Early spring in Kyoto, full of charm- plum blossoms perfect for gorgeous photos

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From January to early March in Kyoto, there are relatively few tourists. According to locals, this is the best season to visit popular tourist spots in peace. Especially from February to March, you can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms together with the sweet scent of it.

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"Plum blossoms" -the origin of Japanese cherry blossom viewing

The origin of cherry blossom viewing dates back to the Nara period. It began long ago when aristocrats enjoyed appreciating plums. Many varieties of plums have been bred and improved since they were introduced from China, and there are currently more than 300 varieties. Most of them become in full bloom all over Kyoto from early February to late March.

KITANO TENMANGU SHRINE, Kyoto's most famous place for plum blossoms

The "Flower Garden," originally created during the Edo period, has been revived for the first time in about 150 years and has become a hot topic. Approximately 1,500 plum trees of about 50 different varieties bloom one after another within the spacious grounds, creating a gorgeous sight that looks like it's from another world. From the observation deck, you can see colorful white and red plum blossoms spreading out below you, and spend a blissful time surrounded by their breathtaking beauty and sweet scent.

ZUISHIN-IN TEMPLE, associated with the unparalleled beauty Ono no Komachi

Ono no Komachi was a female poet from the Heian period. The richly colored fusuma paintings that present her life are a popular spot for wedding photos. The plum grove, with approximately 230 pale pink plum trees, is well known as late-blooming trees in Kyoto, and entertains many people until March.

DAIKAKUJI TEMPLE, with the scenery reminiscent of the Edo period

DAIKAKUJI in Arashiyama area, is a historic temple related with the Emperor. Without any man-made structures in sight, it is also famous as a filming location for historical dramas. The precincts remain in the style of the Edo period. A plum tree stands out against the white sand, creating an elegant beauty, and the plum grove blending into the nature of the Satoyama gives off a somewhat nostalgic scenery.

Plum blossoms in Kyoto with the sweet scent

Plum blossoms endure the freezing cold Kyoto and announces the arrival of spring. The sweet scent and dainty flowers are its most attractive features. February to early March in Kyoto is less crowded than the cherry blossom season, where you can enjoy sightseeing in peace. Why not come a little earlier and enjoy the plum blossoms?

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Kyoto Brighton Hotel is located in an area with excellent access to many World Heritage sites, such as Nijo Castle and Ginkaku-ji Silver Pavilion. There are many shops nearby selling Japanese ingredients, where you can enjoy buying soy sauce, miso, etc. It is about 5min walk to the Kyoto Imperial Palace, recommended for morning walks and running courses. In addition, the concierge knows well about Kyoto, where you can feel free to ask about sightseeing, restaurants, traditional crafts, etc. During cherry blossoms and autumn foliage seasons, there are special tours available for private viewing. The average size of guest rooms is 42 square meters, spacious enough to accommodate large suitcases, and equipped with comfortable sofas. There are a variety of restaurants in the hotel, including western food, teppanyaki (wagyu), traditional Japanese, Chinese, and a bar lounge. This is a hotel where you can arrange everything about Kyoto, including gourmet food and Kyoto-like experiences.

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