Tokyo is renowned for its cherry blossom spots, including parks, rivers, and festivals. However, just before the cherry blossoms begin, there is a chance to enjoy another floral event – the plum blossom. Many parks in Tokyo even host special events in this regard. Here is a list of 8 plum festivals in Tokyo.
Yakushiike Park
The Yakushiike Park Plum Festival is an annual celebration in Machida City, Tokyo, Japan, held during the early spring season to showcase the blooming plum blossoms in Yakushiike Park. The festival offers a serene experience as visitors stroll through the park’s plum orchard, featuring various plum tree species in shades of pink, white, and red. Highlights include a traditional Japanese tea ceremony amidst the blossoms, live performances, and stalls with local crafts and plum-related products. Families enjoy child-friendly activities, and as the sun sets, the park is illuminated, creating a magical ambiance. The festival fosters a sense of community, providing a cultural and natural escape for locals and tourists alike.
Address: 3270 Nozutamachi, Machida, Tokyo 195-0063
Hanegi Park
Hanegi Park, situated on a small hill, transformed into one of Tokyo’s premier plum blossom viewing spots through a unique history. In 1962, 55 plum trees were planted on the southern slope by individuals elected to the Setagaya Ward Assembly, marking the beginning of this floral haven. The green landscape expanded with subsequent plantings, commemorating Tokyo’s 100th anniversary in 1971 and the 40th anniversary of Setagaya’s ward system. Today, the park boasts 650 trees, a blend of 270 red and 380 white plum varieties. Recognized for its stunning blossoms, the park hosts the Setagaya Plum Blossom Festival, drawing crowds on weekends. Festival-goers indulge in plum-themed treats like madeleines and jelly, while performances add to the vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for floral enthusiasts and those seeking a delightful weekend experience.
Address: 4 Chome-38-52 Daita, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0033
Yushima Tenjin Shrine
Yushima Tenjin Shrine Plum Festival, an annual celebration in Tokyo, showcases vibrant plum blossoms. Visitors enjoy strolling amid hundreds of blooming trees, partake in traditional tea ceremonies, and savor plum-flavored treats. The festival, featuring cultural activities and lively performances, attracts a diverse crowd seeking a serene escape in the heart of Tokyo. Check the official shrine website for the latest information.
Address: 3 Chome-30-1 Yushima, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 113-0034
Kameido Tenjin Shrine
Every early spring, the delightful Kameido Tenjin Shrine hosts an annual festival, celebrating the presence of 300 plum trees within its grounds. Among them, 50 koubai red blossoms and 150 hakubai white plum trees create a picturesque display. Notably, the goken-no-ume tree stands out, bearing both red and white plums on a single tree. The blossoms typically peak between mid-February and early March, with a range of events scheduled throughout the festival, primarily on weekends. For the latest information, please visit the official website of the shrine.
Address: 3 Chome-6-1 Kameido, Koto City, Tokyo 136-0071
Taniho Tenmangu Shrine
The Taniho Tenmangu Shrine Plum Festival is on February 24-25, featuring a grove with 350 plum trees. This shrine, a major Tenjin in Kanto, is popular for graduation photos. The plum grove served lords during the Edo period and hosted Japan’s first “automobile excursion” luncheon in 1908. Discover the rich history and beauty of the plum blossoms at this venerable shrine.
Address: 5209 Yaho, Kunitachi, Tokyo 186-0011
Fuchu Kyodo no Mori Plum Festival
Explore Fuchu Kyodo no Mori with 1,300 plum trees of 120 varieties. On February 25-26 and March 4-5, enjoy evening illuminations from 5 pm to 8 pm, accompanied by around 180 lights. Free entry to the planetarium is available during these nights. The first 20 visitors to the tea house can buy an exclusive tea set (¥500) with a delightful ume plum confectionery. If you miss out, you can still savor a cup of matcha for ¥400.
Address: 5 Chome-5 Yazakicho, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-0025
Keio Mogusaen
Explore Keiō Mogusaen in Tokyo, a historic garden dating to the 18th century, with 500 plum trees on a hilltop. Enjoy panoramic views and attend a vibrant plum blossom festival from February to March. Admission is 500 JPY for adults and 100 JPY for children, offering a delightful nature escape.
Address: 560 Mogusa, Hino, Tokyo 191-0033
Takao Umekyo
Takao Umekyo hosts the Plum Festival, featuring 10,000 blooming plum trees along Kobutoke River and Old Koshu Kaido Road. Explore four plum groves with shops and food stalls, join a stamp hike, and enjoy Yosakoi dance. The location, just a 10-minute walk from Takao station, is a must-visit.
Address: 313 Uratakaomachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 193-0841
