Authentic Traditional Cultural Experiences Tokyo: Discover the Unique Happiness Our Ukiyo-e Tour Brings
In this second part of our series on “Authentic Traditional Cultural Experiences” around the Kagurazaka area of Tokyo, we introduce “Ukiyo-e Woodblock Printing.” We’ll provide a brief overview of what you can gain from this unique experience.
For those who haven’t read the first post, here’s a quick recap of participant ratings for our tours: as of October 30, 2024, our tours have received an impressive average score of 4.96 out of 5 (equivalent to 99.3 out of 100). This high level of satisfaction reflects the sense of “something special” that participants feel they gain from our tours. In a word, we believe that “something special” is “happiness,” as shown by the smiles and comments from participants featured in our “Users’ Voices,” such as “This was the best experience of my life.” To help you understand what brings this sense of happiness, we’ll share a summary of what each tour offers.
No.2: Ukiyo-e Woodblock Printing
What You Will Gain from This Tour
Learn from a legendary Ukiyo-e craftsman, whose work is celebrated in institutions like the British Museum, how to appreciate and understand the unique designs of famous Ukiyo-e.
Experience the art of Ukiyo-e firsthand at Japan's oldest Ukiyo-e workshop, guided by “A Master of Traditional Crafts.”
Choose from 200 Ukiyo-e designs to purchase, bringing home a unique piece of Japanese art.
Discovering the Art and Craftsmanship Behind Ukiyo-e: A Deeper Appreciation through Ms. Takahashi’s Guidance
I personally love admiring Ukiyo-e at museums. I’m drawn to the design and artistry that have fascinated people around the world. However, when I received guidance on appreciating Ukiyo-e from Yukiko Takahashi, President of Takahashi Kobo (Studio), I realized that my previous understanding of Ukiyo-e had been quite superficial. Through Ms. Takahashi’s instruction, I came to appreciate that Ukiyo-e is a collaborative work involving not only Eshi (painters), like Hokusai or Sharaku, but also skilled Horishi (carvers) and Surishi (printers).
I also learned for the first time that Ukiyo-e would not exist without the role of the “Hanmoto,” the publisher who managed the entire production process. While Ukiyo-e is a form of art, it was also a publishing and manufacturing industry, relying on the cooperation of many artisans.
Ukiyo-e: Art for the People and the Cultural Foundation of Japan
Because Ukiyo-e was mass-produced, it became accessible to the common people at very low prices (about 200-300 yen in today’s currency, or around 2 USD). Art was not exclusively reserved for the elite, as it was in Europe, but could be enjoyed by ordinary people, forming a significant part of Japan’s cultural foundation. Through Ukiyo-e, one can learn much about the essence of Japanese culture.
Ms. Yukiko Takahashi is a renowned Ukiyo-e artisan who has lectured and demonstrated her work at prestigious museums worldwide, including the British Museum. She exudes an air of sophistication, and everyone who meets her is immediately charmed. Meeting her has been a treasured experience not only for me but for many others.
Experience the True Brilliance of Ukiyo-e: A Lifelong Treasure Awaits in Central Tokyo
The frequent visits of international guests to Tokyo’s Sumida Hokusai Museum and Ota Memorial Museum of Art highlight the global popularity of Ukiyo-e. However, only through Ms. Takahashi’s guidance can one truly understand the brilliance of Ukiyo-e and the mature popular culture that has shaped Japanese heritage. Don’t miss this precious experience right in central Tokyo. A lifelong treasure awaits you.
Tour Details
Tour Duration: 2 hours
Location: Takahashi Kobo (Studio). The nearest station is Edogawabashi Station on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line.
Price: 40,000 yen per person, including one Ukiyo-e print made by the artisan, valued at 20,000 yen. Minimum of 2 participants, maximum of 8 (all private).
Age Requirement: Ages 6 and above
Booking Period: Reservations must be made at least 3 days in advance.
Accessibility: Due to steps in the old workshop, wheelchairs and strollers are not permitted.
Meeting Point: The meeting location will be arranged in consultation with the customer. Hotel pickup is also available for an additional fee.
Book Each Experience
How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
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