Yomeimon Gate in Nikko, Tosyogu Shrine

Kawase Hasui returned to the Yomeimon Gate of Toshogu Shrine at Nikko — designated a National Treasure for its exceptional decorative carving — as a meisho-e subject across multiple print series, producing compositions that differ in season, vantage point, and atmospheric treatment. This composition presents the gate within its sacred precinct, likely framed by the avenue of ancient cryptomeria trees that have defined the approach to Nikko's shrine complex since the early Edo period. Hasui's handling of the gate's polychrome surfaces required separating gold tones, vermilion lacquer, white plaster panels, and carved reliefs across multiple precisely registered woodblocks. The surrounding moss-covered stone lanterns (toro) and the towering sugi give Hasui's compositions their characteristic balance between built and natural form. Applied on washi with bokashi gradations softening the sky and atmospheric haze dissolving the distant treeline, the image exemplifies the shin-hanga concern with mood and season as primary subjects.