A guided tour of:  

Beneath the Great Wave: Hokusai and Hiroshige on Thursday 12th November 2026.

The Whitworth Gallery,

The University of Manchester, 

Oxford Road, 

Manchester, 

M15 6 ER

Beneath the Great Wave brings together exceptional ukiyo-e prints from Edo-period Japan. Ukiyo-e — meaning “pictures of the floating world” — were colourful woodblock prints that captured scenes of travel, nature and popular culture during a time of peace and creativity in Japan’s history.  From towering waves and rushing waterfalls to quiet roads and distant mountains, these works reveal moments of beauty, drama and movement that still feel strikingly modern today. At the heart of the exhibition is Under the Wave off Kanagawa — widely known as The Great Wave — one of the most recognisable images in the world. More than a masterpiece of Japanese art, it’s become a global icon, continuing to influence fashion, design, film and popular culture across the world.  

Alongside this celebrated image, the exhibition explores the wider world of ukiyo-e, tracing stories of artistic ambition and innovation against the backdrop of a rapidly changing Edo Japan.  

We will make our own way to the Whitworth.  The cost of the tour is £5.00 per person, payable in cash on the day.  We will meet our guide at 11.30 am.  Refreshments are not provided but there is a cafe on site, (booking advisable).

If you would like a place on this trip please contact the Tour Leader Jane Hind by email or phone.

Email:  janehind@gmail.com.               Mobile : 07741 459186

Please inform Jane if you have any needs that have to be taken into account before going on the trip.   Keep a note of her phone number in case of difficulties whilst on the trip.  Suitable footwear and clothing should be worn.