Hiking Among the Plum Blossoms on the Historical Road

Takao Baigo (Takao Plum Tree Road)

(Hachiouji City, Tokyo) 

【Ume (梅)】 refers to the Japanese plum blossom, which blooms with white, pink or red flowers in early spring. People hold a special fondness for “Ume” as a symbol of precursor of spring. Across Japan, various places celebrate the blossoms by hosting “Ume” festivals.

Takao Baigo is one of the venues that hosts an “Ume” festival. In early March, coinciding with the peak bloom of plum trees, the festival takes place. Nestled at the base of Mount Takao, along a valley, there is a historical road that leads to present Yamanashi prefecture. The road was one of the five major roads in 17th to 19th centuries connecting present-day Tokyo with other local areas of the country.

Takao Baigo area is located along this old road. Approximately 10,000 plum trees flourish in shades of white and red. These trees were initially planted in unused farmland back in 1962. Subsequently, local residents also planted plum trees in their backyards as a symbol of family celebrations, such as a child’s entry into school. Over time, this area has developed seven major groves and lines of plum trees along the street.

From JR Takao Railway Station, you can take a bus to plum groves. As the bus traversed the residential area, the road gradually narrowed and enter to the valley. As you get off the bus at one of the plum groves, a vision in white unfolds before your eyes: the plum blossoms are in full bloom, resembling trees capped with snow. From this point, you can enjoy a leisurely walk back to the train station, taking in the picturesque hues and the charming local ambiance. The distance between train station and a plum grove is 1 to 5km. Depending on your physical condition or available time, you can choose which grove to explore. On this day, I alighted the bus in front of the Surusahi plum grove, 3km from the station.

Within a plum grove stands a small shrine dedicated to Sugawara-no-Michizane, a historical figure from the 9th century. Renowned for his famous plum poem and dedication to study, he has been venerated as the God of Learning, associated with plum trees, at shrines across Japan.

A scenic recreation trail, lined with plum trees, is available alongside the stream. The melodious songs of birds herald the approach of spring. During the festival, local residents establish rest areas within the grove and along the street, contributing to the celebratory atmosphere.