These days, "manga" is the face of Japanese culture. Translated into many languages, these comics are loved all over the world. This course traces the roots of Japanese manga.
(About 6 hours)
Located in Togano, Kyoto, this temple is famous for possessing Japan's oldest manga, the "Choju Jinbutsu Giga" ("The Scroll of Frolicking Animals and Humans"), created between the 12th and 13th centuries. The scroll drawing, which Tezuka Osama, creater of "Astro Boy," deemed a major influence on his work, features frogs, rabbits and other animals, frolicking about and engaged in tiny dramas. The work supposedly satirizes nobles, priests, and other persons of high class from the period. Kozann-ji Temple is also famous for the superb view from the veranda of Sekisui-in. Take in the vast mountains of Togano in one, sweeping gaze.
Details
Hours: 9:00 - 17:00
Address: 8 Toganoo-cho Umegahata Ukyo-ku, Kyoto
Access: 8-min walk from JR bus stop Togano
*Be sure to check the bus schedule for your return tip. Buses are infrequent.
Closed: Not closed on holidays
Fee: 600 yen (In autumn, a special ¥400 fee is required to enter the mountain area)
JR Bus Line Takao Keihoku: Togano bus stop to Shijo Omiya bus stop: About 40 minutes
Hankyu Line: From Shijo Omiya Station to Kawaramachi Station: About10 minutes
2. Daisho-do→15:30 - 16:30
Several centuries after the "The Scroll of Frolicking Animals and Humans", came Ukiyo-e. These images of urban culture and amusement were extremely popular among commoners in the Edo Period (1603-1868) and were often displayed in homes. In their time, ukiyo-e occupied a place similar to today's manga in that they were staples of popular culture. You can purchase ukiyo-e, Japanese books, and woodblock prints at "Daisho-do." Facing a row of temples, this shop carries high quality items but also sells comparatively affordable replicas. The store is also able to mail your purchases overseas.
Details
Hours: 11:00 - 20:00
Address: Nishiki-koji agaru Teramachi Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
Access: 5-min walk from Hankyu Kawaramachi Station
Closed: Wednesdays
<15-minute walk>
Opened in November 2006, this is Japan's largest manga museum. The "Manga Fair Corner" contains international comics and Japanese manga translated into many languages. Read "Astro Boy" in English, or "Dragon Ball" in Spanish. 990 Japanese works are translated together with 350 comics from America and the rest of the world. View valuable comics and feel free to read any of the hundreds of manga available.
Details
Hours: 10:00 - 20:00 (entry until 19:30)
Address: Oike agaru Karasuma-dori Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
Access: A short walk from Karasuma-Oike Station on the Karasuma Subway Line.
Closed: Wednesdays
Entrance fee: 500 yen
