Five-storied Pagoda at Nikko (Nikko Goju no to)

Date:: 1920
Medium:: Color woodblock print; oban
Format:: Oban
Dimensions:: 42 × 29.1 cm
Publisher:: Doi Sadaichi
Edition:: Published by Watanabe Shozaburo
Source:: Art Institute of Chicago

Typical Price

One of Koitsu's most iconic subjects. First editions from the 1930s Doi Hangaten series command the strongest premiums; his "Ginza in Rain" achieved $19,050 at Christie's in 2025.

Later/posthumous editions: $800–$2,500
Lifetime Doi Hangaten editions: $3,000–$8,000
First editions in exceptional condition: $8,000–$19,000

Description

The five-tiered pagoda at Toshogu Shrine in Nikko is one of Japan's most photographed wooden structures, its interlocking bracket system and lack of a central support post representing a pinnacle of Edo-period carpentry. Koitsu's 1920 print — an early work from before his full conversion to [shin-hanga](/glossary/shin-hanga) — renders the pagoda against a clear sky, the structure's deep red lacquer and gold fittings translated into the woodblock medium with careful color registration. The print predates his mature atmospheric style but demonstrates his early command of architectural subjects.