Illustration of Steam Locomotive Tracks at Takanawa, from the series Famous Places in Tokyo (Tōkyō meishō Takanawa-jōki kikansha no zen zu) 1872

This woodblock print by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, titled "Illustration of Steam Locomotive Tracks at Takanawa, from the series Famous Places in Tokyo," depicts a steam locomotive traveling through the city of Tokyo in 1872. The image vividly portrays the excitement surrounding the arrival of modern technology in Japan during the Meiji Restoration, showcasing the steam train as a symbol of progress. The detailed illustration, printed in vibrant colors, includes a variety of figures observing the locomotive, further emphasizing the novelty of this transportation method in Japanese society. The print captures a pivotal moment in Japan's modernization, highlighting the blend of traditional and modern elements.