Anno Moyoco (b. 1971)
Sakuran: Blossoms Wild
Japan, 2012
Paperback book (manga); ink and color on paper
Copyright: Anno Moyoco / Cork Inc.
Anonymous gift
(TD2014-84-01)

A work of historical fiction set in the 19th century, Sakuran describes a young woman’s ascent through the hierarchy of the Yoshiwara brothel district. Beginning as a powerless yet obstinate kamuro (adolescent attendant), she matures into a beautiful woman and eventually rises to the rank of oiran, the most prestigious of all Yoshiwara courtesans.

Originally serialized by Kodansha in 2001–2003, Sakuran enjoyed enthusiastic acclaim from critics and the general public alike. In 2007, it was adapted into a live-action film directed by Ninagawa Mika (b. 1972) and starring Tsuchiya Anna (b. 1984). In 2012, the English edition of Sakuran was published by Vertical, Inc.