Trace Tokyo's Streets Through Ukiyo-e: A "TOKYO Guidebook" Steeped in Historical Romance is Born
Hiroshige Utagawa's "One Hundred Famous Views of Edo," his representative work from the final years of his life during the late Edo period.
A new book, "Hiroshige TOKYO: One Hundred Famous Views of Edo," has just been released, compiling a total of 120 famous works from this series, such as "Sudden Shower over Shin-Ōhashi Bridge and Atake" and "Fireworks at Ryōgoku," organized by region.
A Comprehensive Volume Blending Guidebook and Art Collection
This book features a unique concept where the authors, Makiko Koike and Fumi Ikeda, spent over six months conducting on-site research at the locations depicted in the artworks, including current photographs for all pieces.
By comparing the artworks with the photographs, readers can discover that "the scenery Hiroshige saw" still remains in Tokyo.
Conversely, many places have dramatically transformed, with highways and the Skytree appearing in vast skies, or areas once depicted as the sea now being residential neighborhoods, making the changes from Edo to Tokyo equally fascinating.
Furthermore, a map is included with every artwork, allowing visitors to actually go to the depicted locations.
To facilitate efficient exploration of these sites, the book is organized by region, and also introduces nearby historical remnants such as temples, shrines, and stone monuments, making it an ideal volume for exploring Edo's famous spots with practicality in mind.
"Hiroshige TOKYO: One Hundred Famous Views of Edo"
Price: ¥2500 (excluding tax)
ISBN:9784062205078
Written by Makiko Koike and Fumi Ikeda