The Beauty of Shunga — Hokusai and Utamaro: Exchange and Competition

Step into the provocative world of shunga, a traditional Japanese art form known for its erotic depictions of intimacy, often laced with humor and whimsy.

What to expect

The Beauty of Shunga — Hokusai and Utamaro: Exchange and Competition exhibition brings together over 70 rare pieces, offering a unique opportunity to explore works by two of Japan’s most celebrated ukiyo-e masters: Katsushika Hokusai and Kitagawa Utamaro. Known for their influence on both Japanese and global art, Hokusai and Utamaro used shunga to capture human sensuality in ways that were both bold and delicate.

Featured highlights include Hokusai’s legendary Plovers above Waves (Nami-chidori), on display in a Japanese museum for the first time, and Utamaro’s Summer Night Pleasure, an exquisite hanging scroll. This is a rare chance to witness these masters’ daring works up close.

Also, expect to find plenty of eyebrow-raising merch, including acrylic keychains and handkerchiefs depicting suggestive poses and red string incense — a departure from your typical Kyoto souvenirs.

Schedule

The exhibition is split into two parts:

• First half: September 7 to October 14, 2024
• Second half: October 16 to November 24, 2024

It will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, with last entry at 4:30 p.m.

Closed every Monday (if Monday is a public holiday, the museum will be closed the following Tuesday).

Tickets

Same-day tickets are priced at ¥2,200. Note that entry is strictly for those aged 18 and above, and you may be asked to show proof of age.

How to get there

The Hosomi Museum in Kyoto is a 10-minute walk from Exit 2 at Higashiyama Station on the Tozai Subway Line or a 14-minute walk from Exit 4 at Jingu-marutamachi Station on the Keihan Line.