Introduction

Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji, an extraordinary masterpiece created by the Ukiyo-e master Hokusai, is more than just a collection of woodblock print works. It is a vivid window into the daily life of commoners during the Edo Period of Japan, nearly two centuries ago. The captivating details in each print offer a glimpse into a world that is both familiar and yet very different from our own. As you dive into the series, your curiosity will be sparked, prompting questions about the people and places depicted, and wondering about their way of life.

This illustrated guidebook aims to provide answers to those questions and to offer a deeper understanding, not only from a perspective of art, but also of the cultural context behind the series. Through hundreds of expository illustrations and carefully selected content on Japanese culture and history, we hope to transport you to the vibrant world of Edo Japan and visually share the fascinating stories within each art piece, making the series accessible and enjoyable for all readers.

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What You Will Find In This Book Includes:

Captivating Works by Hokusai

46 masterful prints by Hokusai (including 10 extended works from the series), each diligently fine-tuned in colour to offer the best reading experience.

Full of Contents of Japanese Culture

Hand-picked materials that shed light on various aspects and themes related to Japanese culture and history, providing you indispensable information necessary for a comprehensive understanding of the context behind each title.

Visual Explanations

Hundreds of stunning illustrations, graphics, timelines, diagrams, charts, tables, and maps, facilitating your effortless understanding of the content with just a single glance.

How to read this book?

Step 1 Reading general information

In the front page of each title, you will find the following:

English title of the print
Japanese title of the print
A brief description of the print, explaining the content of the artwork
The location depicted in the print, specified using today’s geographic name
The weather condition of the print

In the content pages of each title, you will find explanations about the print. Major features of the print are highlighted. Please follow the sequential order, indicated by bullet points, to explore them.