The Greatest Locations in Japan for Plum Blossom Viewing

Why not try something different and enjoy the Japanese plum blossoms, or “ume” as the Japanese refer to them, while everyone else is admiring the cherry blossoms? These reddish-pink and white blossoms, which bloom from mid-February to early March, represent perseverance and rejuvenation and mark the arrival of spring. When you travel at this time of year, you can avoid the masses that congregate for the cherry blossom season.

The following are some of the top locations to view the plum blossoms:

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto

The Kitano Tenmangu shrine has been known for its plum blossoms for hundreds of years. There are over 50 varieties of and around 1,500 plum blossom trees planted in the area marking the beginning of spring in Kyoto.. Every year on February 25th, Kitano Tenmangu hosts the “Baikasai” or the Plum Blossom Festival.

The easiest way to get to Kitano Tenmangu is by bus. From Kyoto Station, take the Kyoto City bus 50 or 101 and get off at the Kitano Tenmangu-mae stop.

Kairakuen, Mito

Mito is famous for its plum blooms that there is a festival held  from late February to late March at the Kairakuen Garden to celebrate their arrival. People come from all over to see the beautiful landscape light up with pink and white flowers. There are thousands of plum trees in the Kairakuen Garden with over 100 varieties of plum.

To get to Mito, take the JR Joban Line from Shinagawa, Tokyo, or Ueno Station to Mito Station. From there, it’s a 30-minute walk along the edge of Lake Senba to Kairakuen Garden.

Yushima Tenjin Shrine, Tokyo

One of Tokyo’s most well-liked late-winter festivities, the 67th Yushima Tenjin Ume Matsuri (Plum Blossom Festival) is happening this year from February 8 to March 8. With its 300 plum blossom trees, the Yushima Tenjin Shrine garden is a peaceful haven in the hectic city. There are well-kept gardens, red bridges, and a general feeling of happiness.

The Yushima Tenjin shrine is next to Ueno Park and can be reached by foot in two minutes from Yushima Station’s Exit 3 on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line.

A key component of Japanese springtime are the exquisite plum blossom tree blossoms. As the flower of renewal, plum blossoms are cherished for their longevity and beauty in Japan, and seeing one will definitely pique your curiosity about the country!

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