Exploring with Hokusai! The Ultimate Encyclopedia of Ukiyo-e Prints

Ukiyo-e prints are now appreciated and collected as art objects. However, in the Edo period, they were media that contained a variety of information and functioned as a mirror reflecting the social conditions of the time. At the same time, they were getting appreciated as works of art as well.

The Power of Ukiyo-e as Media

This exhibition will explore the power and possibilities of ukiyo-e prints as media by showcasing works by Hokusai, his disciples, and other artists. The appeal of ukiyo-e prints will be conveyed from various angles, such as the history of woodblock printing, changes in the production techniques of ukiyo-e prints, variations in woodblock format, the diverse subject matter, and the imagination of artists.

Exhibition Details

The exhibition runs in two terms with some exhibits changed during the period:

• 1st term: December 11, 2025 - January 18, 2026
• 2nd term: January 21 - February 23, 2026

Located on the 3rd floor Exhibition Room of The Sumida Hokusai Museum, this comprehensive exploration offers visitors a deep dive into the artistic and cultural significance of ukiyo-e prints, showcasing how these works served both as artistic masterpieces and as vital sources of information in Edo-period Japan.

Museum Hours Tuesday-Sunday: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (last admission 5:00 PM) Closed: Mondays, December 29 – January 2, 2026

Organized by Sumida City and The Sumida Hokusai Museum