Best Places to See Plum Blossoms in Tokyo: A Scenic Walking Guide Through Bunkyo

In this article, I’m excited to guide you on another plum blossom-themed walk through Tokyo—this time through the quiet, culture-rich streets of Bunkyo Ward. As one of Japan’s most cherished harbingers of spring, plum blossoms—or ume (梅)—begin blooming in Tokyo from early February to mid-March, painting the city in shades of pink, white, and crimson well before the cherry blossoms arrive.

More than just a visual delight, the arrival of ume also ushers in a variety of plum blossom festivals (ume matsuri), held at parks, shrines, and temples across the city. These seasonal celebrations offer not only floral beauty, but also a glimpse into Japan’s cultural traditions.

As a passionate flower lover, I recently embarked on a delightful plum blossom walk in Bunkyo, a district known for its serene gardens and rich historical ambiance. What makes this walk special is the chance to visit three charming ume festivals, all located within a pleasant walking distance from each other. It’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon—soaking in the scents and colors of early spring while exploring one of Tokyo’s most underrated neighborhoods.

Explore on Foot: Itinerary with Must-See Stops

This charming walking route begins at Korakuen Station (後楽園駅), easily accessible via the Marunouchi and Namboku subway lines, and concludes at the culturally rich Ueno Station. Along the way, you’ll discover three scenic plum blossom spots, each offering its own unique seasonal beauty. The route is flexible, allowing you to visit the sites in any order based on your preferences. While walking offers the most immersive experience, public transportation—such as metro or bus—can also be used to navigate between locations.

The most rewarding time to enjoy this walk is during the plum blossom season in February, when the trees burst into delicate pink and white blooms. For a lively cultural experience, consider visiting on a weekend to coincide with local matsuri (festivals), though weekdays offer a quieter, more peaceful stroll. To fully appreciate each stop, plan to spend at least four hours, allowing for a relaxed and enriching journey through Tokyo’s early spring charm.

Celebrate Plum Blossoms at Tokyo’s Ushi-Tenjin Shrine

Tucked away atop a gentle hill in Bunkyo City, just a short walk from Korakuen Station and Tokyo Dome, lies Ushi-Tenjin Kitano Jinja (牛天神北野神社) — a quiet, lesser-known gem that bursts into life each February with a beautiful Plum Blossom Festival (Ume Matsuri).

This charming Shinto shrine, intimate in scale yet rich in atmosphere, is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a revered poet and scholar who deeply admired plum blossoms (kōbai). The shrine honors both his legacy and the seasonal bloom with a heartfelt celebration each year. Adding to its uniqueness, Ushi-Tenjin is symbolically linked to oxen — you’ll find serene ox statues across the grounds, representing wisdom, strength, and protection.

One of the highlights of visiting during plum season is the stone staircase flanked by blooming plum trees, creating a tranquil, almost secret-garden-like ambiance. It’s a serene spot perfect for slow exploration, photography, and quiet reflection.

Locals often welcome visitors warmly during the festival, eager to share the history and meaning behind the traditions. You might even be treated to free amazake (sweet fermented rice drink) or ginger tea, especially on weekends.

Further details are available on the official Japanese website.

Discover Tokyo’s historic Koishikawa Korakuen Garden.

Blooming cherry tree garden

Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, the Koishikawa Korakuen Garden (小石川後楽園) stands as a timeless gem—one of the city’s oldest and most cherished landscape gardens, tracing its origins back to the early Edo period. Renowned for its classical Japanese design, the garden offers a tranquil retreat where nature, history, and artistry harmoniously intertwine.

A truly enchanting time to visit is during the Koishikawa Plum Festival, held each year as winter yields to spring. Here, in a quiet corner of the city, a grove of around 150 plum trees, representing 40 distinct varieties, bursts into bloom. From soft white petals to vivid shades of pink, the trees fill the air with their gentle, sweet fragrance—ushering in a season of renewal and beauty.

As you stroll through the garden’s winding paths, past serene ponds and gracefully arched bridges, you’ll find yourself immersed in a living painting, where every turn reveals another exquisite view. The delicate blossoms, set against the refined backdrop of traditional garden design, evoke a deep sense of peace and reflection.

On weekends during the festival, the garden becomes even more vibrant with cultural experiences. You may encounter a performance of sato kagura, a traditional form of sacred silent theater, or have the chance to participate in a brief calligraphy workshop, adding a personal brushstroke to your visit.

For more details and the latest updates, refer to the official Koishikawa Korakuen Garden website (available in Japanese).

Bunkyo Plum Blossom Festival at Yushima Tenmangu Shrine

Ushi-Tenjin Kitano Jinja

Steeped in history and reverence, Yushima Tenmangu Shrine is a sacred haven in the heart of Tokyo, devoted to Tenjin, the deity of learning and scholarship. Long beloved by students who come to pray for academic success, the shrine is equally renowned for its plum blossom beauty, a tradition that dates back to the Edo period.

Each spring, the shrine grounds come alive with the soft elegance of around 300 plum trees, with approximately 80% bearing pure white blossoms that exude a gentle, nostalgic fragrance. This year marks the 68th anniversary of the celebrated Bunkyo Plum Blossom Festival, an event that blends seasonal charm with cultural heritage.

On weekends throughout the festival, the shrine hosts a variety of traditional performances—graceful dances, thunderous taiko drumming, and the captivating stillness of sato-kagura (silent sacred theater). Visitors can also explore a lively fair offering regional delicacies, including artisanal umeshu (plum wine) and handcrafted umeboshi (pickled plums), perfect for savoring or taking home as a flavorful memory.

Whether you’re seeking good fortune for exams or simply longing to bask in the beauty of early spring, Yushima Tenmangu offers a timeless experience where spirituality and seasonal splendor blossom as one. Compared to the small ume matsuri at Ushi-Tenjin Kitano Jinja, the plum blossom festival at Yushima Tenmangu was much busier, with a lively and festive atmosphere.

Top Off Your Ueno Walk with a Peaceful Pause

Just a short stroll from Yushima Tenmangu Shrine, you’ll find yourself at the edge of Ueno Park, a beloved Tokyo destination known for its spacious paths, museums, and the serene waters of Shinobazu Pond. If you’re still in the mood to wander, it’s the perfect place to continue your leisurely exploration, soaking in the seasonal scenery and laid-back atmosphere.

As the afternoon draws on, consider winding down with a sweet pause at one of Ueno’s charming cafés. For an authentic taste of traditional Japanese desserts, don’t miss a visit to the Anmitsu Mihashi Ueno Main Shop (あんみつみはし上野本店). This iconic dessert spot is beloved for its beautifully crafted anmitsu—a classic treat featuring agar jelly, red bean paste, fruit, and syrup—making it a delightful way to end your day on a refreshingly sweet note.

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About Me

Hi, I’m Mahad Hasan, welcome to my little corner of the internet! I’m a blogger passionate about sharing travel tips. On this blog, I share my personal experiences, tips, and stories.