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February 21, 2026 at 10:00 am
Event date:
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March 10, 2026 at 4:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Japan Umeshu Festival began as a nationwide celebration of umeshu, a beloved Japanese liqueur made by steeping ume plums in alcohol and sugar. Umeshu has been enjoyed in Japan for centuries, valued for its sweet aroma, refreshing flavor, and traditional connection to springtime plum blossoms. The festival was created to introduce people from around the country to regional varieties and brewing techniques.
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Contact Jasumo Now →Over the years, the event expanded to include breweries from all across Japan, bringing together over 140 varieties of umeshu—from premium aged blends to fruity modern styles. Visitors have the chance to discover differences in flavor based on region, brewing style, and plum type, making it a paradise for enthusiasts and first-time tasters alike.
Today, the festival held in Mito is considered the largest and most popular umeshu-tasting event in the country. Set against the backdrop of Kairakuen’s famous plum blossoms, it perfectly blends cultural tradition, seasonal beauty, and Japan’s rich brewing heritage.
Overview
The Japan Umeshu Festival 2026 will be held from late February to early March at the Kairakuen Tokiwa Shrine grounds in Mito, Ibaraki Prefecture. With more than 140 umeshu varieties available, visitors can enjoy a unique 30-minute tasting experience that highlights the incredible diversity of plum wine from breweries nationwide.
Guests can purchase advance tickets at 7-Eleven stores or buy them onsite at a slightly higher price. Each ticket grants access to a dedicated tasting session that includes a sampling cup and an opportunity to try a wide selection of umeshu, including sparkling blends, barrel-aged varieties, and limited-edition brews.
Highlights
- Sample over 140 different umeshu varieties from breweries across Japan.
- Enjoy a 30-minute tasting session included with your festival ticket.
- Discover rare, regional, and limited-edition plum wines not easily found elsewhere.
- Experience the festival beside the iconic Kairakuen Garden during plum blossom season.
- Learn about traditional brewing methods and modern umeshu innovations.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- A must-visit for anyone who loves Japanese drinks or wants to try unique flavors.
- Perfect seasonal timing, pairing plum wine tasting with blooming plum trees.
- Easy access with a seasonal train station operating only during the plum season.
- Great opportunity to explore both traditional and contemporary styles of umeshu.
- Affordable tasting tickets offering generous sampling options.
If you’re coming to Japan or already in Japan and need any type of help—from custom tours and experiences to transportation, booking tickets, and more—just contact us using the Contact Us page on Jasumo.
Schedule
- Dates: Late February – Early March 2026
- Event Hours: Typically 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (may close earlier on the final day)
- Session Duration: 30 minutes of tasting per ticketed session
Pricing
- Advance Tickets (via 7-Eleven): ¥1,100
- Day-of Tickets: ¥1,200
Includes festival entry, a tasting cup, and access to sample umeshu for 30 minutes.
Location
Kairakuen Tokiwa Shrine
1 Chome-3-1 Tokiwacho, Mito, Ibaraki 310-0033, Japan
How to Get There
- JR Jōban Line: 1-minute walk from Kairakuen Station (seasonal station open only in February–March).
- If arriving outside seasonal station hours, Mito Station provides bus and taxi access to the area.
Accommodation Options
Mito City offers a range of business hotels, boutique stays, and budget-friendly accommodations perfect for festival-goers. Many hotels provide easy connections to Kairakuen Garden and other local attractions.
Expect average nightly rates of 7,000 to 18,000 JPY, depending on the hotel class and the timing of your stay. Booking early is recommended due to increased demand during plum blossom season.
FAQs
What is the Japan Umeshu Festival?
It is a major tasting event featuring over 140 varieties of umeshu, held annually in Mito during the plum blossom season.
How long can I taste umeshu with my ticket?
Each ticket includes a 30-minute tasting session, giving you ample time to sample many varieties.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Advance tickets are recommended because they are cheaper, but same-day tickets are usually available at a slightly higher price.
Is the festival beginner-friendly for first-time umeshu drinkers?
Yes, many varieties are mild and easy to enjoy, and staff are available to guide beginners through recommendations.
How do I get to the venue easily?
The nearest station is Kairakuen Station on the JR Jōban Line, operating only during February and March for plum season visitors.
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