Plum Blossoms: The Overlooked Heralds of Spring

When winter’s chill lingers and the days slowly grow longer, one of Japan’s most enchanting sights begins to unfold—the blooming of ume (梅), or Japanese plum blossoms. Often mistaken for cherry blossoms, these delicate flowers are among the first signs of spring, filling parks, shrines, and temples with soft hues of white, pink, and red, accompanied by their sweet fragrance.

A Cultural Legacy: The Role of Plum Blossoms in Japan

Originally introduced from China, the Japanese plum—sometimes called the Japanese apricot—has been cherished in Japan for centuries. Before cherry blossoms took center stage, plum blossoms were the preferred symbol of spring’s arrival, admired by poets and artists alike. Their deep cultural significance is reflected in art, literature, and even traditional celebrations such as ume matsuri (plum festivals), which are held nationwide from mid-February to March.

The Deeper Meaning Behind Plum Blossoms

Beyond their visual appeal, plum blossoms carry profound symbolism. In Japan, they represent resilience, renewal, and hope—a testament to their ability to bloom despite the lingering cold of winter. Their longer blooming period (lasting nearly a month) makes them an excellent alternative to cherry blossoms, offering a quieter, less crowded experience for those looking to enjoy spring’s arrival at a slower pace.

Additionally, the ume fruit is highly valued in Japanese cuisine, most notably in umeboshi (pickled plums) and umeshu (plum wine). Unlike Western plums, ume fruit is intensely sour, requiring fermentation or pickling before consumption.

Plum vs. Cherry Blossoms: How to Tell the Difference

Both plum (ume) and cherry (sakura) trees belong to the Prunus genus in the rose family, making them closely related. However, there are a few key ways to distinguish them:

Blooming Season: Ume blossoms appear earlier, typically in February and March, while cherry blossoms peak in April.
Attachment to the Branch: Plum blossoms grow directly from the branch, while cherry blossoms emerge from small stalks.
Petal Shape: Plum petals are usually rounded, whereas cherry blossom petals have a distinct notch at the tip.
Fragrance: Unlike cherry blossoms, which have little to no scent, plum blossoms are strongly fragrant, with a sweet, fruity aroma.

Plum trees also have a distinctive, gracefully twisting form that adds to their charm. Unlike cherry blossoms, which last only 7 to 10 days, plum blossoms can be enjoyed for nearly a month, making them a wonderful alternative for those who want to appreciate Japan’s seasonal beauty at a slower pace.

A Kaleidoscope of Colors: Plum Blossom Varieties

There are over 300 varieties of plum blossoms, which can be classified into four main groups: Yabai (Wild Plums), Hibai (Red Plums), Bungo Plums, and Jitsubai (Fruit-bearing Plums). Each variety has unique characteristics, from delicate single-petaled flowers to large, fragrant double-petaled blossoms.

Plum blossoms range from pure white to deep crimson, with some varieties boasting double-petaled flowers (yae-ume) or gracefully cascading branches (shidare-ume). Some notable varieties include:

Dairi (内裏) – A classic white plum with 5 to 9 single petals, marking the end of winter.

Kasugano (春日野) – A full-petaled white plum with large blossoms, sometimes featuring pale pink variations.

Yae-kankō (八重寒紅) – A deep red, double-petaled flower with white spots on the inside. It has a strong fragrance and is named for its cold resistance.

Kusudama (楠玉) – A bright red variety with overlapping petals that form a round, ball-like shape and emit a gentle fragrance.

Plum Blossom Colors and Their Meaning

Plum blossoms come in various shades:

Honbeni (本紅) – Vivid, bright red petals.
Utsuribeni (移り紅) – Buds start white and gradually turn red.
Utsurishiro (移り白) – Buds start pink and bloom into white flowers.
Kuchibeni (口紅) – Petals have a red outline that fades to white towards the center.

Best Places to See Plum Blossoms in Japan

If you're looking to witness the beauty of plum blossoms firsthand, here are some of the best locations:

Kairaku-en (偕楽園), Ibaraki Prefecture

One of Japan’s "Three Great Gardens," Kairaku-en in Mito City boasts over 3,000 plum trees across 100 varieties. The garden holds a plum blossom festival from mid-February to late March. A special train runs from Mito Station to Kairaku-en Station during the season. The E657 series trains operating on the Joban Line feature a design inspired by Kairaku-en’s famous red and white plum blossoms.

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (北野天満宮), Kyoto

This famous Shinto shrine, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, features around 2,000 plum trees in its gardens. From January 25 to March 16, 2025, visitors can enjoy the plum garden, with a special tea ceremony (Baikasai) held on February 25.

Inabe Plum Grove (いなべ梅林), Mie Prefecture

Located at the base of the Suzuka Mountains, Inabe Plum Grove is one of Japan’s largest plum gardens, with 4,500 trees across 100 varieties blooming throughout March. The Inabe Plum Festival is held annually, offering local specialty products alongside breathtaking floral views.

Nearby, Suzuka Forest Garden (鈴鹿の森庭園) is renowned for its weeping plum trees (shidare-ume), which bloom in cascading waves of white, pink, and red. Some trees grow as tall as six meters, creating a stunning spectacle. Around late February to March, you can participate in the Suzuka Forest Garden Plum Blossom Festival. If you’re lucky enough to visit during peak season, you can also enjoy a mesmerizing nighttime light-up of the plum trees, extending until 9 PM.

Yagi's Weeping Plum (八木のしだれ梅), Hyogo Prefecture

This beautiful 70-year-old weeping plum tree, stands proudly at the Murakami Residence. This impressive tree spreads about 10 meters wide and towers over the house. (9) The garden is open to visitors during peak bloom, from late February to early March. Since it's a private home, visitors are kindly asked to be respectful. (10)

There is a parking lot nearby, and visitors can enjoy sweet sake and shop for souvenirs. A donation box is also available at the entrance to help maintain the plum tree, and any contributions are appreciated. (11)

Experience Plum Blossom Season in Japan

If you're planning a trip to Japan but want to avoid the peak-season crowds of cherry blossom season, February and March offer a fantastic opportunity to witness the country’s stunning plum blossoms in full bloom. With their vibrant colors, strong fragrance, and deep cultural significance, these delicate flowers serve as a reminder that even in the coldest months, the promise of spring is never far away.

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毎週火曜日に世界中を助ける。

Plum Blossoms: The Overlooked Heralds of Spring

A Cultural Legacy: The Role of Plum Blossoms in Japan

The Deeper Meaning Behind Plum Blossoms

Plum vs. Cherry Blossoms: How to Tell the Difference