The winter-blooming plum – or ume – flowers may not be as spectacular as cherry blossoms, which bloom about a month later and are the symbol of spring in Japan. But the white and pink ume blossoms are still a sight to behold. And they are beloved for their pleasant fragrance that fills the air from early February to mid-March.
Plum trees can, of course, be found all over the city, but the parks, shrines, temples and gardens listed here rank among the top ume-viewing spots, many of which have been popular since the 1600s. Some of these Tokyo attractions are even celebrating the occasion with dedicated plum blossom festivals filled with street food stalls and Japanese cultural performances.
RECOMMENDED: Winter cherry blossoms are also blooming around the same time in Tokyo and you can catch them here.