Turning attention to the serene beauty of plum blossoms, unlike the showy splendor of cherry blossoms.
- kanae matsubara
- Jan 7
- 3 min read
When people think of spring in Japan, many immediately imagine cherry blossoms.
Yet just before the cherry trees bloom, Japan welcomes spring in a much quieter way.
That gentle beginning is marked by plum blossoms.
Plum flowers bloom as the harsh cold of winter begins to soften.
Their delicate beauty and refined fragrance have captivated the Japanese heart for centuries.
Plum blossoms are not only admired as flowers, but have also been expressed in many forms—appearing in kimono designs and traditional crafts throughout Japanese history.
With a desire to share the beauty of these plum blossoms, I have created the Plum Blossom Stroll Private Tour.
White, pale pink, and deep crimson flowers release a soft fragrance even before the petals fully open.
This private walking tour is a special opportunity to experience the quiet beauty unique to the plum blossom season, at your own pace and in a calm, unhurried way.
Unlike the lively crowds of cherry blossom viewing, this stroll invites slowness.
The pace of walking, the way time is felt—everything naturally slows down.
As you listen closely to fragrance, light, and the sound beneath your feet, you will experience the seasonal transitions that Japanese people have cherished for generations.
During the walk, we will gently explore topics such as:
The differences between cherry blossoms and plum blossoms, and the aesthetic values Japanese people associate with each
The symbolism of plum blossoms as a sign of learning and new beginnings
Seasonal customs that guide Japan from Setsubun into spring
Plum-based food culture rooted in daily life, such as umeboshi and plum tea
As we visit shrines, gardens, and historic neighborhoods where plum blossoms have long been admired, we will also uncover their connections to poetry, stories, and traditional arts.
About the Host
This tour is guided by Kanae Matsubara, a private tour host who has guided visitors from around the world throughout Japan.
She has been deeply involved with both Tokyo and Kyoto, and has also worked in regional revitalization beyond major cities.
She values sharing the quieter, often overlooked aspects of Japan—elements that may not appear in guidebooks, yet clearly express the essence of Japanese culture.
This is not a tour designed simply to visit famous sites or consume experiences.
If you are a traveler drawn to culture, art, and the deeper layers of daily life—and wish to understand Japan beyond the surface—this private tour will offer a meaningful and lasting experience.
Before the busy spring season begins,
take a walk guided not by sound, but by scent.
May the plum blossoms become your gentle, quiet introduction to Japan.
[Limited-Time Offer] Free Pilot Tour
Plum Blossom Stroll Private Tour (3 hours only)We are currently offering a free monitor tour for the 3-hour Plum Blossom Stroll Private Tour.
Fee: FreeContent: Same as the standard 3-hour private tourCondition: Participants must agree to allow photos taken during the tour to be used on my website and Instagram
Recommended for those who are interested in seasonal culture and wish to experience Japan more deeply than standard sightseeing.
Please note:
Availability is limited
The tour schedule depends on the blooming condition of the plum blossoms
Transportation and food expenses are not included
Available dates: January 22, 23, 29, 30 / February 3–7
Please message me with your preferred date and time
Planned location: Kameido Tenjin Shrine or others
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