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As the calendar turns to early February, marking the onset of spring with ‘Risshun’ in the Japanese almanac, the landscape of Fukuoka begins to be adorned with the delicate hues of plum blossoms. These charming flowers, blossoming in an array of reds, whites, and pinks, emit a delightful fragrance and proudly represent Fukuoka as its prefectural flower. In this edition, Fukuoka Now has meticulously curated a list of 24 exquisite locations for plum blossom admiration. These include the time-honored Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine with its renowned ‘flying plum tree’ and the plum grove of Maizuru Park, places steeped in history and beloved by many.

Due to the cold weather this year, blooming has been slightly delayed in many areas, allowing for plum blossom viewing from mid-February to early March.
▷Fukuoka Plum Blossom Guide 2025 Google Map

Plum Blossom Viewing Spots in Fukuoka
Fukuoka City (5)
Itoshima City (1)
Dazaifu City (1)
Kurume City (3)
Munakata City (1)
Kitakyushu City (3)
Buzen City (1)
Iizuka City (1)
Chikujo Town (1)
Kama City (1)
Nakama City (1)
Ukiha 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 22, and Sunday, February 23. The event will feature food trucks, market stalls, and performances such as monkey shows.

• Best time to view: Early Feb. ~ late Feb.
• Approx. 250 trees (35 species, plum blossom list)
• 1-4 Jonai, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
• Access: 8 min. on foot from Fukuoka City Subway Akasaka or Ohori Koen Sta.
• https://www.midorimachi.jp/maiduru/
• Kyushu Live: Plum Blossoms & Flea Market in Fukuoka (Feb. 20, 2022)

Ohori Park Japanese Garden

Ohori Park, a beloved oasis for Fukuoka residents, is home to a Japanese garden with three plum trees that bloom in shades of pink and deep red. The carefully manicured setting, accented by the green of pine needles, creates an elegant scene that evokes the arrival of spring. Within the park, the Tea Ceremony House offers matcha twice a month. In February, sessions will be held on Tuesday, the 4th, and Wednesday, the 26th, starting at 10:30 AM. (¥800 per serving, available while supplies last.)

• Best time to view: Early Feb. ~ early Mar.
• Approx. three trees
• 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
• 1 Ohorikoen, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
• Access: 10 min. on foot from Fukuoka City Subway Ohori Koen Sta.
• https://ohoriteien.jp/

Hirao Sanso (Mountain Villa)

This mountain villa (hut) is a designated cultural property of Fukuoka. The sight of plum blossoms against a thatched roof is lovely.
Fukuoka Topics – Botoni Nomura—Female Poet of the Late Edo Era

• Best time to view: Early Feb. ~ late Feb.
• Approx. 20 trees
• 5-2-28 Hirao, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
• Access: 13 min. on foot from Nishitetsu Hirao Sta.
• https://yokanavi.com/spot/26954/

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.
• 2 trees
• 3 Shimokawabata-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• Access: short walk from Fukuoka City Subway Nakasu Kawabata Sta.
• https://yokanavi.com/spot/27152/

Aburayama Fukuoka

Aburayama Fukuoka, a seamless integration of Moo-Moo Land Aburayama Ranch and Aburayama Citizen’s Forest, celebrated its grand reopening in April 2023 after extensive renovations. Nestled within this rejuvenated space is a charming plum garden, home to around 300 flourishing plum trees. Visitors can access this picturesque garden from the side of the Citizen’s Forest, with a leisurely 10-minute stroll from either the forest’s main plaza or the P5 parking area. The plum blossoms reach their peak beauty starting in early February, offering a breathtaking spectacle. Additionally, the park boasts a central observatory tower, providing panoramic views of Fukuoka’s cityscape, a perfect blend of nature and urban beauty.

• Best time to view: Early Feb. ~ late Feb.
• Approx. 300 trees
• 855 Hibaru, Minami-ku, Fukuoka
• Access: 15 min. by car from Fukuoka Urban Expressway Tsutsumi ramp
• Parking fee: standard car ¥300/3 hours (over 3 hours, ¥100/1 hour)
• https://www.aburayama-fukuoka.com/look/

Itoshima City

Kofuji Bairin

Gracing the southern slopes of Mt. Kaya, locally endeared as ‘Itoshima Fuji,’ lies a renowned destination for plum blossom viewing. This picturesque landscape is dotted with approximately 3,000 plum trees, a blend of history and tradition. Among them are 1,000 venerable trees planted during the Edo period as a means of famine relief, alongside 2,000 trees cultivated by farmers in the post-war era to boost their livelihoods. Visitors can meander through the gentle inclines, immersing themselves in the scenic beauty of these blossoming marvels. Adding to the charm is the panoramic view of Funakoshi Bay, affectionately referred to as Kafuri bay, unfolding beneath the plum-laden hillsides. This area is not designated as a public park, so the plum trees are generally on private property. Please be mindful and refrain from entering restricted areas.

• Best time to view: Mid-Feb. ~ early Mar.
• Approx. 3,000 trees
• Shima-Kofuji, Itoshima City, Fukuoka
• Access: Take the JR Chikuhi Line, get off at Chikumae-maehara Sta. (North Exit), take the Keya Line, get off at the Kofuji Bus Stop, and walk about 10 min.
• https://kanko-itoshima.jp/spot/kofujibairin/

Dazaifu City

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, a renowned haven for plum blossom enthusiasts, boasts an impressive collection of about 200 varieties and nearly 6,000 plum trees, resplendent in shades of white and red. The shrine’s hallowed grounds are graced by the legendary ‘Tobiume’ (Flying Plum Tree), a divine tree believed to have miraculously soared overnight from Kyoto, drawn by the spirit of Sugawara no Michizane, the deity honored here. Reflecting Michizane’s deep affection for plum blossoms, the emblem of the shrine is fittingly adorned with a plum motif. The approach to the shrine is lined with charming tea houses and souvenir shops, offering a delightful experience of meandering through this sacred space while savoring the famous Umegae mochi, a local specialty.

• Best time to view: Early Feb. ~ early Mar.
• Approx. 6,000 trees
• 4-7-1 Saifu, Dazaifu City, Fukuoka
• Access: 5 min. on foot from Nishitetsu Dazaifu Sta.
• http://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 15 to 28, featuring plum-themed desserts, concerts, and flower workshops.

• Best time to view: Mid-Feb. ~ early Mar.
• Approx. 140 trees
• 1015 Nonaka-machi, Kurume City, Fukuoka
• Access: take Nishitetsu Bus from Nishitetsu Kurume Sta, get off at Bunka Center-mae bus stop.
• https://ishibashi-bunka.jp/hanameguri/program/plumfestival2025/

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
• 5-12-1 Miyanojin, Kurume City, Fukuoka
• Access: 5 min. on foot from Nishitetsu Miyanojin Sta.
• 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
• 209-24 Kyo-machi, Kurume City, Fukuoka
• Access: 5 min. on foot from JR Kurume Sta.
• https://welcome-kurume.com/spots/detail/

Munakata City

Chinkokuji Temple

Chinkokuji Temple, revered as a sanctuary for both flowers and prayers, celebrates the beauty of nature with seasonal blossoms all year round. Within its serene precincts, the delicate ‘Tanko Ume’ plum trees, adorned with their subtle pink blossoms, begin their enchanting display in February, offering an extended viewing period that lasts until February. Coinciding with this splendid spectacle, the temple also becomes a haven for the early-blooming ‘Atami Sakura’ cherry blossoms. This unique timing allows visitors the rare opportunity to simultaneously revel in the splendor of both plum and cherry blossoms, creating a captivating floral experience.

• Best time to view: Early Feb. ~ early Mar.
• Approx. 20 trees
• 966 Yoshida, Munakata City, Fukuoka
• Access: 15 min. on foot from Nishitetsu Bus Munakata Taisha-mae.
• http://chinkokuji.or.jp

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.

• Best time to view: Late Jan. ~ late Feb.
• Approx. 350 trees
• Tsujimitsu, Kokuraminami-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
• Access: approx. 15 min. by taxi from Nishitetsu Nakatani bus stop or 1 hour on foot
• https://www.city.kitakyushu.lg.jp/contents/924_00698.html

Hananooka Park (Kitakyushu Sogo Noji Center)

HananookaPark, a testament to Kitakyushu City’s rich agricultural heritage, is a sanctuary where a myriad of flowers are meticulously cultivated. Within its traditional Japanese garden, the park features the graceful ‘Shidare Ume’ or weeping plum trees. The dedicated plum orchard is a sight to behold, showcasing about 170 plum trees spanning 16 varieties, including those prized for their fruit as well as ornamental bloomers. Beyond the floral attractions, the park is well-equipped with leisure amenities like a dog run and a BBQ plaza. It also offers delightful interactive experiences, inviting visitors to feed and interact with ponies, goats, and capybaras, adding an element of joy and connection to nature.

• Best time to view: Mid-Feb. ~ early Mar.
• Approx. 170 trees, 16 varieties
• Open: 9:00~17:00
• 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
• https://k-nouji.com/see

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.

• Best time to view: Late Jan. ~ late Feb.
• Approx. 500 trees
• Along Kusaki River (by Shiraki Reservoir) Hata, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
• Access: 40 min. on foot from the Shinishizaka bus stop
• https://www.city.kitakyushu.lg.jp/contents/924_00727.html

Buzen City

Tenchizan Park

Tenchizan Park, distinguished as one of Japan’s Top 100 City Parks, offers a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty. It’s a paradise for children, with its exciting roller slide and dynamic athletic field captivating their imagination. But the park’s allure extends beyond playful attractions. As a celebrated plum blossom spot in Buzen City, it offers a mesmerizing backdrop of red and white plum blossoms. These floral displays provide a stunning contrast against the urban skyline of Buzen City and the serene expanse of the Suo-nada Sea, offering visitors a breathtaking panorama that beautifully encapsulates the essence of the region.

• Best time to view: Early Feb. ~ mid-Mar.
• Approx. 160 trees
• Open: 9:00~17:00 (Feb.), 9:00~18:00 (Mar.)
• 1140-1 Omura, Buzen City, Fukuoka
• Access: 5 min. by car from JR Ujima Sta. (50 min. on foot, approx. 3.6km)
• http://www.buzen-kk.jp/nature_ume.html

Iizuka City

Yakiyama 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-Feb. ~ early Mar.
• Approx. 840 trees
• 1310-46 Yakiyama, Iizuka City, Fukuoka
• Access: 15 min. by car from JR Sasaguri Line (Fukuhoku Yutaka Line) Kido Nanzoin-mae Sta.
• http://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, 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
• Shiida Ume Festival: 2/10 (Mon.) ~ 3/10 (Mon.)
• 794-2 Takatsuka, Chikujo-machi, Chikujo-gun, Fukuoka
• Access: 10 min. on foot from JR Shiida Sta.
• https://www.town.chikujo.fukuoka.jp/s036/020/030/010/090/umematsuri.html

Kama City

Kama City Bairin Park

Within the park, a spectacle of around 400 plum trees comes to life, their blossoms heralding the arrival of spring. During the prime viewing season, from late February to March, the park transforms into a hub of culinary delight. Visitors can indulge in local specialties at the park’s stalls, including savory udon noodles and the iconic umeboshi, pickled plums that are a hallmark of Japanese cuisine. Amidst this bustling atmosphere, the air is filled with the sweet, enchanting aroma of plum blossoms, creating an immersive sensory experience.

• Best time to view: Late Feb. ~ Mar.
• Approx. 400 trees
• 328-1 Shimo-Yamada, Kama City, Fukuoka
• Access: 15 min. on foot from Nishitetsu Shimo-Yamada Elementary School bus stop
• https://www.crossroadfukuoka.jp/spot/10399

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
• 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.
• https://nakamap.jp/viewpoint/jinjyabukkaku.html

Ukiha City

Yabejizo Park

This park, a legacy of a former corporate headquarters, now stands as a gift to the community, renowned for its approximately 300 blossoming white plum trees. It invites visitors to meander along its beautifully manicured walking paths, embracing the tranquility of nature. Offering a sweeping view of the city, cradled by the meandering Chikugo River, the park is uniquely adorned with 337 stone sculptures. These include serene Jizo statues, graceful Kannon figures, contemplative Arhat images, and whimsical Kappa sculptures, all meticulously carved by skilled stone sculptors. This array of artistry set amidst natural beauty makes the park a distinct and captivating destination.

• Best time to view: Mid-Feb. ~ early Mar.
• Approx. 300 trees
• 583-11 Yabe, Yoshii-machi, Ukiha City, Fukuoka
• Access: 10 min. by car via Asakura Interchange or 15 min. on foot from JR Chikugo-Yoshii Sta.
• https://ukihalove.jp/contents/yabejizoukouen/

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 50 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. 50 trees
• 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
• https://www.mizuta-koinoki.jp/mizuta/

Yame City

Tanigawa Bairin Plum Grove

Visit Tanigawa Plum Grove, nestled in Tachibana Town of Yame City, known as one of Kyushu’s premier plum-producing regions. Spread over a vast 80-hectare area, the meticulously maintained grove boasts about 20,000 plum trees. During the flowering season, the grove is open to the public, inviting visitors to meander through the blossoming landscape.

During the event period, the grove becomes a hub of activity with various stage events like monkey performances and dances. Visitors can also enjoy sampling and purchasing wine made from Yame’s local fruits, alongside specialty products and food booths. Additionally, the enchanting “Bamboo Light Fantasy World” is a must-see, where lit bamboo illuminates the wine cellar (entrance fee ¥500, free for high school students and younger). During the day, the beautiful bamboo lanterns are a picturesque sight.

Convenient shuttle buses run every 10-15 minutes from Yame City Hall Tachibana Branch to the plum viewing site (one-way ¥100), making it easy for visitors to access this floral spectacle.

• Plum blossom viewing season: 2/22 (Sat.) ~ 2/24 (Mon., hol.)
• 10:00~16:00
• Free entry (entry fee for wine cellar: ¥500, free for under HS)
• Tanigawa Plum Grove
• 1742 Tanigawa, Tachibana-machi, Yame City, Fukuoka (No entry except during the plum blossom viewing season)
• Shuttle bus (Yame City Hall Tachibana Branch Office to the venue) ¥100 one-way
• 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.

• Best time to view: Mid-Feb. ~ early Mar.
• Approx. 180 trees
• Nanatsue, Yanagawa City, Fukuoka
• Access: 14 min. on foot from Nogyo Soko-mae bus stop from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Sta.
• https://www.crossroadfukuoka.jp/spot/10304

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
• Plum Viewing Event: 2/15 (Sat.) ~ 3/9 (Sun.) 10:00~15:00 ¥500 (over JHS) *subject to change depending on blooming conditions
• 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
• https://www.sekoia.org/topic.php?no=1489

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Originally written in January 2025.
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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.