Station #51: In Edo society, the samurai class paid for their prestige by following a strict code of behavior, whereas commoners enjoyed more freedom. In this print, Hiroshige shows travelers leaving Iseya teahouse and he emphasizes the commoners' delight in travel. One fellow in high spirits gaily dances while the women travelers regard him at a safe distance. The restaurant in the background served fast food for travelers, a speciality of this area - tofu covered with bean paste and rice boiled with leafy vegetables.

Image Copyright: Minneapolis Institute of Art