salt Museum”) is, as its name suggests, a unique museum where visitors can learn about the history and culture of tobacco and salt. But that’s not all—the museum is also home to an impressive collection of ukiyo-e prints. These traditional woodblock prints from the Edo…
Nestled slightly away from the hustle and bustle of Shibuya and Harajuku, the Ota Memorial Museum of Art houses and exhibits a magnificent collection of ukiyo-e artwork (traditional Japanese woodblock paintings and prints) collected by the late businessman Seizō Ota V (1893-1977). The museum boasts one of the world’s largest ukiyo-e collections, featuring masterpieces by renowned artists such as Katsushika…
Ginza is an area in Tokyo where tradition and innovation merge. In recent years, Ginza has often been known as a high-end shopping district, but its appeal goes far beyond shopping. As symbolized by the Kabukiza Theatre where kabuki is performed, Ginza has long been a center of arts and culture. Even today, the area around Ginza Station is home…
Known as one of Japan’s most famous cherry blossom spots, Ueno Park in Tokyo delights visitors when approximately 1,000 cherry trees throughout the park grounds and surrounding areas reach full bloom in spring. However, Ueno Park is not just a springtime attraction—it’s a destination that offers something year-round. In addition to Ueno Zoo, the park is home to numerous museums…
Ueno, located in Taito-ku (Taito Ward), Tokyo, is often referred to as the Museum District. The reason for this can be found in “Ueno Onshi Park” (hereafter referred to as “Ueno Park”), which is known as one of Ueno’s foremost tourist destinations. Museums and art galleries are scattered throughout the grounds of Ueno Park, all within walking distance. It’s the…