Inquiries / Change reservationStep Into a Century of Sweetness in Kimono — A Timeless Journey at Asakusa Umezono
目次
- 1 The Origins — From a Temple Teahouse to a Renowned Sweet Shop
- 2 Literature and Sweets — A Historic Shop Immortalized in Writing
- 3 Inside the Shop — Where Time Flows Gently in Downtown Asakusa
- 4 Ordering and the Old-Fashioned Rhythm
- 5 Seasonal Specialties and Takeaway Options
- 6 A Flavorful Journey Across the Centuries
The Origins — From a Temple Teahouse to a Renowned Sweet Shop
The name “Umezono” originates from its founding location—Umezono-in, a sub-temple of Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. The temple grounds were once filled with plum trees, and a small teahouse began operating in a quiet corner of the garden. Over time, people naturally came to refer to the teahouse as “Umezono.”
Founded in 1854 (the first year of the Ansei era), during the final years of the Edo period, teahouses at the time played an important role in everyday life. They were places where ordinary people could rest, chat, and exchange stories of daily living. It was within this cultural backdrop that Umezono was born—gradually evolving from a humble teahouse into a shop devoted entirely to traditional Japanese sweets.
As the years passed and Tokyo transformed from Edo into a modern city, the streetscape and pace of life continued to change. Yet Umezono has remained steadfast in its commitment to handcrafted sweets and authentic flavors. The slow simmering of red beans, the delicate texture of shiratama dumplings, and the refreshing balance of kanten jelly have all been refined through generations of experience—resulting in flavors that feel both timeless and deeply comforting today.
Literature and Sweets — A Historic Shop Immortalized in Writing
This shop was already widely known from the Meiji period. The Japanese literary figure Nagai Kafū also mentioned Asakusa’s Ume-en in his essays and diaries. He touched upon that he was unable to enter due to the crowds.
From these description, we can see that the shop was already filled with customers at the time, to the point that one had to wait to be admitted. They also show that Ume-en was already very popular and attracted many customers. It had become an established stop for people visiting Asakusa.
Inside the Shop — Where Time Flows Gently in Downtown Asakusa
As you step inside, you are greeted by wooden tables and chairs marked with the passage of time, along with simple yet warmly inviting interiors. There is nothing overly ornate about the design, yet the atmosphere naturally encourages you to slow down, sit back, and savor a bowl of sweets at an unhurried pace.
On weekends and during peak travel seasons, it is common to wait in line for a seat. For a more relaxed experience, visiting outside of meal times or on weekdays is recommended, when you can better appreciate the quiet charm of this long-established shop.
Ordering and the Old-Fashioned Rhythm
Umezono has preserved its traditional ordering process: customers place their orders at the counter, payment is cash only, and after receiving a meal ticket, staff will guide them to their seats. This rhythm may feel slightly old-fashioned to first-time visitors, but it is precisely part of the shop’s charm—unhurried and unforced, allowing guests to settle in naturally.
Seasonal Specialties and Takeaway Options
In addition to classic offerings such as red bean soup, shiratama dumplings, and kanten jelly, the shop introduces seasonal sweets throughout the year. In autumn, treats made with pumpkin and chestnuts take center stage, while summer brings refreshing kanten desserts and shaved ice to help beat the heat. The counter also offers beautifully packaged wagashi for takeaway—perfect for bringing home and sharing a sweet taste of Asakusa with family and friends.
A Flavorful Journey Across the Centuries
The next time you find yourself strolling through the streets of Asakusa and spot the sign for “Umezono” in the distance, consider pausing for a moment. Order a traditional wagashi, pair it with a cup of matcha, and let the sweetness slowly unfold on your palate.
It is more than just a dessert—it is a flavorful journey spanning over 170 years, quietly reminding us amid the bustle of the city that some beautiful things are worth preserving with patience and savoring with care.
