One of the first signs of spring being imminent are ume, or plum blossoms, beginning to bloom. If you're in Tokyo and would like to enjoy these seasonal beauties, Setagaya's Hanegi Park hosts an annual plum blossom festival. The park grounds boast a total of 650 plum trees for visitors to enjoy, comprising of approximately 230 red plum and 420 white plum varieties.
Along with the natural beauty of the trees in bloom, the event also has opportunities to partake in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, amazake tasting, and hands-on art and craft activities. Food booths are available on-site if you need to grab a bite to eat.
Outside the plum blossom season, the park has a number of cherry blossom trees and azalea bushes across the grounds, ensuring there's something beautiful to appreciate no matter when you plan your springtime visit.
Do note that as this is a seasonal festival, dates can be subject to slight change. Based on events in previous years, the dates are generally from the first week of February through to the first week of March.
