#Japan #Tokyo #Japanese Gardens #Edo Horticulture #Toshima Museum

Introduction

The Toshima City Local History Museum is gearing up to host an exciting new exhibition titled "Methods of Edo Horticulture: A Floral Journey Through Edo Folk". Running from April 18 to June 21, this exhibition dives deep into the unique gardening culture of the Edo period in Japan.

The Background of Edo Horticulture

The roots of Edo horticulture trace back to the early 17th century, during the Edo period, when the shogunate implemented the Sankin-kōtai system—a policy requiring regional daimyo, or feudal lords, to reside in Edo (modern-day Tokyo) periodically. This influx of high-ranking officials led to the establishment of numerous daimyo residences, each featuring their elaborate gardens. As a result, artisanal gardening techniques and diverse plant species from various regions converged in Edo, giving rise to a rich horticultural tradition.

Exhibition Highlights

At the exhibition, visitors will have the chance to explore around 100 rare horticultural artifacts collected over the past 40 years. Highlights include:
1. Ukiyo-e Print: An Edo-period ukiyo-e print titled Ryuukyu Kiku Hanazoroi Sugamo Tsutsumi Kiichi Yasaburo, showcasing the art of chrysanthemum cultivation in Sugamo.
2. Plant Illustrations: A collection of plant illustrations penned by the renowned gardener Ito Ibei, who specialized in cultivating the azalea, the city flower of Toshima.
3. Historical Items: The exhibit will also showcase a culturally significant pot from the mid-18th century that offers insights into the family-run gardening business of the Ito clan.

In addition, pots and containers from the Edo and Meiji periods used for plants will provide a tangible connection to the past.

Related Events

Various engaging activities accompany the exhibition, providing a comprehensive experience of Edo horticulture:

• - Craft Workshop: Participants can create original coasters using petals from the flowering Somei Yoshino cherry tree.
• - Slide Talk: Curators will share intriguing stories and insights about the exhibition, enhancing visitors' understanding of Edo horticulture.

Curatorial Insights

A museum curator shared, "Edo gardening culture evolved significantly around the mid-18th century. It transformed from 'in-ground gardening,' centered around cultivating plants in gardens and flower beds, to 'potted gardening' which allowed people from all walks of life to enjoy gardening. This democratization led to widespread cherry blossom viewing and made gardening accessible to many. We hope that visitors will experience the uniqueness and depth of Edo horticulture through our exhibition. We look forward to welcoming everyone!"

Exhibition Details

• - Dates: April 18 to June 21, 2023 (Closed on Mondays, May 4 open, May 7 closed)
• - Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
• - Location: Toshima City Local History Museum, 7th Floor, Toshima Industrial Promotion Plaza, 2-37-4 Nishi Ikebukuro
• - Related event information: Toshima City Website

This exhibition not only offers a glimpse into the intricate world of Edo horticulture but also invites visitors to engage actively in the time-honored tradition of gardening that still thrives in Tokyo today.