THE UKIYO-E CODE - Season 1

In 1855, the Ansei Earthquake struck Edo -- as Tokyo was then known -- causing horrific damage. Ukiyo-e artwork produced in the aftermath shows festivals, and busy shopping streets. University professor Miyata Hiroaki helps us decipher the clues in these images. We learn about the effect of the earthquake, the ways people coped, and the differences of opinion regarding the recovery. Analyzing these woodblock prints also offers hints on how to face modern-day issues.

In 19th-century Edo -- as Tokyo was then known -- waterways were crucial. In 1853, 4 US warships sailed into Edo Bay, causing immediate panic. University professor Miyata Hiroaki helps us decipher the clues in ukiyo-e artwork produced at the time. We learn about military training drills, major construction projects, and the contrasting needs of citizens and national security. Analyzing these woodblock prints also offers hints on how to face modern-day issues.

In Tokyo, gardening has been especially popular since the outbreak of COVID-19. But it isn't the city's first gardening boom. Ukiyo-e artwork shows people buying potted plants, composing poetry about plum blossoms and growing flowers for competitions. University professor Miyata Hiroaki helps us decipher the clues in these images. We learn how a shared interest in gardening brought people from all social backgrounds together.

In Edo—as Tokyo was then known—people lived in close proximity. Ukiyo-e artwork shows them sharing food, socializing and working together to raise children. We also see a curiosity towards other cultures. People bought clothes from other regions, and even visited far-away places themselves. University professor Miyata Hiroaki helps us decipher the clues in these images. We learn how Edo's strong community spirit helped people adapt to the arrival of Western culture.