Plum blossoms at Osaka Castle Park

Osaka Castle Park may be best known for its cherry blossoms, but this historical landmark is also home to a diverse array of plum trees that bloom in winter, just before the sakura season begins. Unlike the park's Nishinomaru Garden, where cherry blossom viewing requires an entry fee, the plum groves are open to the public for free.

The park boasts a total of 1,245 ume (plum) trees across 105 varieties. As they range from early to late bloomers, there’s always something flowering from January through mid-March. 

As of February 17, 94 of the 105 plum varieties have begun to blossom, with around 70 percent of the flowers currently in bloom. Late-flowering varieties such as Bungo and Musashino are expected to open soon and the park will be at its most stunning.

For more information on the garden's plum varieties and their blooming status, check the Osaka Castle Park website.