Utagawa Kuniyoshi
Let's move to the world of Japanese legends and stories.
Utagawa Kuniyoshi’s design of the 42nd station, Kuwana, for Fifty-three Pairings for the Tokaido Road, includes the story of the brave sailor Kuwanaya Tokuzō, and his encounter with a great sea monster named Umibōzu. The monster is believed to live at the bottom of the ocean and surfaces to capsize boats when it hears its name. The name Umibōzu combines the Chinese characters for “sea” and “Buddhist monk,” possibly referring to its large, round head, similar to tonsured monks’ shaven heads. Although Japanese superstition holds that sailing on the last day of the year is inauspicious, Tokuzō nevertheless set sail. A great storm arose, and a huge monster appeared before Tokuzō. In a chilling voice, it demands, “Name the most horrible thing you know!” Without hesitation, Tokuzō shouts, “My profession is the most horrible thing I know!”
Apparently satisfied with the answer, the monster vanishes, taking the storm with it.
Have a calm Sunday, everyone!
P.S. Fascinated by legendary sea monsters and bold heroes? Japanese art is full of such captivating stories! Explore more with our Japanese Art 50 Postcards Set, a beautifully curated journey through ukiyo-e prints, mythical scenes, and timeless elegance. And don't forget to check out our brand new calendars for 2026; it's only a few more days of -25% presale!
P.P.S. Here are 10 incredible Japanese woodblock prints you need to see—each shows a different aspect of rich Japanese art.
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