The Fifty-three Stations of the Tōkaidō Facts for Kids

A portrait of Hiroshige by Utagawa Kunisada.

The Fifty-Three Stations of the Tōkaidō (東海道五十三次, Tōkaidō Gojūsan-tsugi) is a famous series of Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints. These prints were made by a well-known artist named Hiroshige. He created many different versions of this popular subject.

Ukiyo-e prints are a type of Japanese art that was popular from the 17th to the 19th centuries. They often showed scenes from everyday life, famous places, or actors and beautiful women.

Hiroshige's Journey on the Tōkaidō Road
What are the "Stations"?
Some Famous Stations
Images for kids
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Hiroshige's Journey on the Tōkaidō Road

In 1832, Hiroshige took an important trip along the Tōkaidō road. This road was a main route connecting Edo (which is now Tokyo) to Kyoto. Kyoto was the home of the Emperor of Japan.

Hiroshige was part of a special group from the Tokugawa government. The Tokugawa Shogunate was the military government that ruled Japan during this time. Their trip was to visit the Emperor's court in Kyoto.

During his journey, Hiroshige made many sketches. These sketches later became the basis for his famous series of prints.

What are the "Stations"?

The Tōkaidō road had 53 "stations" along its path. These stations were like rest stops or small towns where travelers could eat, sleep, and prepare for the next part of their journey.

Hiroshige's series of prints shows each of these 53 stations. He also made two extra prints:

One print shows the very start of the journey from Edo.
Another print shows the end of the journey in Kyoto, the Imperial capital.

Each print captures a unique scene from that specific station or part of the road. They show people traveling, beautiful landscapes, and daily life in old Japan.

Some Famous Stations

Here are a few examples of the stations Hiroshige captured in his art:

Nihonbashi Bridge: This was the starting point in Edo, known as "the bridge of Japan."
Shinagawa: The first station outside of Edo, often bustling with travelers.
Hakone: A mountainous station known for its challenging passes and beautiful views.
Kambara: Famous for its snowy landscape, even though it rarely snowed there.
Shōno: Depicts travelers caught in a sudden rainstorm.
Kyoto: The final destination, showing the arrival at the Sanjō Ōhashi Bridge.

Hiroshige's prints helped people imagine what it was like to travel this important road. They are still loved today for their beauty and for showing us a glimpse into Japan's past.