“What secrets does this plum tree hold?” That is probably what people think when they first see Kameido Umeyashiki. It is more than just a building. It is a bridge connecting the past and present.
Kameido Umeyashiki began as a plum estate in the Edo period. This was between 1603 and 1868. The estate was known for its many plum trees. They had gorgeous blossoms. People traveled from everywhere to see the trees. They socialized with each other under the plum blossoms.
The fame of Kameido Umeyashiki grew. The renowned ukiyo-e painter Hiroshige Utagawa captured its beauty in art. Later, Vincent van Gogh copied this painting. He wanted to express his appreciation. This painting is known as Plum Park in Kameido. The most famous tree in Edo was located here. It was called the Sleeping Dragon Plum. Its blossoms were so white that they seemed to drive off the darkness. Branches traveled like a dragon. They covered an area of 50 square feet.
Centuries later, Kameido Umeyashiki continues as a gathering place. The newly constructed Kameido Umeyashiki keeps this tradition alive. It is a collaborative commercial center. It brings together the best foods, crafts, and culture of northern Koto City.
The low, white-walled building reminds people of olden-day architecture. Inside, you will find a tourist information center. There is a vast shopping area too. Shelves are lined with Kameido’s best products.
Try a Kachi-un manju. This traditional Japanese confection brings good luck. It is filled with daikon radish mochi. Kameido was once famed for its Kameido Daikon. This radish is now rare in Japan. The manju does not use white sugar. It brings luck associated with Kameido Katori Shrine.
Another recommendation is wisteria goods. These remind you of the wisteria blooms at Kameido Tenjin Shrine each spring.
One corner showcases Edo-kiriko ware. Edo-kiriko is traditional cut glass. Only a few ateliers remain. Most are in Eastern Tokyo. The craft is beloved in Koto culture. Window-shopping is free. You can also visit the Edo-kiriko Showroom. It features larger pieces such as vases. The collection rotates every season.
Beyond the Showroom is the Ukiyo-e Salon. It is a café and rest space. There are also meeting rooms and a small stage. Groups can rent and use these spaces. Sometimes, they host rakugo sessions. Rakugo is humorous storytelling. Crafting workshops also take place here.
No visit to Kameido Umeyashiki is complete without ice cream. Try the Denki Bran Ice. It is based on a brandy cocktail made in Asakusa. It contains 0.9% alcohol. Be careful if you are driving.
Kameido Umeyashiki is a destination. It offers the best of Kameido in one place. Today’s Umeyashiki is becoming a community symbol. It is as important as its namesake was 200 years ago. Take a moment to appreciate the plum blossoms. Think about the generations who have gathered here. Kameido Umeyashiki is waiting to be discovered.