Sumida Hokusai Museum: Celebrating the Ukiyo-e Master

The Sumida Hokusai Museum, opened in November 2016, stands as a tribute to Katsushika Hokusai, one of Japan's most influential ukiyo-e artists, in the very ward of Tokyo where he was born and spent most of his life. Hokusai's art, characterized by its depictions of the 'floating world' and distinct aspects of Japanese culture during the Edo period, gained him international recognition, with works like 'The Great Wave off Kanagawa' becoming iconic symbols of Japanese art. The museum itself is an architectural marvel, designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Kazuyo Sejima. Its modern, metallic structure, featuring reflective aluminum panels, stands in contrast to the traditional neighborhood, symbolizing the cutting-edge face of Sumida. The design incorporates multiple entrances, creating an open and accessible environment for visitors. Inside, the museum offers a comprehensive exploration of Hokusai's artistic evolution. The permanent exhibition on the top floor features high-resolution replicas of his famous works, providing an intimate look at his techniques and subjects. Interactive panels and multilingual information enhance the experience, offering insights into Hokusai's life, work, and the art of woodblock printing. The museum also recreates Hokusai's studio, complete with figures of the artist and his daughter, offering a glimpse into his creative process. Temporary exhibitions on the third and fourth floors showcase original artworks and explore different aspects of Hokusai's career, such as his early works, his relationship with manga, and his influence on Western art. The museum also houses a library and a museum shop with Hokusai-related goods.