Introducing Ukiyo-e prints that highlight Kitagawa Utamaro's keen eye and skill in portraying women

NHK's educational program "Ukiyo-e EDO-LIFE" features ukiyo-e prints linked to the story every week, in order to help viewers enjoy the station's historical drama "UNBOUND (Berabou)" (General TV, Sundays at 8pm and others) more deeply. On August 29th, "UNBOUND's World: Utamaro's Beautiful Women's Fashion Show?" will be rebroadcast on BS Premium 4K from 6pm and on NHK Educational TV from 11:50pm.

This time we will be introducing "Evening Coolness on the Okawa Riverbank," a piece that shows off Kitagawa Utamaro's keen eye and skill in portraying women. During the Edo period, fireworks were set off every summer night. The area around Ryogoku Bridge over the Sumida River was crowded with spectators. Watching the fireworks was a special time when women could enjoy the nightlife with confidence. They would dress up in all their finery and style.

The kimonos, obi, and even the accessories they wear are all coordinated to incorporate the latest trends. Some even wear sexy outfits that are meant to seduce men. Their fashions reveal their personalities.

"The UNBOUND World of Utamaro: A Fashion Show of Beautiful Women?" premiered on August 3, 2020.