A stroll to admire plum blossoms in Kyoto: Explore three renowned plum blossom spots

When spring flowers bloom and geisha display their grace, the dance halls of Kyoto’s various hanamachi (entertainment districts) begin their relay performances of dazzling spring dances as soon as spring arrives, creating a splendid spectacle. Before the early spring cherry blossom season begins, there is also an elegant flowering season known as "plum blossom viewing." From late February to mid-March, plum blossom festivals are held across the region, with famous plum blossom spots showcasing vibrant blooms in reds and whites that are simply intoxicating.

Among Japan’s famed plum blossom viewing spots, Kyoto’s Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is the top recommendation. Its vast plum garden boasts approximately 2,000 plum trees of around 50 varieties, creating a spectacular sea of blossoms. The shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of scholarship in Japan, and it is said that plum blossoms were his favorite flower—their fresh and unpretentious charm is truly endearing. Next is the plum grove at Osaka Castle, another popular cherry blossom destination. In addition to its well-known cherry blossom avenue, Osaka Castle Park features a plum grove where thousands of plum trees bloom. Compared to the flamboyance of cherry blossoms, strolling through the plum grove feels especially refreshing and refined.

Another notable plum blossom spot is Kyoto’s Jonangu Shrine, famous for its Qu Shui Lian Yan (Banquet by the Winding Stream), inspired by the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion." Its "Rakusui-en" (Joyful Water Garden) is praised as Kyoto’s most beautiful garden stream. The garden is planted with hundreds of flowers and plants featured in "The Tale of Genji," among which the most unique are the weeping plum trees. Their branches spread out like fireworks, creating a truly beautiful sight. Additionally, taking an elegant stroll along the plum blossom path in Gion Shirakawa while wearing a kimono offers another level of charm and delight.

Phoenix Tours has launched a spring itinerary titled “Classic City Stroll: Elegant Kimono Experience & Plum Blossom Tour for 6 Days,” specially arranging for travelers to experience the thrill of dressing up in beautiful kimonos, exploring Kyoto and riding in rickshaws. The tour includes visits to multiple renowned plum blossom spots, paired with world heritage sites such as Byodo-in Temple in Uji, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Tenryu-ji Temple, Nijo Castle, and Nara’s Todai-ji Temple, making your ancient capital journey even more captivating. For more details on the itinerary, please contact Phoenix Tours at (02)2537-8111 or visit their website.

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Read more: Visitors stroll among blooming flowers at Narukami Shrine (Photo provided by Tripass Attractions)