Station #11: Mishima was a busy and prosperous town with a very famous Shinto shrine. Here sleepy travelers pass the torii gate and stone lanterns that mark the entrance to the Daimyojin Shrine, famous as the place Minamoto no Yoritomo (1147-1199) vowed to overthrow the corrupt Taira clan. He succeeded and set up a new government in Kamakura, thus becoming the first Kamakura shogun in 1185. Hiroshige studied many styles of painting and we can appreciate his expert skills in the way he captured the feeling of early morning fog. The Tokaido opened at 4:00 AM each morning and closed at dusk. Mishima was also famous for its shops selling all manner of straw goods (hats, sandals, baskets, raincoats) and other supplies for travelers.

Image Copyright: Minneapolis Institute of Art