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Originally introduced from China, the Japanese plum (”~, ume; sometimes referred to as Japanese apricot) has played an important role in Japanese culture for many centuries. Its popularity was eventually surpassed by that of the cherry tree.

The plum is associated with the start of spring, because plum blossoms are some of the first blossoms to open during the year. In most areas of Japan, including Tokyo, they typically flower in February and March, although some varieties bloom even earlier. The event is celebrated with plum festivals (ume matsuri) in public parks, shrines and temples across the country.

Like cherry trees, plum trees come in many varieties, many of which were cultivated by humans over the centuries. Most plum blossoms have five petals and range in color from white to dark pink. Some varieties with more than five petals (yae-ume) and weeping branches (shidare-ume) have also been cultivated. Unlike cherry blossoms, plum blossoms have a strong, sweet fragrance.

The actual ume fruit is more sour than the Western plum or apricot and is usually processed in various ways before eaten. The most popular processed form is the umeboshi, a sour, pickled plum, which is usually enjoyed with cooked rice. Umeboshi come with one of the most typical Japanese flavors. Umeshu, a sweet alcoholic beverage made of plums, is also popular.

Some popular plum spots around Tokyo

Kairakuen

Mito Station, 80 minutes from Tokyo by JR Joban Line

Koishikawa Korakuen

Korakuen Station, Marunouchi Subway Line

Yushima Tenjin Shrine

Yushima Station, Chiyoda Subway Line

Hanegi Park

Umegaoka Station, Odakyu Line

Some popular plum spots around Kyoto

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

Short walk from Kitanohakubaicho Station

Umenomiya Taisha

15 minute walk from Matsuo Taisha Station on the Hankyu Arashiyama Line

Some popular plum spots around Osaka

Osaka Castle Park

Short walk from Osakajokoen Station

Osaka Expo '70 Park

10 minute walk from Bampakukinenkoen Station

Other famous plum spots

Nara Park

15-20 minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station

Naritasan Park

15-20 minute walk from JR Narita or Keisei Narita stations