Enjoy the Early Blossom Season at the 'Plum Festival' in Odawara Flower Garden

Discover the Cherry Blossoms at Odawara Flower Garden: A Plum Festival Event

The Odawara Flower Garden—known for its stunning landscapes situated at approximately 113 meters above sea level in Odawara, Kanagawa Prefecture—is excited to announce the beginning of its annual 'Plum Festival' running from January 24 to March 1, 2026. This year, visitors can enjoy approximately 300 different varieties and 500 trees of plums, all available for free entry!

Early Blooming Thanks to Unusual Weather

This season, the plum blossoms are arriving approximately one week earlier than usual due to weather conditions, showcasing the early blooming varieties like 'Yaekankou' and 'Yaeyabai,' which are already at peak beauty. Make your visit early to enjoy the stunning views of these blossoms amid the breathtaking backdrop of the Tanzawa mountain range, particularly around the beginning of the festival.

What to Expect at the Festival

From January 24 to March 1, this free-entry festival will run daily without breaks, inviting guests of all ages to explore.

The 2026 festival theme is 'Late-Blooming Plums: A Magnificent World,' emphasizing unique varieties that bloom later in the season. Engaging activities will include guided tours that not only introduce the plum varieties but also feature interactive quizzes and explanations.

On February 22, a special one-day kimono rental and dressing service will allow participants to fully immerse themselves in this cultural experience, complete with a complimentary warm dessert—'oshiruko'—for guests arriving in traditional dress.

Educational Programs and Activities

Several exciting events will take place during the festival:

- Free Guided Tours: Led by experts, including the president of the Japan Plum Association, Mr. Takayuki Otsubo, guests can explore the plum garden while learning about the different species from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM on February 14.
- Craft Workshops: Visitors can partake in creative activities that include making photo frames and other crafts using pruned branches from the plum trees.
- Special Food: Culinary delights such as 'Plum Festival Soba,' which incorporates local plums and kamaboko, will be available to enhance your festival experience.

Getting There: Accessibility and Amenities

Odawara Flower Garden is conveniently located, making it accessible via public transportation from Odawara Station or by car. The parking is free but limited to ensure traffic flow. Visitors are encouraged to come using public transport where possible to alleviate congestion.

Why You Should Go

The Odawara Flower Garden is not just about stunning plums; it's also an experience filled with cultural richness and natural beauty. This winter, don't miss the chance to see tropical plants bloom in the Tropical Dome as well, especially the captivating jade vine expected to bloom in late February.

For more information on events and bloom conditions, visitors can check the official website or follow the garden's social media for real-time updates. Come and indulge in the charm and splendor of the plums at the Odawara Flower Garden!