With their red, white, and soft pink petals and a faint, unmistakable fragrance, plum blossoms quietly announce the approach of spring in Fukuoka. Known locally as ume, these flowers are designated as the prefectural flower and have been cherished for centuries. In a typical year, blossoms begin to open around Risshun, the traditional start of spring in early February. This year, with temperatures forecast to be near or slightly above seasonal averages, some spots may bloom earlier than usual.
Plum blossoms are often considered most beautiful when they are about half to seventy percent in bloom. Plump buds just beginning to open have their own charm, and in the days before full bloom, the colors tend to appear richer and more vivid. Visit at different times and the same trees can feel surprisingly different each time.
In this guide, Fukuoka Now introduces 18 places to enjoy plum blossoms in and around Fukuoka. These range from long-loved landmarks such as Maizuru Park’s Plum Garden and Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine to quieter, lesser-known local spots. Bloom timing, event schedules, and opening days vary each year, so it is best to check official websites for the latest information before heading out.
▷Fukuoka Plum Blossom Guide 2026 Google Map
Fukuoka Now’s tip
Early morning is an ideal time to visit. Plum blossoms glow softly in the first light of day, and their delicate fragrance carries clearly in the crisp air. With fewer visitors around, it is a peaceful way to experience the subtle shift from winter to spring.
Plum Blossom Viewing Spots in Fukuoka
Fukuoka City (3)
Dazaifu City (1)
Kurume City (3)
Kitakyushu City (3)
Iizuka City (1)
Chikujo Town (1)
Nakama City (1)
Chikugo City (1)
Yame City (1)
Yanagawa City (1)
Omuta City (1)
Fukuoka City
Maizuru Park
Maizuru Park, an oasis of tranquility nestled around the historic remnants of Fukuoka Castle, boasts a stunning plum grove with approximately 250 diverse varieties of plum trees. As early February, these trees burst into a vibrant display of blossoms, filling the air with their sweet, enchanting fragrance. The park becomes a bustling hub for enthusiasts indulging in leisurely strolls and photography. Commencing in early February, especially on bright, sunny days, the park offers an added charm with benches adorned with red mats, inviting visitors to sit back and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the blossoms. The annual Plum Festival will be held on Saturday, February 14, and Sunday, February 15. The event will feature food trucks, market stalls.
• Best time to view: mid-Feb. ~ late-Feb.
• Approx. 250 trees / 35 species (plum blossom list)
• Kyushu Live – Plum Blossoms & Flea Market in Fukuoka (Feb. 20, 2022)
Maizuru Park
• Address: 1-4 Jonai, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
• Access: 8 min. on foot from Fukuoka City Subway Akasaka or Ohori Koen Sta.
• Official website: https://www.instagram.com/maidurupark/
Ohori Park Japanese Garden
Next to Ohori Park, a beloved green refuge for Fukuoka residents, the Ohori Park Japanese Garden offers a calm, carefully composed setting for plum blossom viewing. Here, plum trees bearing soft pink and deep crimson flowers add subtle color to the garden’s refined landscape. Set against dark green pines and raked white gravel, the blossoms feel especially striking, offering a quiet sense of the season’s change despite the garden’s central city location.
At certain times of day, artificial mist drifts gently across the garden, transforming the scenery as light and wind shift. The effect adds a fleeting, almost dreamlike quality to the experience, encouraging visitors to slow down and take in the details.
The adjoining Tea Ceremony House hosts matcha gatherings twice a month, making it a pleasant stop during a garden stroll. In February 2026, matcha will be served on February 3 and 17 from 12:00. The fee is ¥1,000, including a traditional sweet, and sessions run until supplies are gone.
• Best time to view: early-Feb. ~ early-Mar.
• Approx. five trees
Ohori Park Japanese Garden
• Address: 1 Ohorikoen, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
• Access: 10 min. on foot from Fukuoka City Subway Ohori Koen Sta.
• Official website: https://ohoriteien.jp/
• Open: 9:00~17:00 (last entry 16:45)
• Closed: Mon. (open if Mon. is a hol. and closed next day)
• Entry fee: ¥250 (under 15 y.o. ¥120)
Kagami Tenmangu Shrine
Nestled within the confines of Hakata Riverain lies Kagami Tenmangu Shrine, a quaint sanctuary that harbors a unique pair of red and white plum trees. These trees hold a special significance, tracing their roots back to Tenjin-sama, the revered deity of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. Despite its modest size, Kagami Tenmangu is notable for enshrining a mirror, echoing its name which means ‘mirror.’ A cherished legend recounts how Sugawara no Michizane, upon his arrival in Hakata, gazed upon his weary reflection in this very mirror. Symbolizing a deep connection, this harmonious pair of plum trees was a gracious gift bestowed by Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.
• Best time to view: early-Feb. ~ late-Feb.
• Approx. 2 trees
Kagami Tenmangu Shrine
• Address: 3 Shimokawabata-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• Access: short walk from Fukuoka City Subway Nakasu Kawabata Sta.
• Official website: https://yokanavi.com/spot/26954/
Dazaifu City
Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine
Nationally known as one of Japan’s premier plum blossom destinations, Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is home to around 6,000 plum trees representing some 200 varieties. White and red blossoms spread across the shrine grounds, creating a vivid early-spring landscape.
Among them is the sacred Tobiume, or “Flying Plum Tree,” said to have flown overnight from Kyoto to Dazaifu out of devotion to Sugawara no Michizane, the shrine’s enshrined deity. Michizane’s deep affection for plum blossoms is also reflected in the shrine’s crest, which features a stylized plum motif. The Tobiume remains one of the site’s most symbolic and visited trees, and is well worth seeking out during a visit.
Leading to the shrine, the lively approach is lined with teahouses and souvenir shops, making it easy to pause for umegae mochi, the local specialty traditionally enjoyed while strolling the grounds.
Due to major restoration work on the main hall, a temporary worship hall has been installed and will remain open to visitors until early May 2026.
• Best time to view: early-Feb. ~ early-Mar.
• Approx. 6,000 trees
Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine
• Address: 4-7-1 Saifu, Dazaifu City, Fukuoka
• Access: Access: 5 min. on foot from Nishitetsu Dazaifu Sta.
• Official website: https://www.dazaifutenmangu.or.jp/
Kurume City
Ishibashi Cultural Center
Within the expansive embrace of a cultural complex, a sanctuary for arts and knowledge, lies a captivating plum orchard and a magnificent avenue adorned with plum trees. This tranquil enclave is graced with the ‘Harubai’ plum trees, a cherished gift from Hefei, the sister city of Kurume in China. About 140 plum trees, resplendent in hues of red and white, dot this orchard, each standing as a testament to the flourishing friendship and cultural ties between these sister cities. The orchard’s vibrant bloom is not just a visual delight but a symbol of the harmonious fusion of nature and culture, making this spot a unique and enchanting destination. The Plum Festival will be held from February 21 to March 8, featuring plum-themed desserts, concerts, and flower workshops.
• Best time to view: mid-Feb. ~ early-Mar.
• Approx. 140 trees
Ishibashi Cultural Center
• Address: 1015 Nonaka-machi, Kurume City, Fukuoka
• Access: take Nishitetsu Bus from Nishitetsu Kurume Sta, get off at Bunka Center-mae bus stop.
• Official website: https://ishibashi-bunka.jp/hanameguri/
Miyanojin Shrine
Miyanojin, steeped in historical lore, is said to have derived its name when a prince established his camp here during the pivotal ‘Battle of Ohara (Battle of Chikugo River)’ in 1359. Among the echoes of this storied past stands the ‘Shogun Ume,’ a venerable plum tree believed to have been planted during the battle. Recognized as a natural monument by Kurume City, this tree continues to blossom majestically, counted among the largest plum trees within the city. Each year, the Shogun Ume tree’s spectacular bloom is celebrated on March 20th with the ‘Shogun Ume Matsuri.’ This festival is a cultural tapestry, featuring children’s sumo wrestling and a solemn memorial service to honor the fallen, connecting the present with the rich tapestry of history.
• Best time to view: mid-Feb. ~ mid-Mar. (Shogun Ume: mid-Mar.)
• Approx. 100 trees and 7 trees shogun ume
Miyanojin Shrine
• Address: 5-12-1 Miyanojin, Kurume City, Fukuoka
• Access: 5 min. on foot from Nishitetsu Miyanojin Sta.
• Official website: https://welcome-kurume.com/events/detail/
Bairinji Temple Garden
Bairinji Temple is located on a hill by the Chikugo River, just behind JR Kurume Station. A corner along the Chikugo River is open to the public as a park where people can gather and enjoy the blooming of 500 plum trees of about 30 varieties, including red, white, and Garyubai plum.
Best time to view: mid-Feb. ~ early-Mar.
Approx. 500 trees
Bairinji Temple Garden
• Address: 209-24 Kyo-machi, Kurume City, Fukuoka
• Access: 5 min. on foot from JR Kurume Sta.
• Official website: https://welcome-kurume.com/spots/detail/
Kitakyushu City
Mitsutake Bairin Park
Mitsutake Bairin Park, now a cherished public space, has its origins in a heartfelt gesture by local residents who planted plum trees in 1928 to commemorate the marriage of Emperor Showa. Officially opened as a park in 1979, it transforms into a vibrant hub of activity during the plum blossom season, drawing crowds eager to partake in the beauty of the blooms.
北九州市 みどり公園課
• Best time to view: late-Feb. ~ late-Mar.
• Approx. 350 trees
Mitsutake Bairin Park
• Address: Tsujimitsu, Kokuraminami-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
• Access: 15 min. by car from Nishitetsu Nakatani bus stop or 1 hour on foot
• Official website: https://www.city.kitakyushu.lg.jp/contents/924_00698.html
Hananooka Park (Kitakyushu Sogo Noji Center)
Hananooka Park introduces the history and ongoing agricultural initiatives of Kitakyushu City and is a spacious, nature-rich park where a wide variety of plants are cultivated. In the Japanese garden, weeping plum trees (shidare ume) add an elegant touch, while the plum grove features around 170 trees across 16 varieties, including both fruit-bearing and ornamental types.
During the blooming season, visitors may also spot Japanese white-eyes (mejiro) gathering nectar among the blossoms, a seasonal sight unique to this time of year. The park also includes a dog run, barbecue area, and small-animal interaction zone, making it easy to enjoy seasonal flowers while strolling through the grounds.
• Best time to view: mid-Feb. ~ early-Mar.
• Approx. 170 trees / 15 species (Shidare-ume, Kagoshima Kobai, Nanko-ume, Shirokaga, Oushuku, Gyokuei etc.)
Hananooka Park
• Address: 1-6-1 Yokoshiro Higashi-machi, Kokuraminami-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
• Access: ride a Nishitetsu bus and get off at Nouji Center-mae bus stop or 15 min. on foot from Abeyama-koen Sta., JR Nippo Main Line
• Official website: https://k-nouji.com/
• Open: 9:00~17:00 (last entry 16:45)
• Closed: Dec. 29 ~ Jan. 3
Shirakidani Bairin
In a picturesque setting where winter’s touch turns the mountainside a soft beige, a privately maintained plum grove comes to life along the Kusaki River. This enchanting spot is home to approximately 500 plum trees, each bursting with color. As this is a privately owned plum garden open only during the blooming season, visitors are encouraged to contribute to the maintenance fund using the donation box at the entrance.
北九州市 みどり公園課
• Best time to view: late-Feb. ~ late-Mar.
• Approx. 500 trees
Shirakidani Bairin
• Address: Along Kusaki River (by Shiraki Reservoir) Hata, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
• Access: 40 min. on foot from the Shinishizaka bus stop
• Official website: https://www.city.kitakyushu.lg.jp/contents/924_00727.html
Iizuka City
Yakiyama Kogen Kaboku Garden
Perched atop Yakiyama Pass, this scenic park presents an expansive vista of Iizuka City. Spanning approximately 60,000 square meters, it’s a verdant retreat where over 10,000 flowering trees and plants offer a year-round spectacle of blooms. The plum blossom season here is particularly enchanting, with about 840 red and white plum trees arrayed across the rolling hillsides bursting into a resplendent display of color, crafting a breathtaking and majestic landscape.
• Best time to view: mid-Mar. ~ late-Mar.
• Approx. 840 trees
Yakiyama Kogen Kaboku Garden
• Address: 1310-46 Yakiyama, Iizuka City, Fukuoka
• Access: 15 min. by car from JR Sasaguri Line (Fukuhoku Yutaka Line) Kido Nanzoin-mae Sta.
• Official website: https://kankou-iizuka.jp/topic_30/
Chikujo Town
Tsunashiki Tenmangu Shrine
Tsunashiki Tenmangu Shrine is steeped in a poignant tale from the pages of history, tracing back to the exile of Sugawara no Michizane to Dazaifu. Legend has it that following a shipwreck, Michizane was warmly welcomed by locals who laid the ship’s rope in a circle as a sign of honor. In tribute to this esteemed figure, the shrine’s grounds are graced with approximately 1,000 plum trees, creating a living monument to his legacy. Each year, the shrine celebrates this rich history with a vibrant plum festival (Feb. 10 ~ Mar. 10, 2026), drawing visitors to partake in the beauty and tradition of this storied site.
• Best time to view: mid-Feb. ~ early-Mar.
• Approx. 1,000 trees
Tsunashiki Tenmangu Shrine
• Address: 794-2 Takatsuka, Chikujo-machi, Chikujo-gun, Fukuoka
• Access: 10 min. on foot from JR Shiida Sta.
• Official website: https://www.town.chikujo.fukuoka.jp/s036/020/020/050/080/ume-photo.html
Nakama City
Umeyasu Tenmangu Shrine
Umeyasu Tenmangu Shrine, nestled in Nakama City, is celebrated as a prominent destination for plum blossom viewing. This revered site is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the patron deity of scholars and students. A unique feature of the shrine is the statue of an Uso (a mythological bird) located before the worship hall; legend holds that stroking this statue imparts wisdom. It is also known as Umiyasu Tenmangu, a shrine dedicated to safe childbirth. Perched on a hill, the shrine not only offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Nakama City but also boasts 150 striking red and white plum trees, a living tribute to Michizane’s enduring legacy. The blossoms here present a captivating and picturesque display, enriching the cultural and natural beauty of the area.
• Best time to view: mid-Feb. ~ early-Mar.
• Approx. 150 trees
Umeyasu Tenmangu Shrine
• Address: 1-42 Chuo, Nakama City, Fukuoka
• Access: 20 min. on foot from JR Nakama Sta. or 10 min. on foot from Chikuho Dentetsu Higashi Nakama Sta.
• Official website: https://nakamap.jp/viewpoint/jinjyabukkaku.html
Chikugo City
Mizuta Tenmangu Shrine
Mizuta Tenmangu Shrine, distinguished for enshrining the rare deity ‘Koinomikoto’ as its auxiliary shrine, is a beacon for those seeking love and fortuitous connections. Gracing its sacred grounds are about 70 plum trees, featuring both red and white blossoms, which add to the shrine’s serene beauty. Notably, the ‘Tobiume’ (Flying Plum Tree) near the main hall is a sight to behold, coming into splendid bloom from late February. This scenic bloom draws numerous visitors, offering a picturesque backdrop for those seeking blessings in their romantic endeavors.
• Best time to view: early-Feb. ~ mid-Feb. (Tobiume: late-Feb.)
• Approx. 70 trees
Mizuta Tenmangu Shrine
• Address: 62-1 Mizuta, Chikugo City, Fukuoka
• Access: 20 min. on foot from the JR Hainuzuka Sta. or 2 min on foot from Nishitetsu Bus “Mizuta Tenmangu Koinoki Jinja-mae” bus stop
• Official website: https://www.mizuta-koinoki.jp/mizuta/
Yame City
Tanigawa Bairin Plum Grove
Tanigawa Plum Grove, located in Tachibana Town of Yame City, is one of Kyushu’s major plum-growing areas. Spanning approximately 80 hectares, this expansive grove is home to around 20,000 plum trees. During the blooming season, the grove is opened to the public, allowing visitors to walk through the well-maintained grounds and enjoy close-up views of plum blossoms spreading across the surrounding slopes.
Throughout the viewing period, local products are sold and related events may be held. In some years, bamboo lighting displays are installed in the evening, creating a different atmosphere after dark and offering visitors a chance to experience the grove’s changing expressions throughout the day.
During the plum viewing season, shuttle buses operate between the Yame City Hall Tachibana Branch and the area near the grove. Buses run every 10 to 15 minutes, with a one-way fare of ¥100.
• Plum blossom viewing: Feb. 21 (Sat.) ~ Feb. 22 (Sun.) 2026 9:00~17:00 (wine cellar 10:00~16:00)
• Approx. 20,000 trees
Tanigawa Plum Grove
• Address: 1742 Tanigawa, Tachibana-machi, Yame City, Fukuoka (No entry except during the plum blossom viewing season)
• Access: Shuttle bus (Yame City Hall Tachibana Branch Office to the venue)
• Official website: https://www.city.yame.fukuoka.jp/soshiki/16/t01/eventtachibana/1454653601613.html
Yanagawa City
Nanatsue Umenoki Kaido
Along a beautifully maintained 1-kilometer path, a picturesque alignment of plum trees creates a serene backdrop, making it a cherished leisure spot for the residents of Yanagawa City. This path, often frequented for walking and marathon running, is also adorned with charming waterwheel huts and strategically placed benches. These additions invite visitors to take a leisurely stroll and immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the plum blossoms, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
柳川市観光課
• Best time to view: mid-Feb. ~ early-Mar.
• Approx. 150~160 trees (Nanko-ume, Chubai)
Nanatsue Umenoki Kaido
• Address: Nanatsue, Yanagawa City, Fukuoka
• Access: 14 min. on foot from Nogyo Soko-mae bus stop from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Sta.
• Official website: https://www.city.yanagawa.fukuoka.jp/kanko/meisho/10405.html
Omuta City
Garyubai at Fukoji Temple
A visit to the revered ‘Garyubai’ (Sleeping Dragon Plum Tree), designated as a national natural monument, is an awe-inspiring experience. This ancient plum tree, believed to be over 500 years old, has spread its roots both underground and above, spanning an impressive 25 meters in length and branching out into 17 distinct trunks. Its name, evoking the image of a dragon in slumber, reflects its magnificent and serpentine form. Beyond this remarkable tree, the shrine’s grounds are a haven for plum blossom enthusiasts, showcasing around 30 different varieties, including the vibrant red and white plums and the elegantly drooping weeping plums.
• Best time to view: mid-Feb. ~ early-Mar.
• Approx. 200 trees / 30 species
Garyubai
• Address: 2538 Imayama, Omuta City, Fukuoka
• Access: Ride a Nishitetsu bus heading to “Fukoji” from JR Omuta Sta. 10 min. on foot from the Fukoji bus stop
• Official website: https://www.sekoia.org/topic.php?no=1489
• Plum Viewing Event: Feb. 14 (Sat.) 2026 ~ Mar. 15 (Sun.) 2026 10:00~16:00 *subject to change depending on blooming conditions
• Entry fee: ¥500 (over JHS)
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Originally written in January 2026.
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NOTE: The information presented here was gathered and summarized by the Fukuoka Now staff. While we have done our best to check for accuracy, there might be errors and details may have changed. If you notice any errors or changes, please contact us. This report was originally written in January 2019.
