Bringing the "Serenity and Elegance" of Gion, Kyoto into Your Daily Life
Beyond the bustling main street, a neat row of traditional townhouses and cobblestone streets continues.
The narrow alleyways leading toward Tatsumi Bridge, where a lively atmosphere still lingers, evoke a calm and refined ambiance.
This is a woodblock print depicting the everyday scenery of Kyoto.
Hand-printed Woodblock Print with a "Warm Presence"
Produced by Kyoto’s long-established shop, Takezasa-do, this is a "hand-printed woodblock print." Using traditional hand-pressing techniques, each piece is carefully printed, resulting in a unique, one-of-a-kind texture that cannot be found elsewhere.
The size is slightly larger than a postcard. Its elegant appearance makes it suitable for display on a desk or in small spaces, whether placed in the living room, entrance, or hallway, adding artistic charm wherever it is displayed.
【Recommended for these people】- Those who love Kyoto, Japanese culture, or modern Japanese aesthetics- Those who want to incorporate the tranquility and elegance of Gion into their daily life- Those seeking compact, stylish art pieces
Woodblock prints are not just for decoration; they serve as interior art that brings "peace of mind and travel memories."
In daily life, they subtly bring the atmosphere of Kyoto, offering deep relaxation and vibrant color. Please pick one up and experience its rich world.
Perfect for a special gift
Set against the historic streets of Kyoto, this piece expresses respect for Japanese culture and makes a meaningful gift that conveys refined travel memories.
Its small, lightweight design combines modern flair with traditional beauty, making it an excellent choice for celebrating new home or business openings.
Materials
The woodblock print uses high-quality Echizen washi (washi paper) made from carefully selected kozo (mulberry) fibers produced in Echizen, Fukui Prefecture. It is the finest hand-made washi paper suitable for woodblock printing.
The design is created using the traditional "hand-pressing woodblock print" technique, where carved images on wood are colored onto paper one color at a time.
Woodblock Artist: Kenji Takenaka
Kenji Takenaka, the creator of the Ishibe Alley piece, is the fifth-generation head of Takenaka Mokuhanga. He learned the craft from the current head, Kiyohachi Takenaka, from childhood, mastering the techniques of woodblock printing.
He captures subjects with bold compositions and vivid colors, expressing a simple yet profound worldview with a sense of depth.
He holds exhibitions mainly in Kyoto and other regions, not only creating works but also offering design services using woodblock prints for companies, proposing new ways to enjoy this traditional art.
Some of his works are housed at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and the Honolulu Museum of Art. He actively engages in workshops and exchanges through woodblock printing both domestically and internationally.
(Images provided by Takezasa-do)
About the "Takezasa-do" Brand
Founded in Kyoto in 1891, Takenaka Mokuhanga has inherited over 130 years of diverse techniques, from reproductions of Japanese paintings to commercial printing.
The current head, Kiyohachi Takenaka, researches traditional techniques and passes them on to younger generations. The fifth-generation Kenji Takenaka established Takezasa-do, creating new works and selling woodblock prints and paper stationery at their shop.
The sixth-generation, Yuko Harada, is popular for her designs that fuse tradition and modernity, leading Takezasa-do’s growth.
Today, the company also develops product packaging utilizing woodblock prints and restores antique prints, constantly exploring new possibilities.
(Images provided by Takezasa-do)
【Size】- Artwork: approximately 11cm (height) × 15cm (width)- Paper: approximately 13.5cm (height) × 18.5cm (width)
【Notes】- Frame is not included.- Edition numbers cannot be specified.- Due to lighting conditions, the color of the product may differ between the displayed image and the actual item.