In this guide
Suzuka Forest Garden (Suzuka no Mori Teien)
Plum Blossom Season at Suzuka Forest Garden
While cherry trees (sakura) are often seen as Japan’s signature spring flower, plum trees have also long held an important place in Japanese culture. Japanese plum (ume) is the first flower to bloom each year in Japan, cherished for centuries as a symbol of the start of spring. Plum blossoms typically begin in mid-February and last until mid-March.
Suzuka Forest Garden features a collection of precious weeping Japanese plum trees. Many are Kureha Shidare, and some are classified among the largest class in Japan. The site is a research and cultivation farm that helps pass traditional Japanese cultivation techniques on to future generations. The garden and its plum trees are regularly landscaped and maintained by experienced gardeners.
The garden is open to the public only during the early-spring blooming season. Plum blossoms in a range of colors—from white to vivid pink—flourish throughout the garden, creating picturesque scenery. During the nighttime illumination period, you can enjoy a spectacular view of about 200 magnificent plum trees in bloom, beautifully lit up.
Suzuka Forest Garden Plum Blossom Festival 2022
Plum blossoms come into season before cherry blossoms in Japan, from February to March, and are every bit as beautiful. Suzuka Forest Garden’s Plum Blossom Festival is held annually during this period. The best viewing time is usually from early March. Nighttime light-ups are also held during the season. Suzuka Forest Garden’s Plum Blossom Festival is a standout destination for enjoying plum blossoms in Japan.
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gTLXpm5Lm_E
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jRe2jgK8Rw
General Information
- Operated by: Akatsuka Botanical Garden Group
- Address: 151-2 Yamamotocho, Suzuka, Mie 519-0315
- Telephone: 059-371-1777
- Opening hours:
- February 19th – mid-March, 2022: 09:00 – 16:00 (until 20:30 during the light-up period)
- Dates may change depending on the flowering status of the plums.
- Last admission is at 15:30 or 20:00.
- Holidays: No closures during the period the garden is open
Admission Fee
- Adults: 700 – 1,700 yen
- Children (ages 7–12): 350 – 850 yen
- Children under 7: Free
- Entrance fees may change depending on the condition of the flowers in bloom.
Ease of Access
- Taxi from Komono Station
- Bus No. 62 from JR Yokkaichi Station to Noda stop, then a 20-minute walk
- Shuttle bus service is available between JR Yokkaichi Station and the garden via Kintetsu Yokkaichi Station for a limited period
Location
Suzuka Forest Garden is located in Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture. Suzuka City is known for its beautiful weeping plum trees, attracting visitors from across Japan during the season.
Social Media
- Website: https://www.akatsuka.gr.jp/group/suzuka/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/akatsukagarden/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akatsukagarden/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/akatsukagroup/
