Who Are the Most Famous Ukiyo-e Artists?

Japanese woodblock prints, or ukiyo-e, became a major art form during the Edo period (1603–1868). Many artists contributed to this rich tradition, but a few names stand out for their innovation, style, and lasting influence. In this post, we’ll introduce the most famous ukiyo-e artists and some important figures from later generations.

🌊 Katsushika Hokusai (1760–1849)

Hokusai is perhaps the most well-known ukiyo-e artist worldwide. His masterpiece The Great Wave off Kanagawa is one of the most recognized images in Japanese art. Hokusai created detailed landscapes, nature scenes, and illustrated books. His series Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji helped make landscape prints a major genre in ukiyo-e.

🌉 The Three Hiroshiges

The name Hiroshige actually refers to three different artists from the Utagawa school, all famous for their landscape prints:

• Utagawa Hiroshige I (1797–1858) – The most famous, known for atmospheric landscapes like The Fifty-Three Stations of the Tōkaidō.
• Utagawa Hiroshige II (1826–1869) – Adopted the name after the first Hiroshige’s death, continuing similar landscape themes.
• Utagawa Hiroshige III (1843–1894) – The last to use the name, active during the Meiji period with evolving styles.

💃 Kitagawa Utamaro (c. 1753–1806)

Utamaro was famous for his portraits of women, called bijin-ga. His prints captured the beauty, fashion, and daily life of Edo-period women with elegance and detail.

🎭 Toshusai Sharaku (active 1794–1795)

Sharaku created bold, expressive portraits of kabuki actors during his brief career. His dramatic style set him apart, making him a unique figure in ukiyo-e history.

🏯 Suzuki Harunobu (1725–1770)

Harunobu pioneered nishiki-e or full-color prints, using multiple blocks to add layers of color and detail. His works often show romantic and everyday scenes with delicate colors.

🎨 Other Notable Edo Artists

• Torii Kiyonaga – Known for graceful depictions of women and theater scenes.
• Utagawa Kuniyoshi – Famous for dynamic warrior prints and mythological subjects.
• Utagawa Kunisada – A popular artist of his time, known for portraits and fashion prints.

🌿 New Wave Artists: Kawase Hasui & Ohara Koson

After the Edo period, artists like Kawase Hasui (1883–1957) and Ohara Koson (1877–1945) brought ukiyo-e into the modern era. Hasui is celebrated for his beautiful shin-hanga (new prints) landscapes, capturing serene scenes with rich colors and light. Koson specialized in kacho-e—prints of birds and flowers—known for their delicate detail and natural beauty.

🖼️ Explore Prints by the Masters

Each ukiyo-e artist brought their own style and subject matter to life. From the bold waves of Hokusai to the peaceful landscapes of Hasui, these artists shaped the art world and continue to inspire collectors today.

Want to see their work for yourself? Browse our ukiyo-e print collection featuring pieces inspired by these legendary artists. Whether you're starting a collection or just exploring, you’ll find timeless beauty and history in every print.