Exploring Japanese Landmarks in Nishiki-e and Photographs

Mukojima

Mukojima Hyakkaen

A garden created in 1804 when the antiques dealer Sahara Kiku'u gathered ume plum, susuki silver grass and other ancient Japanese trees and plants and built it in the remains of the residence of the Taga Clan, who were vassals of the Shogun. The name means Mukojima garden of all flowers and is said to have been given in the spirit of the quote by the late Edo Period artist Sakai Hoitsu, who said "the ume plum tree is the foremost of all flowers". Originally, 360 ume plum trees were the main feature, so it was called Shinumeyashiki (new Umeyashiki) in comparison to Kameido's Umeyashi. At present it is a garden run by the prefecture and is designated as a national historic relic and scenic spot.

Nishiki-e and Paintings

向しま花屋敷七草

東京名所三十六戯撰

Photos

東京風景

Akiba Daigongen no Yashiro Shrine

Said to have been constructed in 1289 as an enshrinement of the Akiba-jinya Shrine from Shizuoka Prefecture, which enshrines the god of fire prevention. During the Edo Period it was worshipped by the inner palace of Edo Castle and by various Daimyo (feudal lords). Famous as Edo's number one spot for viewing the changing autumn leaves. There were also a large number restaurants before the gate, making it popular with visiting worshippers.