Woodcarving as an art form is now much prized in Japan but originally it was considered to be "throw-away" art. For many years, true art was painting with ink on silk, a technique brought to Japan from China at some point before the 15th century. Ironically, as the technique of woodblock printing developed into a highly stylized form, the Japanese achieved the aesthetic for which their art is most famous.

This design integrates a yin yang of water and sky, creating an image of two of the most powerful and dynamic forces of nature achieving a moment of perfect balance. In Asian art, the yin yang symbolizes the natural balance of the masculine and feminine forces.

The distinctive volcanic cone shape of Mount Fuji, seen here in the background, is regarded by the Japanese as symbolic of the sacred journey of the spirit, where, through perseverance and effort, the pilgrim climbs the mountain to enter the realm of pure sky and air.