This blog is made by staff of J-Hoppers Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka. We usually write about travel information on Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka. Also you'll see information about other guest houses and backpacker's hostels and local information like events or festivals. We are very happy if we could enrich your stay in Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka.

March 3, 2008

Ume blossoms and Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

Ume blossoms in Kitano Tenmangu Shine, north of Kyoto city
video clip

Sakura is definitely the most famous blossom in Japan.

However, Japanese plum trees (ume trees) bear beautiful blossoms, too.

When it comes to plum blossoms in Kyoto, we cannot talk without Kitano Tenmangu Shrine.

http://www.kitanotenmangu.or.jp/eigo/index.html

The shrine was built in the 10th century to honor Michizane Sugawara. He is believed to be kind of Genius, many students visit there to make a wish for their admission exams.

About ume (Japanese plum) blossoms

It came to Japan in the 8th century from China.

In Heian period (8the -12th century), ume was more popular than sakura (Japanese cherry blossoms) for blossom viewing (Hanami)

Ume smells sweeter than sakura and it tells of arrival of spring a little before sakura.

I went to the shrine with my family yesterday.

It has blossoms out around half.

I think you will enjoy them at least until the mid march.

I recommend you take Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in you travel schedule.

It takes about 30 minutes from by bus from Kyoto Station. Nice to visit on the way to Kinkakuji Temple or Ryoanji Temple using the 1-day bus pass.

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