A Famous Landmark Of Tokyo From Samurai Era Has Returned After 150 Years.

"The Pine Tree Of The Moon" in front of Kaneiji-temple's Kiyomizudo-building was a well-known landmark located in Ueno, Tokyo during Samurai time. It was featured in a famous color woodblock-prints (Ukiyoe) series, "The 100 sights of note in Edo" (Edo is the previous name of Tokyo), by Hiroshige Utagawa.

The pine tree has a circular branch as you can see in the woodblock print shown in the upper left hand side photo. Actually it wasn't a natural shape. The circle was made by horticulture techniques. 

Unfortunately, the original tree was lost because of a typhoon in Meiji era (the early modern era after Samurai time ended). However, it recently reappeared again at the same spot as you can see in the photos above. Apparently it took 3 years to reconstruct the uniquely shaped pine tree.

Visitors can see the tree close from the deck of Kiyomizudo-building after they make a wish at the building. They can also enjoy the whole view of the tree from downstairs since the Kiyomizudo-building is on a high ground. It's fun to see the same view which was in the famous art pieces created hundreds years ago. 

In addition, there are hydrangeas on the slope of the high ground, so it is especially a nice place to visit in June.