Katsushika Hokusai’s Ukiyo-e I will explain Hongan-ji Temple in Asakusa, the eastern capital of Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.
This ukiyo-e is Asakusa Hongwanji Temple crowded with tourists. It is located in present-day Asakusa, Taito Ward.
It was originally located under Kanda Myojin Shrine, but after the Great Fire of Meireki in 1657, it was moved to Asakusa.
This magnificent building with a large roof astounded the people of Edo. The roof craftsmen draw small to emphasize the size of the roof.
The composition of looking down on the town from the same height as the roof is novel.
The composition of this ukiyo-e is impressive in the contrast between the roof and Mt. Fuji.
Kite flying is a tradition of New Year’s. Based on the ukiyo-e technique of indigo printing, it depicts a vermilion kite flying.
Kites flying in the sky are effective in expressing a wide space.
Higashi Honganji is the head temple of the Jodo Shinshu Higashi Honganji sect located in Nishi-Asakusa, Taito Ward, Tokyo. The principal object of worship is Amida Nyorai.
It is an independent religious corporation, and its official name is “Jodo Shinshu Higashi Honganji sect Honzan Higashi Honganji”.
On September 1, 1923, the main hall and other buildings were destroyed by fire in the Great Kanto Earthquake. The main hall, which was destroyed by fire in 1939, was rebuilt with reinforced concrete.
The interior of the main hall was destroyed by fire in an air raid in 1945. The interior of the main hall, which was destroyed by fire in 1953, was rebuilt.
This ukiyo-e is from around 1830 to 1832. Hokusai is around 72 years old.
