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February 21, 2026 at 9:00 am
Event date:
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March 31, 2026 at 5:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Misato Plum Grove (Misato Bairin) was planted in the early 1970s as part of a local agricultural revitalization project in Takasaki’s Misato district. Farmers, facing declining rice profits, turned to plum cultivation on the steep, south-facing hillsides—ideal for the fruit’s cold-hardiness and long blooming period.
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Contact Jasumo Now →By the 1980s, over 100,000 trees had been established, creating one of Japan’s largest ume monocultures. The first informal festival began in 1985 when residents opened the groves to visitors, serving homemade umeboshi and amazake under the blossoms. Word spread quickly among Kanto day-trippers seeking an early-spring escape before cherry season.
Today, the annual Misato Plum Festival is Gunma’s premier plum-blossom event, drawing over 300,000 visitors to witness the “sea of clouds” effect as white blooms blanket the hillsides—often with distant views of snow-capped Mt. Akagi.
Overview
The Misato Plum Festival 2026 runs from late February to late March at Misato Bairin, a 50-hectare hillside grove in Takasaki, Gunma. Approximately 100,000 plum trees—mostly white-flowering varieties—create a breathtaking sea of blossoms that appears to float above the Kanto Plain.
Weekend and holiday stalls offer plum-based specialties: umeshu (plum wine), umeboshi (pickled plums), plum jam, and warm amazake. The gentle slopes and panoramic views make it perfect for relaxed walks, photography, and picnics. Free entry and ample parking make it an accessible early-spring highlight.
Highlights
- 100,000 Plum Trees in Bloom: Dense white blossoms covering the hills, creating a surreal “cloud sea” effect.
- Panoramic Kanto Plain Views: Clear days reveal Tokyo Skytree and the distant skyline from higher trails.
- Plum Specialty Stalls: Weekend vendors selling umeshu, umeboshi, plum sweets, and local crafts.
- Early Spring Serenity: Quiet weekdays offer peaceful viewing before cherry-blossom crowds arrive.
- Photo Spots & Walking Trails: Well-maintained paths with benches and plum-lined tunnels.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- 100,000 Plum Trees in Bloom: Dense white blossoms covering the hills, creating a surreal “cloud sea” effect.
- Panoramic Kanto Plain Views: Clear days reveal Tokyo Skytree and the distant skyline from higher trails.
- Plum Specialty Stalls: Weekend vendors selling umeshu, umeboshi, plum sweets, and local crafts.
- Early Spring Serenity: Quiet weekdays offer peaceful viewing before cherry-blossom crowds arrive.
- Photo Spots & Walking Trails: Well-maintained paths with benches and plum-lined tunnels.
If you’re coming to Japan or already in Japan, Jasumo can arrange private plum-blossom tours, picnic setups, local farm visits, and more. Just contact us using the contact page.
Schedule
Late February – Late March 2026
- Best Viewing: Early to mid-March (peak bloom varies yearly)
- Stalls: Weekends and national holidays
- Access: Open daily during daylight hours
Pricing
Completely free entry and parking.
Location
Misato Bairin Misatomachi Zenji, Takasaki, Gunma 370-3115, Japan
How to Get There
- By Car (Recommended): – 30 minutes from Maebashi IC (Kan-Etsu Expressway) – Free parking for 1,000+ vehicles
- By Train + Taxi/Bus: – JR Joetsu/Shinetsu Line to Takasaki Station → 25-minute taxi (~¥4,000) – Limited local buses available (weekends only)
- From Tokyo: ~2 hours by car or train + taxi
Accommodation Options
Takasaki city (20 min drive) offers business hotels from ¥7,000–¥15,000 and luxury options near the station up to ¥30,000. Nearby onsen towns like Ikaho and Minakami have traditional ryokan from ¥18,000–¥50,000 with meals—perfect for combining plum viewing with hot springs.
Camping and glamping sites near the grove open in spring. Book early for early March weekends.
FAQs
When is peak bloom in 2026?
Typically early to mid-March, but depends on winter temperatures. Check local updates in February.
Are the stalls open every day?
No—mainly weekends and holidays. Bring snacks if visiting weekdays.
Is the terrain difficult?
Gentle to moderate slopes with paved and dirt paths. Wear comfortable shoes; not fully stroller-friendly on upper trails.
Can I see Mt. Fuji or Tokyo Skytree?
On very clear days, yes—from the highest viewpoints, especially in late afternoon.
Is it crowded?
Busy on weekends, but far less than cherry-blossom spots. Arrive before 10 AM for quieter viewing.
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