Kanto
Spring
Soga Plum Grove
Soga Plum Grove is located in Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and is one of the most famous plum blossom viewing spots in the Kanto region. Around 35,000 plum trees, mostly white blossoms, bloom from early February to early March, creating a dreamy white floral landscape with Mount Fuji as a stunning backdrop. Thanks to its long history and scenic beauty, the grove attracts large numbers of tourists and photography enthusiasts every year.
Soga Plum Grove consists of three main areas: Bessho, Nakagawara, and Hara, collectively known as the Soga Three Plum Groves. In addition to plum viewing, visitors can enjoy rich local culture through seasonal events like the Odawara Plum Festival, which features local farm produce markets, umeboshi (pickled plum) tastings, tea ceremonies, and cultural stage performances. It’s a seasonal celebration that blends natural beauty with local charm.
The area around the plum grove also offers a variety of agricultural experiences and sightseeing farms. In spring, visitors can enjoy strawberry picking, while in summer and fall, they can harvest pears and grapes, making it a great family-friendly destination.
Access
- By Train: Take the JR Gotemba Line and get off at Shimo-Soga Station. The grove area is about a 10-minute walk.
- By Private Tour: One-day plum blossom tours can be arranged from Tokyo or Shinjuku, often combined with nearby spots like Hakone and Odawara Castle.
KingTai Travel offers customizable private car services in Kanagawa and Hakone, ideal for families or photography groups.
Plum Blossom Season and Admission
- Best Viewing Time: Early February to early March
- Admission: Free
Whether you’re hoping to capture the stunning scene of plum blossoms set against Mount Fuji or simply want to enjoy the early spring ambiance of Japan, Soga Plum Grove is one of the must-visit destinations for plum viewing.
