Enjoying Japan’s Plum Blossoms Before the Cherry Blossoms
When people think of a landscape that represents Japan, many imagine cherry blossoms in full bloom in spring. The soft-colored flowers blooming all at once are widely known around the world as a symbol of Japan.
However, there is another flower that quietly announces the arrival of spring. That flower is the plum blossom. Plum blossoms typically bloom from late January to early March, with February being the peak season in many regions. Because they bloom while winter’s cold still lingers, plum blossoms have long been appreciated as flowers that signal the coming of spring.
Plum Blossom Spots Across Japan
Plum blossoms can be enjoyed throughout Japan, each region offering a slightly different atmosphere. Even in urban areas, it is often possible to experience seasonal plum blossoms just a short distance from the city center—one of the unique charms of Japan.
Below are well-known plum blossom spots located in prefectures where Ikedaya has physical stores:
- Tokyo: Yushima Tenjin Shrine
- Yokohama: Negishi Forest Park
- Shizuoka: Kunozan Toshogu Shrine
- Osaka: Osaka Castle Park
- Fukuoka: Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine
Most of these places reach their best viewing period around February and are easy to visit during sightseeing.
A Personal Recommendation: Weeping Plum Blossoms at Tatsuo Shrine in Kakegawa
One place I would personally recommend is Tatsuo Shrine, located in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture. The shrine is known for its weeping plum trees, whose branches gracefully hang down as they bloom.
It is about a 10-minute taxi ride from Kakegawa Station on the Tokaido Shinkansen line. While it may not be well known among international travelers, this also means it remains a quiet place where visitors can enjoy plum blossoms in a calm and relaxed setting.
If you have extra time, it is also possible to stop by nearby Kakegawa Castle. The castle is small and not especially famous, but it is a pleasant spot for those who want to take their time exploring Japanese historical architecture and gardens.
Kakegawa Castle (Official site)
Plum Blossom Motifs in Koshu Inden
Plum blossom designs can also be found in Koshu Inden, one of Japan’s traditional crafts.
Because plum blossoms bloom in the cold winter and usher in spring, they are considered auspicious motifs associated with good fortune and longevity. The five petals are said to represent “fortune, rank, longevity, joy, and wealth.” In fact, plum blossoms were cherished by the Japanese long before cherry blossoms became popular.
At present, plum-patterned Koshu Inden items are not available on ikedaya-global. However, they are sold at Ikedaya’s physical stores in Japan. If you have the opportunity to visit Japan, we hope you will stop by one of our stores and experience them in person.
