Traditionally, these Ukiyo-e wood block prints were produced to advertise kabuki theatre actors or to immortalize important events, such as earthquakes or tsunamis. These prints were mass-produced and so common at one time that they were even used as packing material in exported crates. This is how they found their way into Europe, providing inspiration to famous artists such as Van Gogh and many others. Today, the art form lives again - as these timeless prints can be found at Hara Shobo, with surprisingly affordable prices.