Okitsu-cho, Suruga - Hasui Kawase

A serene 1935 woodblock print by Hasui Kawase, capturing the tiled rooftops of Okitsu-cho overlooking the calm waters of Suruga.

Hasui Kawase produced this woodblock print in 1935 as part of his extensive documentation of the Japanese countryside. The composition captures a view of Okitsu-cho in the Suruga province, looking out across the water toward distant mountains. The foreground is dominated by the tiled roofs of the town, rendered with precise, rhythmic lines that create a sense of order and density. A single white-walled structure stands out against the darker tones of the surrounding architecture, providing a visual anchor for the viewer. Beyond the rooftops, the sea stretches toward the horizon, depicted in a gradient of blue that suggests a calm, clear day. The distant mountains are silhouetted against a sky filled with soft, billowing clouds. Small boats are visible on the water, adding a sense of scale and human activity to the scene. Kawase was a central figure in the Shin-hanga movement, which sought to revitalise traditional woodblock printing by incorporating Western techniques of light, shadow, and atmospheric perspective while maintaining the aesthetic sensibilities of the Edo period. This print demonstrates Kawase's ability to balance architectural detail with the expansive nature of the coastal environment. The colour palette is restrained, relying on variations of blue, grey, and white to convey the mood of the location. The work is a characteristic example of his approach to travel-themed prints, where he focused on the quiet, everyday beauty of regional Japan. By avoiding overly dramatic elements, he allows the viewer to observe the scene with a sense of stillness. The print reflects the technical precision of the Watanabe Shozaburo publishing house, which collaborated with Kawase to ensure the quality of the woodblock carving and printing process.