Travel back to the late Edo period in Japan and discover the life and legacy of Tsutaya Jūzaburō, one of Japan’s most influential cultural figures. Beginning as a humble book lender, Tsutajū rose to become a publishing and media giant whose keen eye for talent introduced the world to masters like Utamaro and Sharaku. More than a publisher, he was a visionary art director who built networks linking courtesans, Kabuki actors, and artists, creating a dynamic multi-genre cultural movement. This lecture explores his genius and reveals how Tsutaya shaped the vibrant artistic pulse of Edo, the city we know today as Tokyo.

DELIVERY MODE

• Face-to-Face / Online

COURSE OUTLINE

• Tsutaya JUzaburo’s humble beginnings as a bookseller in the Yoshiwara district of Edo.
• His publication of beautiful illustrated guides to the courtesans of Yoshiwara and the poetry of the cultural elite of Edo (today’s Tokyo).
• The vibrant networks of courtesans, Kabuki, and artists that defined Edo’s creative world.
• His unique ability to identify artistic talent and mentor artists and writers.

COURSE MATERIALS

John McBride will provide a link to his translation of Professor Tanaka Yuko’s seminal work on Tsutaya Juzaburo.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Understand how Tsutaya Juzaburo transformed Edo publishing into a powerful cultural industry.
2. Be aware of his discovery and promotion of ukiyo-e masters like Utamaro and Sharaku.