Umeboshi

Plum Blossoms in Minabe: Announcing the End of Winter

When you think of a trip to Kumano, you might picture lush green ancient trails and waterfalls. But in winter, the Kii Peninsula also offers scenes of hills blanketed in white and faintly pink blossoms. Nanbu Bairin in Minabe, Wakayama—famous as a plum-producing region—is one of the most iconic of these spots. As a winter travel destination that brings the earliest hints of spring during a time when the cold still lingers, it is beloved by locals as well.

The best viewing time varies from year to year, but blossoms typically begin to open around mid-January and reach their peak around February. Since timing changes with temperature and the progress of blooming, it's a good idea to check the latest bloom information before setting off.

Tips for Enjoying the "Fragrance" of Plum Blossoms

The charm of Nanbu Bairin is not just visual. On a calm, windless day, as you walk along the slopes, a soft, sweet, and pure fragrance drifts through the air. To enjoy this fragrance to the fullest, keep the following in mind:

How to Find Photo Spots and Tips for Taking Pictures

The plum grove has rolling, uneven terrain, so the scenery changes with every step. For photography enthusiasts, here are some perspectives to try.

"Sweeping Blossoms" from a Higher Vantage Point

Looking down from a slightly elevated spot, the entire slope appears hazy white, conveying the vast scale of the plum grove. On sunny days, the contrast with the blue sky in the background is striking.

"Blue Sky and Blossoms" Framed Through Branches

Shooting from a low angle, with the sky visible through the branches, brings out the translucent quality of the petals. On cloudy days, soft light captures the color of the blossoms beautifully.

Close-Ups and Tiny Visitors

Even with a smartphone, moving in close to a blossom and blurring the background can produce an impressive shot. If you're lucky, you may encounter a Japanese white-eye (mejiro) seeking nectar from the flowers. That said, please don't get too close to the birds or branches—watch quietly from a distance.

What to Wear and Bring for a Comfortable Winter Trip

Mornings and evenings during plum season can still be quite cold. It's wise to bring comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing you can adjust. Since some paths are unpaved, sturdy shoes like sneakers or better are recommended. Gloves, hand warmers, and a drink will also help you take your time taking photos.

Savoring Flavors Unique to the Town of Plums

Minabe is the home of the Nanko ume, famed as a top-quality umeboshi (pickled plum). After walking through the plum grove, searching for plum-based foods and souvenirs is another highlight of the trip. Umeboshi, plum juice, and other flavors rooted in the town's daily life make wonderful souvenirs.

Connecting Your Trip to Kumano and Shirahama

Minabe lies along the route to Tanabe, Shirahama, and further on toward the Kumano region. After enjoying the blossoms and fragrance at the plum grove, you can warm up slowly in a hot spring, and the next day venture out to the ancient trails or coastline—this kind of winter travel itinerary is entirely possible.

That said, the peak plum-viewing season tends to draw large crowds. Expect congestion on roads and in parking lots, so plan an itinerary with plenty of time to spare. For details on opening hours, events, and traffic restrictions, be sure to check official tourism information in advance.

The scenery of fragrance and light, something only the cold season can offer—on your way to Kumano, be sure to stop by the town of plums.

Image: 梅干し (via (公社)和歌山県観光連盟)