The weeping plum blossoms are reaching their peak earlier than usual in the plum orchard at Mimuroto-ji Temple in Kanmichi, Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, which is one of the largest in Kansai. White, red, and pink flowers bloom, giving off a fragrant scent, and worshipers admire them.
Mimurotoji Temple is famous for its hydrangeas and azaleas, and is known as the ''temple of flowers.'' In 2021, approximately 250 weeping plum trees of three types were planted in an approximately 8,000 square meter forest on a hill overlooking the city, so that people can enjoy them even during the cold months when there are few flowers.
This year, which marks the third year since its release, the flowers started blooming in early February, about a week earlier than usual, probably due to the warm winter. Visitors walk up and down the walking path between the plum groves, enjoying the beautiful views and scents. The best time to see them is expected to be until early March.
''I want you to feel like a Heian aristocrat and enjoy the beautiful flowers,'' said Mitsukyo Itami, chief priest of Mimuroto Temple. Until March 31st. Admission fee required.
