Hakone, 10th Station of the Tokaido - Utagawa Hiroshige

A classic woodblock print by Utagawa Hiroshige from his series The Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido, depicting the mountainous terrain of Hakone.

This woodblock print is part of the series The Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido, which documents the route between Edo and Kyoto. Utagawa Hiroshige depicts the mountainous terrain of Hakone, a location known for its difficult passage. The composition is dominated by a steep, craggy cliff face that rises sharply from the shore of Lake Ashi. The artist uses a palette of muted greens, ochres, and blues to define the geological forms. Small figures of travellers are visible as they navigate the winding path along the slope, providing a sense of scale against the imposing rock formations.

In the distance, the snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji appears, balanced by the deep blue expanse of the lake. Hiroshige employs a flattened perspective, typical of the Ukiyo-e tradition, to organise the elements of the scene. The print demonstrates his ability to capture atmospheric conditions and the specific character of Japanese geography. The use of colour blocks creates clear boundaries between the water, the mountains, and the sky, while the calligraphic lines of the trees and rocks add texture to the composition. This work reflects the popularity of travel-themed art during the Edo period, offering viewers a glimpse into the varied terrain encountered by those journeying along the Tokaido road. The print is a representative example of Hiroshige's approach to travel imagery, focusing on the visual experience of the journey rather than purely topographical accuracy.