【Spring 2025】"Fragant Plum Blossoms!" Plum Groves in Wakayama Prefecture Have Opened!

• Table of Contents
• Wakayama, the Spring Poem Woven by Plums
• Minabe Plum Grove
• Kishu Ishigami Tanabe Plum Grove
• Feel the Arrival of Spring With Your Loved Ones
• Photo and video Credits

Wakayama, the Spring Poem Woven by Plums

Wakayama Prefecture, the top producer of plums in Japan, is currently showcasing the charm of plums, known as a symbol of Japanese spring.

Every year, from early February to mid-March, tens of thousands of plum trees in the groves bloom all at once, reaching their peak in mid-February. The delicate and elegant flowers express the strength of nature, demonstrating vitality after enduring the harsh winter.

Historically, in Japanese culture, plums have been cherished as flowers symbolizing hope and perseverance from winter to spring. Their beauty has been depicted in numerous poems and paintings. The plum groves in Wakayama truly offer an inspiring landscape filled with the anticipation of a new season.

Below are some recommended spots where you can have a special experience.

Minabe Plum Grove

Known as "a sight of a million blossoms, a fragrance spreading for ten miles," the Minabe Plum Grove boasts one of the largest areas in Japan, with the entire region beautifully scented by plum blossoms. It is the most famous spot in Minabe.

Various events, such as mochi throwing (throwing mochi from a high place), are scheduled to be held on weekends and holidays in February, and there will be days when food trucks are available. You can enjoy various local specialties such as "Imo Mochi" and the famous "Kishu Nanko Plums"

Since there are many slopes, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes such as sneakers. Pets are also allowed.

During the peak bloom period, nearby parking lots may be full even in the morning, so it is recommended to visit as early as possible.

Information

【Event Dates】January 25, 2025 (Sat) to March 2, 2025 (Sun)
＊The opening period may change depending on the blooming conditions
【Operating Hours】8:00AM - 5:00PM
【Admission Fee】Adults (Highschool Students and above) 500-yen, Children (Elementary and Junior Highschool Students) 200-yen
【Address】Oshine, Minabe Town, Hidaka District, Wakayama Prefecture
【Parking (per day)】Cars: 500-yen 

For bus timetables and event schedules, please visit the website.

Kishu Ishigami Tanabe Plum Grove

Tanabe City is one of the representative production areas in Wakayama Prefecture, known for its plum production. The Kishu Ishigami Tanabe Plum Grove in Tanabe City is renowned for its "300,000 trees at a glance," with the scenic view of the plum orchards cascading down the mountains towards the Pacific Ocean being one of its attractions.

In addition to various events and and a sales and food corner selling local wild vegetables and handmade products, you can also enjoy special menu items such as plum udon and Mother Ishigami's special bento on-site.

There are about 20 different products from manufacturers in Tanabe City, so be sure to enjoy the unique flavors of the production area.

Mother Ishigami's Special Bento

Since there are no public transportation to the plum grove, it is recommended to use a private car or taxi.

Information

【 Event Dates 】February 8, 2025 (Sat) to March 2, 2025 (Sun)
【 Operating Hours 】9:00AM - 5:00PM
【 Admission Fee 】 Free
【 Address 】 5057-2 Kamihaya, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture
【 Parking (1-day) 】 
Plum Grove Rooftop Parking Lot: Approximately around 20-cars, Temporary Parking Lot: Approximately 50 cars (free)

HP is here

Bloom Information

The website provides blooming information such as "60% Bloom", "Full Bloom", and "Beginning to Fall." To see the most beautiful scenery, be sure to check the website before you visit.

Tanabe Plum Grove Flowering Information

Feel the Arrival of Spring With Your Loved Ones

In this article, we introduced two plum grove spots in Wakayama Prefecture.
Please come with your loved ones, feel the arrival of spring, and create unforgettable memories!

Photo and video Credits

1. Minabe Town Hall Ume Department
2. Tanabe Tourist Association