Ukiyo-e depicting actors, courtesans, and other fashionistas of their day, as well as the lives of ordinary people, are exquisite pieces of art conveying the fashion culture of the Edo Period to us in the modern day. This second exhibition from the "Dressing Up Portrayed in Ukiyo-e" series showcases kimono and accessories. During this period in Japanese history, as townspeople gained economic power, people from all walks of life enjoyed changing kimono materials, patterns, and styles to suit the seasons and special occasions, taking pleasure in dressing either elegantly or with sophisticated style. Small accessories such as Inro and tobacco pouches worn at the waist, as well as paper holders peeking out from a kimono, were also important fashion items.

In this exhibition, we showcase the diverse designs and styles of kimono, along with small accessories, as seen in autographed ukiyo-e and nishiki-e (full-color woodblock prints). There are also actual kimono and accessories from the 17th to 19th centuries on display in cooperation with the National Museum of Japanese History. Enjoy the timeless styles of Edo fashion.