
Akima Plum Grove
A hillside adorned with thousands of red and white plum trees, offering a breathtaking early spring floral spectacle and local festival delights.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak plum blossom season

Akima Plum Grove
Best Time
Peak plum blossom season

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hillside adorned with thousands of red and white plum trees, offering a breathtaking early spring floral spectacle and local festival delights.
"The plum blossoms are pretty, but we couldn’t stop because there was no parking spot. Find a parking spot and go hiking is advisable."

🎯 Check Bloom Forecasts
Plum blossom timing varies yearly. Check local reports for peak bloom dates before you go!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on hillsides. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring the grove.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sea of Red and White Blooms
Hillside
Thousands of plum trees burst into vibrant red and white flowers, creating a breathtaking autumn spectacle.

Autumn Plum Festival
Akima Plum Grove
Experience local culture with food stalls and unique plum-based specialties during the annual festival.

Uguisu Birdsong
Akima Plum Grove
Listen for the distinctive song of the Japanese bush warbler, a sign of spring's arrival.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Plum Blossoms
Navigating Parking and Paths
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Bloom Forecasts
Plum blossom timing varies yearly. Check local reports for peak bloom dates before you go!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on hillsides. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring the grove.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Paid parking at the base, but free roadside parking is available further up.
🛍️ Sample Local Treats
Don't miss plum cider and other local specialties at the stalls.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Bloom Forecasts
Plum blossom timing varies yearly. Check local reports for peak bloom dates before you go!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on hillsides. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring the grove.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Paid parking at the base, but free roadside parking is available further up.
🛍️ Sample Local Treats
Don't miss plum cider and other local specialties at the stalls.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Akima Plum Grove for its stunning early spring plum blossoms, offering a beautiful alternative to cherry blossom viewing. The local plum cider and festival atmosphere are also highlights. However, some find the drive long for the experience, and parking can be a challenge during peak times.
"This week, the central region of main island, including this area, has experienced both early summer-like warm day and significant snowfall. Here in Akima, the plum blossoms are at their peak, and they are expected to gradually reach full bloom by the end of March.
21st March."
iTokyoTravel-iTokyoDrive IceSoda T.-
"We visited Akima Bairin on March 9th 2025. These pictures sky was blue, the sun was shining brightly, but the weather was still too cold, so the plum trees were not yet all fully bloomed. The pink ones bloomed faster than the white ones. As we went downhill, on the way home, the white plum blossoms were fully bloomed. They were pretty. However, we couldn’t stop because there was no parking spot. Find a parking spot and go hiking is advisable. It’s nice to see beautiful scenery."
edelweiss47 sensei
"On Friday, March 21st, just before the cherry blossoms begin to bloom in Tokyo and other areas, I came to Akima Plum Grove (Akima Bairin 秋間梅林) here in Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture, to see the plum blossoms, which bloom a little earlier than the cherry blossoms.
The plum trees here are still only about 50% in bloom, but they are expected to reach full bloom later this month.
A Japanese bush warbler (Uguisu 鶯) was singing."
iTokyo Travel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Akima Plum Grove is located in Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture. While specific public transport details are scarce, driving is the most common method. Visitors often mention finding parking along the roadside after driving a bit up the hill, suggesting it's accessible by car.
Information on direct public transport to Akima Plum Grove is limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car for easier access and flexibility in exploring the area.
If you don't have a car, consider looking into local bus routes that might serve Annaka City and then potentially a taxi for the final leg to the grove. Researching local Gunma transport options in advance is advised.
While specific GPS coordinates are best, travelers mention driving up the hill to find parking. It's advisable to use a navigation app and search for 'Akima Bairin' or 'Akima Plum Grove' for precise directions.
Travel times will vary greatly depending on your starting point in Japan. From Tokyo, it's a significant drive, so planning a full day trip or an overnight stay in Gunma Prefecture is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the grove itself is a natural hillside, there might be associated costs for parking. One review mentions a ¥300 parking fee at the base, but free roadside parking is available further up.
As a natural hillside with trees, Akima Plum Grove doesn't have strict opening hours. However, the best viewing times are during daylight hours, especially when the plum blossoms are in bloom.
The plum blossoms typically bloom earlier than cherry blossoms, usually from early March to late March. Peak bloom can vary, so checking local forecasts is recommended.
No advance booking is required for Akima Plum Grove. It's a natural attraction, and entry is generally free. Parking fees may apply depending on where you park.
Yes, there's an autumn festival associated with the plum grove, which often features local food specialties like plum cider. The timing of this festival aligns with the plum blossom season.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire hillside covered in plum trees offers stunning photo opportunities. Look for vantage points that capture the vastness of the grove, especially during sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views of the plum trees. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating individual blossoms or capturing wildlife like the Japanese bush warbler.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh and wash out colors.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, always be respectful of other visitors and avoid blocking paths or private areas if any are present.
Try to capture the contrast between the red and white plum blossoms, the singing Japanese bush warbler if you're lucky, and the local food stalls during the festival.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
During the plum blossom season and festival, you can find local specialties made from plums, such as plum cider. There are also stores and stalls offering food and ice cream.
While there are some stores and stalls within the grove area, for a wider selection of dining options, you might need to travel back towards Annaka City.
Picnicking is generally allowed in natural areas. However, it's always good practice to check for any specific local regulations and to clean up after yourself.
Plum cider is a highly recommended local specialty. You might also find other plum-infused treats and local snacks.
Food options at local stalls can vary. It's best to inquire directly at the stalls about ingredients if you have specific dietary needs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring a stroller or carrier for very young children if they can't walk long distances. Pack snacks and drinks, though local options are available. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain. The visual spectacle of the blossoms can be captivating for all ages.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Recommendations: Consider arriving early to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. The 1.5-2km walking paths are ideal for a moderate hike. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning floral landscapes. The opportunity to hear the Uguisu bird adds a unique auditory element to your solo exploration.
📸 Photographers
Photography tips: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the grove and a telephoto lens for close-ups of individual blossoms or the Uguisu bird. Experiment with different angles and perspectives from the walking paths. The festival stalls can also provide interesting foreground elements for your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Plum Blossoms
While the exact timing of peak bloom can fluctuate year to year due to weather patterns, early to mid-March is generally the prime time to visit. Some reviews mention that pink plum blossoms tend to bloom faster than the white ones. It's advisable to check local bloom forecasts closer to your travel dates to ensure you catch the grove at its most vibrant. The presence of the Japanese bush warbler (Uguisu) singing is also a charming indicator of the season's change.
Navigating Your Visit: Parking and Trails
Comfortable footwear is essential, as you'll be traversing hillsides. The walking paths are designed to allow visitors to experience the beauty of the plum trees up close. Some reviews suggest that as you go downhill, you might find fully bloomed white plum blossoms, indicating that different areas might have slightly varied blooming schedules. Take your time to wander and discover the best viewpoints.
Local Flavors and Festival Delights
These stalls offer a chance to sample unique regional products and enjoy a taste of local life. Some reviews mention ice cream and other local foods being available. It's a great way to enhance your experience and support local vendors while enjoying the natural beauty of the grove.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit