Mifunegaoka Plum Grove is a beautiful plum-blossom destination at the eastern foot of Mount Mifune in Takeo City, Saga Prefecture. Covering an expansive area, the grove is home to approximately 10,000 plum trees, which burst into bloom as spring approaches. The spectacular sight is often described as “10,000 plum trees at a glance,” with blossoms spreading across the landscape like a vast carpet of flowers.
The grove is one of Takeo’s best-known seasonal attractions and draws many visitors during the flowering season. White and pale pink blossoms cover the grounds, creating a beautiful contrast with the surrounding greenery and the mountain scenery of Mount Mifune. The combination of historic plum trees and the natural landscape makes this a particularly appealing place to experience the arrival of spring in Japan.
The history of Mifunegaoka Plum Grove dates back to 1942, when approximately 10,000 plum trees were planted across an area of around 30,000 tsubo. The grove was established for people attending Riran Juku, an educational institution created at the time to promote friendship between Japan and Manchukuo.
The planting of so many plum trees created a distinctive landscape that has remained an important part of the area’s identity. Many of the trees planted during that period have survived, allowing visitors today to enjoy a place where history and nature come together.
The grove’s origins give it a significance beyond its role as a flower-viewing destination. Its landscape preserves a connection with the social and educational history of the early Showa period, while the mature trees provide a beautiful setting that continues to attract visitors every spring.
Plum blossoms usually reach their best viewing period from mid-February to early March. The grove covers approximately 165,000 square meters, and during the flowering season, white and soft pink blossoms spread across the extensive grounds.
On clear days, the contrast between the flowers and the blue sky is especially beautiful, making the grove a popular destination for photography. The view of the plum trees with Mount Mifune rising in the background creates a quintessentially Japanese spring landscape.
Walking through the grove allows visitors to enjoy the blossoms from different perspectives. The colors and atmosphere change with the light and weather, and the gentle fragrance of the flowers adds to the experience.
During the plum-blossom season, the Umebayashi Teahouse opens within the grove, providing visitors with a pleasant place to rest. Here, visitors can enjoy tea and light refreshments while looking out over the flowers.
One of the teahouse’s specialties is ume-no-hana mochi, or plum blossom rice cakes. These popular sweets have a gentle sweetness and are a favorite among visitors. Enjoying them during a break from walking through the grove is a lovely way to experience the local seasonal atmosphere.
The teahouse is an important part of the spring visit, combining the pleasure of flower viewing with the enjoyment of traditional Japanese refreshments.
The grove offers another seasonal attraction in addition to its spring blossoms. In late May, an event known as Ume-Land is held, and visitors may have the opportunity to harvest fresh plums themselves.
This hands-on experience allows visitors to enjoy the natural bounty of the season and learn about the fruit that develops after the flowers have fallen. It is a different way to appreciate the plum trees, moving from the beauty of the blossoms in early spring to the harvest of their fruit in early summer.
Ume-Land is popular with people who enjoy outdoor activities and seasonal agricultural experiences. The event offers a chance to connect with nature while experiencing another aspect of the grove’s traditional landscape.
One of the appealing features of Mifunegaoka Plum Grove is that admission is free. Visitors can enjoy the expansive plum landscape without paying an entrance fee, making it an easy destination to add to a sightseeing itinerary in Takeo.
The grove is also conveniently located for travelers using public transportation. From JR Takeo-Onsen Station, take a bus for approximately five minutes and get off at Takeo-Onsen Station-mae. The grove is then about a five-minute walk away.
By car, visitors can use the free municipal parking lot in front of the library. The grove is a convenient stop for travelers exploring the hot spring town and other attractions in the Takeo area.
Mifunegaoka Plum Grove is a place where visitors can appreciate both the natural beauty of spring and the history of the local landscape. Approximately 10,000 plum trees create an impressive floral display, while the grove’s origins in 1942 give it a distinctive historical background.
Whether strolling beneath the white and pale pink blossoms, enjoying plum blossom rice cakes at the teahouse, or taking part in the plum harvest event in late May, visitors can experience different aspects of the grove throughout the season.
For travelers visiting Takeo, Mifunegaoka Plum Grove is a rewarding place to enjoy the gentle atmosphere of early spring and discover one of Saga Prefecture’s memorable flower-viewing destinations.
10:00 - 16:00
No holidays during the period
Holding period
Mid-February to early March (Umebayashi teahouse opens in early February)
Free of charge
Takeo Onsen Station bus (5 min.), get off at Takeo Onsen Eki-mae bus stop, then walk 5 min.