Utagawa Hiroshige (1797–1858) was one of the last great artists of the ukiyo-e tradition. The term ukiyo-e literally means "pictures of the floating world" and referred to a specific genre of woodblock art that flourished from the 17th to the 19th century. Subjects ranged from the bright lights and attractions of Edo (today, Tokyo) to spectacular natural landscapes. In the West, Hiroshige's prints became exemplary of Japonisme that spread throughout Europe and defined the visual image of Japan in the Western world. Since they could be mass-produced, ukiyo-e works were often used as designs for fans, cards, and illustrated books. The style influenced many artists of Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and Art Nouveau, with Vincent van Gogh and James Abbott McNeill Whistler being particularly inspired by Hiroshige's landscapes. This introductory book presents key images from Hiroshige's vibrant and colorful portfolio, full of cherry blossoms, beautiful women, Kabuki actors, and bustling markets, introducing readers to one of the greats of Asian art history.