Yokohama’s “Phantom” Plum Grove Blooms Anew: The Sugita Plum Festival Invites You to a Historical Spectacle
Yokohama’s Isogo Ward is set to host the 5th annual Sugita Plum Festival on February 14-15, 2026, at Gozu-san Myōhōji Temple. This event is a heartfelt endeavor by the Sugita Plum Town Executive Committee to revive the splendor of the “phantom” Sugita Plum Grove, a place once renowned as the Kanto region’s most magnificent plum blossom viewing destination.
A Journey Through Time: The Legacy of Sugita Plum Grove
Once upon a time, during the Edo period, the Sugita area of Yokohama was blanketed by over 36,000 plum trees, their blossoms painting a breathtaking landscape that attracted poets, artists, and even imperial family members. This was the legendary Sugita Plum Grove, a cultural gem. However, the passage of time, marked by salt damage and urban development in the Showa era, led to its gradual disappearance, earning it the poignant title of the “phantom plum grove.”
Today, the Myōhōji Temple, which historically stood at the heart of this plum paradise, becomes the stage for its revival. Visitors will be greeted by approximately 100 plum trees, including the revered “Shōsui Plum,” a weeping plum variety admired by Empresses Eishō and Shōken during the Meiji era. For a truly immersive experience, a mountaintop spot offering panoramic views of Tokyo Bay—a vista famously captured in Utagawa Hiroshige’s ukiyo-e print, “Plum Grove in Sugita, Musashi Province”—will be specially opened. This allows guests to literally step into a historical artwork, experiencing the same serene beauty that inspired generations.
A Feast for the Senses: Culture, Performance, and Culinary Delights
The festival’s main stage in front of the temple’s main hall will buzz with a vibrant array of performances. The “Yokohama Geisha Group” will transport audiences to the Edo and early Showa eras with their elegant songs and dances, recreating the charm of Isogo’s historic geisha district. The ancient Shinto ritual dance, Kagura, will offer a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual heritage, while the thunderous rhythm of 30 Japanese drums promises an exhilarating spectacle. Adding a contemporary Yokohama flair, local reggae singer Chozen Lee will deliver a special live performance. Beyond the main stage, local elementary and junior high school wind ensembles will showcase their talents, and an exhibition corner will delve into the rich history of the Sugita Plum Grove. One visitor enthusiastically shared, “The blend of traditional and modern performances, all against the backdrop of these beautiful blossoms, is truly captivating! It’s an experience that speaks to the soul of Yokohama.”
Beyond the visual and auditory delights, the festival caters to all tastes. A dedicated food court will feature over ten food trucks and stalls, offering a diverse culinary experience. Visitors can enjoy traditional tea ceremony experiences (o-techa) and savor unique juices and collaboration products made from the legendary Sugita plum. Families with children will find plenty to enjoy, including a “Sugita Plum Quiz Rally” and a charming picture-story show called “The Tale of the Plum Grove.”
Embracing Global Visitors and Local Charm
To ensure a welcoming experience for international guests and foreign residents, the stage presentations will be conducted in both Japanese and English, with English guides provided by the Kanagawa Volunteer Interpreters Group (KSGG). The festival is not just confined to the temple grounds; it extends its reach throughout the community.
From January 24 to February 28, the Sugita Shopping District Association will distribute a “Plum Town MAP,” guiding visitors to 20 participating stores offering unique plum-themed products and services. Additionally, Keikyu Department Store at Kamiooka Station will host a “Plum Fair” from February 5 to 11. East Japan Railway Company (JR East) will also contribute to the regional celebration with a “Plum-Scented Town Walk: Shinsugita Seaside Hike” as part of its “Station Hike” program, running from February 1 to 28. These initiatives collectively transform the entire region into “Plum Town Sugita.”
A Future Blooming with Heritage
The Sugita Plum Festival, which began with online support from the Japan Tourism Agency in 2022 and saw its first on-site event in a century in 2023, has grown significantly. Now independently organized, it welcomed over 6,800 visitors last year, demonstrating its increasing popularity and the community’s dedication to preserving its heritage. This 5th edition marks a significant milestone, solidifying its place as a cherished annual event.
This festival is more than just a celebration of plum blossoms; it’s a testament to the enduring power of community spirit and cultural preservation. For global readers, it offers a unique window into Japan’s deep appreciation for nature’s fleeting beauty and the historical narratives woven into its landscapes. As the Sugita Plum Festival continues to bloom, it promises to inspire future generations and share the charm of “Plum Town Sugita” with the world, fostering a deeper understanding of Japanese culture abroad.
For more details, please visit the official website:
Event Overview:
-
Date: February 14 (Saturday) – 15 (Sunday), 2026
-
Main Venue: Gozusan Myōhōji Temple, 5-3-15 Sugita, Isogo-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa Prefecture
-
Access: 10-minute walk from Sugita Station (Keikyu Line) or JR Shin-Sugita Station
-
Organizer: Sugita Plum Town Executive Committee
