Plum blossoms are often seen as a sign that winter is over and spring has arrived, and one of the best places to enjoy the blooms in Gunma is at the Akima Plum Grove – it's regarded as one of the three great plum groves in the prefecture. Around 35,000 plum blossom trees can be found here, and when they are at their colorful best a festival is held which draws visitors from all across the Kanto region.
Along with the picturesque and fragrant blossoms to enjoy, the event also includes a variety of eats available for purchase, cultural performances such as taiko drumming demonstrations, mochi pounding competitions, and even a flea market.
Please note that the official event flyer gives a starting date for the festival, but the end date is simply listed as late March. Blossoms are likely to have passed their best by that stage.
Getting there
The Akima Plum Grove is located approximately 20 minutes driving time from the Matsuida-Myogi IC on the Joshin-Etsu Expressway.
Kim Bergström @kim.b
Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here. 🍵🌼🌸
