A Sweet Legacy Takes Flight: Ohana’s ‘Kamonaka’ Celebrates Renewal with a Nod to Nature
The venerable Yanagawa Domain Lord Tachibana Residence Ohana, a site steeped in nearly 400 years of history and the only National Scenic Spot in Japan where one can stay overnight, marks its first anniversary since renovation with a delightful new offering: the “Kamonaka” monaka. This original confection, a collaboration with the esteemed wagashi maker Kinose, embodies the cherished wild ducks that have graced the Tachibana family’s estate for generations.
Announced on January 11, 2026, the “Kamonaka” is more than just a sweet; it’s a culinary narrative that intertwines the inn’s rich heritage with the natural beauty of its surroundings. The charming duck-shaped monaka celebrates the tranquil presence of wild ducks, a beloved winter spectacle in Ohana’s Japanese garden, Shotoen. These ducks, swimming gracefully and preening their feathers, were a source of delight even for the lords of yesteryear, embodying a scene of peace and serenity that has endured through centuries. As spring arrives, these ducks form pairs and journey north, symbolizing new beginnings and strong bonds.
Unwrapping the Story: Flavors of Tradition and Auspicious Beginnings
The “Kamonaka” features a crisply baked monaka shell encasing a rich azuki bean paste, subtly elevated by the refreshing sweetness of mikan (mandarin orange) peel. This unique filling incorporates mikan juice cultivated at Kikkouen, the Tachibana family’s own count’s farm, adding a gentle aroma and profound depth to its flavor. The plump, endearing duck shape itself is a revival, meticulously crafted from a plaster mold preserved since the time of Tachibana Kazuo, the 16th head of the family who founded the ryotei inn. His autobiography eloquently describes the scene:
“The morning water, holding an emerald light, shivers faintly. Many ducks cluster in the pond. Some swim gracefully with composed faces, others preen their feathers, dipping their necks into the water. Some are lost in contemplation on the water’s surface, others perch on garden stones, flapping their wings as if ready to take flight, or simply huddle… All appear utterly at ease, resting in their own ways. Quack, quack, quack. Peep, peep. Flap, flap… Listening closely, it’s quite lively. From the deserted garden, the ducks’ whispers, murmurs, and bustling voices can be heard.”
This passage captures the serene atmosphere that inspired the “Kamonaka,” a sweet designed to evoke feelings of comfort and joy.
A Symbol of Good Fortune: The “Engi-gashi” for Cherished Moments
Ducks, known for their habit of moving and staying together in pairs, have long been cherished as symbols of marital and family harmony. The sight of ducks forming pairs in Shotoen before their northern migration is especially revered as a symbol of “good縁を結ぶ” (tying good relationships or matchmaking). Thus, the “Kamonaka” emerges as an “Engi-gashi” – an auspicious confection perfectly suited for significant gifts and celebrations, reflecting the inn’s dedication to family happiness.
Product Details:
-
Contents: Monaka (Azuki Mikan Paste + Mikan Peel)
-
Price: 880 yen (tax included) for 2 pieces in a gift box
-
Manufacturer: Kinose
-
Sales Locations: Yanagawa Domain Lord Tachibana Residence Ohana (Gift Shop Ohana Koji, Accommodation Lobby), Kinose
The “Kamonaka” is not merely a taste sensation but a piece of living history, a charming emblem of good fortune, and a testament to the enduring beauty of Japanese tradition. As Ohana continues to innovate within its historic framework, such creations will undoubtedly introduce the nuanced elegance of Japanese culture, often characterized by its “kawaii” charm in unexpected forms, to an ever-wider global audience.
For more information, visit Ohana’s official website or the news page.
