あきやすみ ８ - 江戸東京博物館

Aki yasumi pt. 8 - Edo Tōkyō Hakubutsukan (Autumn Vacation part 8 - Edo-Tokyo Museum)

The day after arriving in Shinjuku (新宿), Rinko and I spent a day in Ryogoku (aka. "Sumo Town"). There we went to the Edo-Tokyo Museum (photo above courtesy of panoramio.com) to see an exquisitely beautiful exhibit of Ukiyo-e (浮世絵) prints, paintings and drawings. Some of the most accomplished artists' works are displayed there including Hishikawa Moronobu (菱川師宣), Katsushika Hokusai (葛飾北斎) and Utagawa Hiroshige (歌川広重). The exhibit is a collection of works that live at the MFA in Boston, and gives a very nice historical overview of Ukiyo-e and it's impact on Japan and on art in general. Very moving! In my opinion, these wonderful works of art really belong in Japan, but due to the decline in popularity of Ukiyo-e during the Meiji period and the subsequent surge in "Japonism" in the U.S., it isn't surprising that so many of these works were lost to Western Civilsation. This means, however, that many of you have a chance to go see them for yourself! I *highly* recommend having a look and letting their incredible beauty, subtle simbolism and rich history inspire you. The Boston MFA exhibit will be on display in Tokyo until 30-Nov.

After the museum, we had dinner at a Chanko (ちゃんこ) restaurant. Chanko, or "Sumo wrestlers' hot pot" is similar in many ways to regular nabe, but contains some different ingredients, like spicy kim-chi, noodles, thinly-sliced pork, tsukune, and seafood. All of these ingredients are very tasty together and also contribute to a delicious broth! Chanko is a very satisfying meal-- do try it when you have time.

After a peaceful and stimulating day in Ryōgoku, it was back to Shinjuku for us for more hanging out and eating sweets at cafes. ^^ Be sure to check out the Edo Tōkyō Hakubutsukan if you're into art and/or history, and you're going to be in Tokyo for a few days; this is a wonderful place!