Artwork

Nagakubo (Station 28) from the series Sixty-Nine Stations of the Kisokaido

Nagakubo (Station 28) from the series Sixty-Nine Stations of the Kisokaido is a print by the Romanticist artist Utagawa Hiroshige. It dates from 1835 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This print is one of a series depicting the Sixty-Nine Stations of the Kisokaido, a historic route connecting Edo and Kyoto.

About this work

The road shown here was like an old highway—69 stops between Tokyo and Kyoto, each with inns and food.

A small village glows under a bright moon. Travelers cross a wooden bridge, while a man leads his tired horse by lantern light. Kids play near the roadside.

Hiroshige made this print for city people who wanted a taste of country life without the long trip. The road shown here was like an old highway—69 stops between Tokyo and Kyoto, each with inns and food.

If you like this, look up *Utagawa Hiroshige (Japanese, 1797–1858)*. His prints of everyday Japan feel like postcards from the past.

Overview

This print is one of a series depicting the Sixty-Nine Stations of the Kisokaido, a historic route connecting Edo and Kyoto. It shows the Nagakubo station under moonlight.

Subject & Meaning

The scene captures travelers and locals at Nagakubo station, with a man leading a tired horse and children playing with dogs. The Wada Bridge is a focal point, with figures crossing it in the moonlight.

Technique & Style

The print uses silhouettes and contrasting light to convey a serene nighttime atmosphere. The artist's use of composition and lighting creates a sense of depth and tranquility.

Context

The Kisokaido was an important inland route with 69 post stations, offering rest and amenities to travelers. This print, like others in the series, brought the experience of travel to urban audiences.

History & Provenance

The print was created by Utagawa Hiroshige, a Japanese artist active in the 19th century. It is part of a series that reflects the artist's interest in capturing everyday life and landscapes.

Artist & collection

Artist

Utagawa Hiroshige

Utagawa Hiroshige (歌川広重) or Andō Hiroshige (安藤広重), born Andō Tokutarō (安藤徳太郎; 1797 – 12 October 1858), was a Japanese ukiyo-e artist, considered the last great master of that tradition.