Suidobashi, Surugadai (Suido Bridge and Surugadai)

Located on the south side of the Kanda River, the hill of Sundai, also known as Surugadai, was primarily a residential area for the samurai class and was renowned for its spectacular views of Mount Fuji. In the distance, several banners bearing Shoki designs and various streamers are visible around a samurai residence, raised in celebration of Tango no Sekku, the traditional Boys’ Festival held on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. While Mount Fuji appears small in the distance, a large koinobori (carp streamer) dominates the composition. The striking contrast in scale between the distant Mount Fuji and the prominently positioned carp streamer creates a particularly dynamic composition.
The use of bokashi shading on the carp’s body and twisted tail, along the riverbanks, in the middle of the river, and across the mountain range suggests that this is an early impression.