Selected by ART Driven Tokyo
Ukiyo-e, the traditional woodblock prints that captured the spirit of Edo-period Japan, still feel fresh and stylish today.
Van Gogh and Monet were both fascinated by Ukiyo-e. If you are planning a trip to Japan, here are 4 must-visit museums where you can experience the magic of Ukiyo-e.
The Sumida Hokusai Museum (Tokyo, Ryogoku)
Meet the legendary master, Katsushika Hokusai, up close!
Did you know that the famous “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji” by Katsushika Hokusai actually has 46 pictures in total? He was forced to paint 10 extra pictures because they became so popular.
Home of the iconic “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji,” this sleek, modern museum celebrates the life and art of Hokusai.
It’s just a short walk from Ryogoku Station — super easy to find!
▶ Tip: Check their website for special exhibitions before you go!
HP: https://hokusai-museum.jp/?lang=en
Ota Memorial Museum of Art (Tokyo, Harajuku)
Hidden just behind the trendy Takeshita Street, dedicated entirely to Ukiyo-e, this peaceful museum is a true hidden gem.
One of the paintings in the collection, “Courtesan Reading a Letter” by Utamaro Kitagawa, depicts a prostitute in a Yoshiwara brothel eagerly reading a long love letter sent by her lover.
▶ Tip: The exhibits change frequently, so it’s worth visiting more than once!
HP: https://www.ukiyoe-ota-muse.jp/eng
Kawasaki Ukiyo-e Gallery (Kanagawa, Kawasaki)
Located a short walk from JR Kawasaki Station. The collection includes “An Elegant Parody of the Seven Komachis” by Harunobu Suzuki, the only one of its kind in the world.
▶ Tip: Great spot for a quick, no-pressure Ukiyo-e debut!
HP: https://ukiyo-e.gallery/en/
Fujisawa Ukiyo-e Museum (Kanagawa, Fujisawa)
Just a 5-minute walk from Tsujido Station, this cozy museum focuses on local connections to Ukiyo-e art.
▶ Perfect to combine with a day trip to the Shonan beaches or Kamakura!
HP: https://fujisawa-ukiyoekan.net/f/home-en/
Pick a museum, step in, and let yourself fall in love with the vibrant world of Ukiyo-e.
Who knows — you might even find your favorite artist!
