Woodblock Printing at Takahashi Kobo – Dive Into 160 Years of Tokyo Tradition & Ukiyo-e Art

Fine ukiyo-e woodblock printing craftsmanship, handed down from the Edo period

Founded in the Edo period (1603-1867), Takahashi Kōbō is the oldest ukiyo-e woodblock printing studio in Japan, maintaining continuous operation through to today – 160 years later – using the same traditional techniques.

The unique beauty of a finished Edo-style woodblock print is the result of a three-artist division of labor, each responsible for one phase of the process: the illustrator who creates the base image, the carver who produces woodblock plates from it, and the printer who paints the plates, presses, and burnishes them to the washi paper.

Demonstration entitled “New Life, Beautiful Life” at a Tokyo Teshigoto Event in Seibu Shibuya (credit: Takahashi Kōbō via Instagram)

The first generation of Takahashi Kōbō specialized in the print phase. Since the 4th generation, the studio has become a unified operation handling all phases including concept and planning, and proudly carries forth its mission to foster and spread Edo-style woodblock printing cultural traditions. Experience this authentic ukiyo-e heritage fusing fine art with artisanal craftsmanship, and create a print unique to you.

Professionally Carved Ukiyo-e Woodblocks Are Printed on Japanese Paper

The well-known colorful ukiyo-e prints shown in museums and art exhibitions are produced by multilayered, multi-pass printing processes. In this experience, you will use the techniques of Edo woodblock printing to print 3 to 4 colored patterns on rectangular Japanese paper. Your instructor will select prints for you featuring either iconic scenes from Hokusai's famous ukiyo-e series, "Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji," including "The Great Wave of Kanagawa," or designs inspired by the beauty of Japan's four seasons in the style of Rinpa.

Printed Japanese paper: The Great Wave of Kanagawa (right) and design of Japan's four seasons in the style of Rinpa (left)

Embracing Serendipity: Printing with Care, Speed, and Delight

After receiving an explanation about Edo woodblock prints and ukiyo-e, it’s time for hands-on practice. The professional artisan will be at your side to advise you, so you can work with peace of mind.

Hand-on practice with a professional artisan

The woodblock surface is moistened before color and nori glue are applied and brushed out. The process is repeated a number of times depending on the temperature and humidity of the day. This must be done quickly to preserve moisture and color density. 

Quickly spreading the coat

After the color has bonded properly, it’s showtime. A balance of force and finesse transfers the image clearly from the plate to the paper, transferring even lines finer than 1 millimeter.

Printing with small, rapid strokes

Woodblock printing is as much artistic expression as craft. Chance fluctuations in shade or grain produced by each printer’s movements and application of pressure are features that give each print personality.

The printed Japanese paper is cut using a template and quickly glued to a bamboo fan on the same day. As your print is turned into a fan, it transforms into a one-of-a-kind art piece distinctive from the original print, created just for you. With a practical design for everyday use, experience the beauty and joy of Japanese craftsmanship in your daily life.

The finished work

Pick a Keepsake From the Print Collections of Hokusai and Hiroshige

Additionally, you can choose one ukiyo-e print (by Hokusai or Hiroshige) to take home as a souvenir from the store’s collection. It’s a special moment to appreciate the carefully crafted pieces, each one receiving dedicated attention from the artisans. Select your favorite while enjoying the view before you. Decorating your home with these pieces allows you to continue experiencing the beauty of Edo woodblock prints even after returning home.