Night View of the Matsuchiyama and Sam'ya Canal (Matsuchiyama San'yabori Yakei), No. 34 from One Hundred Famous Views of Edo

While some perceive this scene as sinister and strange, others see it as suggestive and romantic. In the dark background, at the foot of the hill Matsuchiyama and flanking the San'ya Canal and the pillars of the Imado Bridge, are the alluring lights of two restaurants. Stars glitter in the sky above and are reflected in the water below. In the foreground, a geisha follows the bright lantern of her attendant along the embankment. Hers is one of the few full portraits in the series. Perhaps returning from a banquet at one of the restaurants, she is an intriguing figure against the sultry backdrop.