Tokaido Hiroshige Museum

The Tokaido Hiroshige Museum of Art (静岡市東海道広重美術館, Shizuoka-shi Tōkaidō Hiroshige Bijutsukan), located in the historical post town of Yui along the former Tokaido highway, is a tribute to the renowned ukiyo-e artist Utagawa Hiroshige. Famous for his stunning woodblock prints, including the “53 Stations of the Tokaido” and “100 Famous Views of Edo,” Hiroshige’s work captures the beauty and culture of 19th-century Japan. Opened in 1994, the museum is situated near the Satta Pass, which is famously depicted in one of Hiroshige’s prints, offering visitors a chance to step into the world that inspired the artist. The museum’s location along the historic Tokaido road, once the main route connecting Tokyo and Kyoto, adds to the authenticity of the experience.

The museum is divided into two main sections: a permanent exhibition that introduces ukiyo-e as an art form and provides an in-depth look into Hiroshige’s life and work, and a rotating temporary exhibition space that highlights selected pieces from Hiroshige and his students. For those with an interest in traditional Japanese art, particularly the ukiyo-e style and Hiroshige’s iconic prints, the museum offers a unique and immersive experience. It’s a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts looking to discover the legacy of one of Japan’s most influential artists.