Autumn in Arayu, Shoibara by Hasui Kawase 1935

Experience the timeless beauty of the Japanese countryside with "Autumn in Arayu, Shoibara" by Hasui Kawase, a masterful woodblock print originally created in 1935. Revered as one of the greatest shin-hanga ("new prints") artists of the 20th century, Kawase captures the essence of seasonal transformation in rural Japan. The work’s original Japanese title is 「塩原荒湯の秋」(Shiobara Arayu no Aki), evocative of a tranquil bathhouse district nestled among autumnal hills, where nature’s quiet symphony resonates.

This fine art print is meticulously reproduced by The Unique Maps Co. using the highest-quality giclée process, available on luxurious acid-free archival paper or artist’s premium cotton canvas. Select from a range of sizes to suit your décor needs—a fully customizable experience with optional framing, mounting, and even personalized engraving. Whether destined for a modern lounge, reading room, or an entryway, each print is made to order to ensure true gallery quality.

Hasui Kawase (1883–1957) played a pivotal role in revitalizing the art of Japanese woodblock printing with the shin-hanga movement. Known for his atmospheric landscapes and poetic use of light, Kawase's images invite serene contemplation and celebrate impermanence in nature. His signature works often depict tranquil rural scenes, snow-laden rooftops, and shimmering waterways, evoking deep feelings of nostalgia and peace.

This particular artwork stands out for its subtle depiction of autumn’s arrival at Shoibara's Arayu—a spirited spa town renowned for its healing waters. With masterful sensitivity, Kawase conjures the warmth of autumnal browns and golds in the foliage arching above placid water, its mirror surface tinged with gentle blues and shades of lustrous green. The carefully composed silhouettes of rustic buildings and delicate bridge in the composition exude tangible tranquility, blending artistry with emotional resonance.

Owning this print means bringing a moment of peaceful reflection and Japanese heritage into your space. The color harmony—an earthy spectrum accentuated by rich brown trees, subdued blues of the water, and deep greens dotting the woodland landscape—construct a visual poetry that only woodblock can achieve. Let your guests marvel at the absorbed details, from the play of sunlight to the gentle contours leading into distant hills, all inviting a slow and thoughtful appreciation.

"Autumn in Arayu, Shoibara" makes a thoughtful gift, perfect for special occasions such as birthdays, Christmas, Father’s or Mother’s Day, anniversaries, housewarmings, or milestones for those with an affinity for Japanese aesthetics, nature, and travel. Let this exquisite print infuse any space with autumn’s calm and the refined elegance of Hasui Kawase’s unparalleled vision.

If you're not sure what size to order, or you're looking for a custom order of some kind – a different size, a different colour, a special frame – then please contact me. I usually respond within a few minutes.

You can see an example of my fine art personalisation service in the fifth image. Zoom in and take a look. My personalised artwork is always very well received. Take a look at more examples of personalisation.

You can also choose to age your art print to make it look older. This is popular amongst my customers who want their artwork to look like an older, antique print. You can see an example of ageing in the sixth product image, or go ahead and check out lots of examples of other aged artwork.

The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45x60cm) version of this art print.

I can print and frame this beautiful piece of art at sizes up to 3 metres (10ft). If you are looking for a size or framing option that isn't available online, please get in touch.

This artwork is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. My standard frames come in six colours (black, dark brown, dark grey, antique gold, oak and white), and custom framing is available for an additional charge. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.