23  Shimada "Suruga Bank of the Oi River"


shimada
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The Oi River at Shimada was the most difficult place to cross in the whole of Suruga Province, as is evident from an old song that goes, "Even horses are able to pass the Hakone mountains, but they cannot cross the Oi River." River crossings were often suspended when there were downpours. Shimada is a post town on the east side (Suruga bank) of the Oi River. This picture presents a bird's-eye view of the bed of the Oi River. A feudal lord's procession, travelers and horses await their turn to cross the river, while some people are already on their way across. Viewing the scene from afar, the print captures the atmosphere of this busy river.




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