Top 5 Plum Blossom Viewing Spots Near Tokyo｜Easy Day Trips in Early Spring
As winter eases and signs of spring begin to bloom in February, Chiba Prefecture becomes a wonderful destination to enjoy Japan’s plum blossoms (ume). Just about an hour from central Tokyo, these scenic spots are filled with sweet floral aromas and colorful views of white and pink blossoms.
Here are five recommended plum blossom viewing spots in Chiba, perfect for a refreshing day trip to experience Japan’s seasonal beauty.
Akebonoyama Agricultural Park
Akebonoyama Agricultural Park features around 100 plum trees of 10 different varieties, including Shirokaga and Koba-ume. From mid-February to early March, the park is enveloped in a gentle fragrance, making it an ideal place for a peaceful stroll.
During the blooming season, the park hosts a Plum Viewing Festival, with guided tours and craft events. The park is also known for its seasonal flowers throughout the year—plum and cherry blossoms in spring, sunflowers and lotus in summer, cosmos and maple leaves in autumn.
The iconic Dutch-style windmill makes for a stunning photo spot, and there's also a Japanese garden, local produce market, and picnic areas where visitors can relax.
Best viewing time: Mid-February to early March
Highlights:
・Wide variety of plum trees
・Scenic windmill backdrop
・Seasonal treats like sweet sake and red bean soup
Access: About 20 minutes from Joban Expressway Kashiwa IC
Hiroo Disaster Prevention Park
Located along the Old Edogawa River, Hiroo Disaster Prevention Park is home to around 20–30 plum trees, offering a calm, nature-rich setting for a riverside walk. You can also spot waterbirds while strolling the walking trails.
The spacious park is designed for both recreation and emergency use, with open lawns and a rose garden that blooms beautifully in spring. It's a great spot for a quiet break or walking with children or pets.
Best viewing time: From mid-February
Highlights:
・Tranquil riverside plum blossoms
・Ideal for slow walks and nature viewing
・Open lawns and playgrounds for children
Access: 18 minutes on foot from Minami-Gyotoku Station (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line) or Ichinoe Station (Toei Shinjuku Line)
Shimizu Park
Shimizu Park is home to around 100 plum trees across 20 varieties, blooming from late February to early March. Many trees are decades old, creating a beautiful contrast of red and white blossoms.
The park is also known for cherry blossoms and is listed among Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots. With a vast space that includes athletic fields, a pony farm, and campgrounds, it’s a great spot for nature lovers and families.
Best viewing time: Late February
Highlights:
・One of Japan's top cherry blossom locations
・Enjoy plum blossoms as well as seasonal flowers
・Perfect for outdoor activities
Access: About 12 km from Nagareyama IC via Matsudo-Noda Road
Ichikawa Zoo & Botanical Garden
Ichikawa City Zoo is a family-friendly destination with a variety of animals including red pandas and orangutans. In its plum grove, around 60 white plum trees bloom between late January and mid-March.
The adjacent botanical garden showcases seasonal flowers year-round, including cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. It’s a peaceful spot for enjoying both nature and animal encounters.
Best viewing time: Late January to mid-March
Highlights:
・Unique combination of plum blossoms and animals
・Botanical garden for all seasons
・Hands-on experiences for visitors
Access: Bus from JR Motoyawata Station or Musashino Line Ichikawa-Ono Station
Junsai Pond Park
Located in Ichikawa City, this park features around 140 plum trees in shades of red and white. From late January to late February, the park offers a gentle, fragrant environment perfect for a stroll.
The area around the pond is also known for cherry blossoms and azaleas in the spring and early summer. Waterbirds visit the pond throughout the year, creating a peaceful nature experience.
Best viewing time: Late January to late February
Highlights:
・Serene combination of pond and plum blossoms
・Ideal for quiet early spring walks
Access: Take a bus from JR Ichikawa Station via Keisei Kōnodai Station to "Junsaiike" stop
Summary
Chiba Prefecture offers many scenic plum blossom spots that are easily accessible from Tokyo. Whether you're looking for a quiet stroll, photography opportunities, or a nature escape, these locations are great for enjoying Japan’s early spring charm.
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I introduce wonderful travel spots mainly around Chiba.
Just a short trip from Tokyo, Chiba is full of beautiful nature and exciting places to explore.
Through photos of stunning landscapes and delicious food, I share the many wonderful attractions Chiba has to offer!
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