The plum blossoms bloom before the cherry blossoms in Japan, from February to March, and are of similar beauty.
One of the best locations in Japan to enjoy the beauty of these flowers is at the Suzuka in the Mori Teien or Suzuka Forest Garden in the province of Mie.
While cherry blossoms seem to have greater significance in Japan, plum trees also play an important role in the country’s culture.
The plum blossoms – umê – are the first in the year to blossom in Japan and are worshiped by people for centuries as a symbol of early spring. Typically, umê flowers begin to bloom in mid-February and last until mid-March.
The Suzuka Forest Garden is home to about 200 weedworms and is one of the largest sites for this species of tree in Japan. The garden and trees are regularly tended by specialized gardeners. From white to vivid pink, plum blossoms of various hues blossom beautifully in the garden and create the picturesque scenery.
The festival is held annually. This year will be from February 23 to March 31. The best time for viewing the plum blossoms is from the beginning of March. There is also special lighting at night.
In the video below you can get an idea of how the lighting is:
Shidare Ume Matsuri 2019 (し だ れ 梅 ま つ り)
- Location: Suzuka Forest Garden (鈴鹿 の 森 庭園 Suzuka no Mori Teien)
- Date: February 23 to March 31, 2019 (the start date of night illumination will still be announced)
- Hours: 9am to 4pm (until 9pm in the lighting period)
- Entry: from 500 to 1,500 yen (the value varies depending on the flowering conditions of the plums)
- Site for information: akatsuka.gr.jp (tap to open, in Japanese)
- There is free parking (about 200 vacancies)
- See the location of Suzuka Forest Garden on the map below or touch here to open it:
Suzuka forest garden
151-2 Yamamotochō, Suzuka-shi, Mie-ken 519-0315
059-371-1777
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