Shidoken, whose real name was Fukai Yoshisada, entered the Buddhist priesthood in Kyoto at the age of 12 but was later excommunicated because of his indulgence in pederasty and other eccentric behaviour. He moved to Edo where he became very well known for his unorthodox and entertaining way of telling historical tales as well as for his eccentricity. Hiraga Gennai (1726-79), the painter, botanist, scientist and writer, wrote a biography of Shidoken and another print artist Toyonobu designed a print depicting him. He died in 1765 at the age of 84.