In the 17th - 19th centuries old Tokyo was likened to Venice with its myriad of canals. One of the most sophisticated ways of spending an evening was to take a boat up the Sumida River to the Yoshiwara, the famed courtesan district of old Tokyo, or Edo as it was known.

In 2008 a long-lost scroll by Hokusai was discovered in Paris. It depicts both banks of the Sumida River in Tokyo and the journey by boat to the Yoshiwara Courtesan District. The painted scroll is Hokusai’s largest work and was purchased at a world record price by the new Sumida Hokusai Museum in 2016. Painted in 1805, it works almost like a virtual tour of the journey to the Yoshiwara.

Join John as he uses this beautiful scroll to guide you on a day trip through the canals and rivers of old Tokyo mentioning along the way the fascinating history of Tokyo, when it was the Shogun’s Capital Edo. We will also learn about the difficult history of the Courtesan district, in terms of human rights, and sheer scale of its economy, but also about the precious culture which was preserved by the courtesans. John's talk may be useful in planning a self-guided stroll along the Sumida River with an eye for history and interesting cultural sites to visit.

Attendance is free but tips are appreciated.

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