Shinjuku Kabukicho
Shunga Exhibition(WA)

SHUNGA Glossary

Shunga Shunga & Erotic-Book Terms

しゅんが

Shunga is a genre of Japanese art that flourished during the Edo period.

Far more than images of intimacy, shunga is distinguished by its humor, imagination, and exceptional craftsmanship. It was also appreciated as a symbol of good fortune and protection, and was known as warai-e (“laughing pictures”).

Created by many of Japan’s greatest ukiyo-e artists, it is now recognized as an important part of Japan’s artistic and cultural heritage, offering insight into the history, culture, and lives of the people who created and enjoyed it.

Shunga brings a deeper understanding of ukiyo-e.

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