Taura Plum Grove Festival 2027 – Yokosuka, Japan

Overview

The Taura Plum Grove Festival is a cherished annual celebration held at the scenic Taura Plum Grove, a tranquil hillside haven known as the only plum forest on the Miura Peninsula. Spanning approximately 6,000 square meters, this picturesque orchard features over 2,000 red and white plum trees that burst into vibrant color as the winter chill begins to retreat. Recognized as one of the 100 Famous Flower Spots in Kanagawa, the grove transforms into a fragrant, ethereal landscape of soft petals, signaling the gentle arrival of spring to the local community.

The festival serves as a cultural cornerstone for Yokosuka, blending the natural beauty of the blossoms with traditional Japanese community festivities. While the grove remains open for quiet strolls throughout the flowering season, the Former Taura Elementary School serves as the central hub for the main event day. Here, the atmosphere comes alive with communal energy, featuring live stage performances, local artisanal workshops, and a variety of food stalls that bring generations of residents together in a shared appreciation for the season.

Visitors are encouraged to ascend the well-maintained walking paths that wind through the trees, eventually leading to an observation deck that offers panoramic vistas of the city, Yokosuka Port, and the distant Boso Peninsula. Whether you are a photography enthusiast seeking the perfect shot of blossoms against a clear blue sky, or a family looking for a serene outdoor escape, the festival offers an authentic, unhurried experience that highlights the quiet elegance of Japanese nature and tradition.

Event Highlights

• Marvel at the breathtaking display of over 2,000 blooming red and white plum trees nestled within a historic 6,000-square-meter hillside grove.
• Enjoy the main festival day at the Former Taura Elementary School, featuring traditional music, dance performances, and local cultural exhibitions.
• Participate in an interactive stamp rally that guides you through the beautiful grove and surrounding historic landmarks to win local prizes.
• Hike the scenic trail to the summit observation deck for sweeping, unobstructed views of the Miura Peninsula, Tokyo Bay, and the Yokohama skyline.

Why Attend

The Taura Plum Grove Festival is ideal for nature lovers, families, and travelers who appreciate intimate, community-driven cultural events. It offers a rare opportunity to experience the early spring season in a setting that feels worlds away from the busy urban centers of Tokyo and Yokohama, providing a peaceful environment perfect for meditation and appreciation of seasonal beauty.

Attending this festival allows you to support local traditions while exploring a hidden gem of the Kanagawa prefecture. The combination of easy hiking paths, family-friendly activities, and the chance to witness ancient floral customs makes it a rewarding day trip for all ages. You will leave with a deep sense of renewal, refreshed by the sweet fragrance of the blossoms and the warm, welcoming spirit of the Taura neighborhood.

Date & Duration

• Event Date: Early February to Early March 2027
• Event Duration: The groves are open for viewing throughout the month; the main community festivities typically occur on a single designated Sunday in late February.

Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.

Ticket Information

• How Tickets Are Sold: This is a free community event; no tickets or advance reservations are required for entry to the grove or the school venue.
• Admission Type: Free Admission.
• Ticket Pricing: Free Admission.
• Special Seating Options: There is no formal seating available; visitors are encouraged to bring portable mats if planning to enjoy a picnic in the designated grassy areas.
• VIP Options: No VIP packages or reserved areas are offered for this public festival.

Venue / Location

• City and Country: Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan.
• Venue Name: Taura Plum Grove (Ume no Sato) and Former Taura Elementary School.
• Google Maps Address: 92 Tauraizumicho, Yokosuka, Kanagawa 237-0073, Japan.

Contact Information

• Phone Number: +81 046-861-4181 (Taura Administrative Center)
• Official Website: www.taura.yokosuka-kanko.com

Accommodation Options:

For those wishing to stay nearby, Yokosuka City offers a variety of comfortable business hotels situated near major stations like Yokosuka-Chuo and Keikyu Taura. These hotels provide modern amenities and easy access to both the festival grounds and local dining districts, making them an excellent choice for a convenient and stress-free weekend stay.

Alternatively, travelers seeking a more diverse range of luxury and boutique accommodations may prefer to stay in central Yokohama. Located just a short train ride away, Yokohama provides a wealth of waterfront hotels and historic inns, serving as a perfect home base for exploring both the quiet charm of the Taura plum groves and the vibrant energy of the wider Kanagawa region.

Getting There

• Nearest Airport: Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) is approximately 45–60 minutes away via the Keikyu Line.
• Nearest Train/Metro Station: JR Taura Station (JR Yokosuka Line) or Keikyu Taura Station (Keikyu Main Line).
• Bus Routes or Public Transport Options: Local buses run from Keikyu Taura Station toward the Taura Post Office, followed by a 20-minute uphill walk to the grove.
• Parking Availability: There is no dedicated parking for the festival; visitors are strongly advised to use public train and bus transit systems.
• Directions by Car: Accessible via the Yokohama-Yokosuka Road; exit at Asahina IC and follow local signage toward Taura, noting that local roads are narrow and parking is unavailable.

Dining Recommendations

Breakfast Recommendations:

• Bakery cafes near JR Taura Station for fresh melon pan and hot coffee before your hike.
• Local convenience stores (7-Eleven or Lawson) for traditional onigiri and warm tea to enjoy at the grove.
• Neighborhood coffee shops in the Taura district offering simple toast and morning sets.

Lunch Recommendations:

• Food stalls set up at the Former Taura Elementary School during the main festival day serving hot snacks.
• Local ramen shops in the Taura area specializing in rich, soy-based broth noodles.
• Small neighborhood eateries near Keikyu Taura Station serving hearty Japanese set meals (teishoku).

Dinner Recommendations:

• Izakaya establishments near Yokosuka-Chuo Station for grilled yakitori and seasonal local seafood.
• Casual curry restaurants in Yokosuka, famous for the city’s historic connection to Japanese naval curry.
• Traditional sushi bars offering fresh catch from the nearby Sagami Bay waters.

Local Specialties to Try:

• Plum-flavored sweets and candies sold by local vendors during the festival season.
• Yokosuka Navy Curry, a mild and comforting regional staple with deep historical roots.
• Fresh seasonal vegetables from Miura Peninsula farmers markets often found at local food stalls.

What is this event?

The Taura Plum Grove Festival is an annual spring celebration honoring the blooming of over 2,000 plum trees in Yokosuka. It serves as a peaceful nature retreat where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the arrival of the new season.

The event bridges nature and culture, with the grove providing a serene walking environment and the local elementary school hosting a vibrant community fair. It is a time for reflection, renewal, and family-oriented outdoor recreation.

Why is it popular?

The festival is beloved for being the only dedicated plum grove on the Miura Peninsula, making it a unique destination for flower enthusiasts. Its intimate, non-commercial atmosphere offers a refreshing contrast to the crowded cherry blossom sites found elsewhere in Japan.

Visitors are drawn to the combination of healthy outdoor exercise through the hillside trails and the cultural authenticity of the main event day. The panoramic views from the summit add a spectacular visual reward to the experience.

Tips before you go

• Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes, as the path to the grove and the observation deck involves slopes and stairs.
• Check the local bloom forecast on the Yokosuka City Tourism website before traveling to ensure the trees are at their peak.
• Carry a light jacket, as the hilltop location can be quite breezy and cool even on sunny February days.
• Bring a camera and a small mat if you wish to enjoy a picnic amidst the blossoms in the designated lawn areas.
• Keep Japanese Yen in cash for purchasing snacks or drinks from the festival vendors, as credit cards are not widely accepted.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Plan your visit for a weekday if you prefer a quiet, meditative experience, or a weekend if you wish to enjoy the main stage festivities.
• Allow at least two to three hours to comfortably explore the full extent of the grove and walk up to the observation deck.
• Utilize the public restrooms located at the entrance of the park, as there are limited facilities once you begin the trail.
• Respect the natural environment by staying on the marked walking paths and disposing of all trash in provided receptacles or taking it with you.
• Take time to visit the small Dairokuten Shrine located along the hiking path for a moment of quiet cultural appreciation.
• Combine your trip with a visit to the nearby Yokosuka Port or Verny Park to make the most of your day in the city.

Attendee Experiences

• The fragrance of thousands of plum blossoms in the cool mountain air is absolutely revitalizing.
• It is a hidden gem that feels completely authentic, far away from the typical tourist trails.
• The hike to the top is worth every step for the incredible view of the blue bay below.

Video

Location

FAQ