Taura Plum Grove
A coastal hillside adorned with over 2,000 plum trees, offering breathtaking spring blossoms and panoramic views of Tokyo Bay.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak plum blossom season
Taura Plum Grove
Best Time
Peak plum blossom season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A coastal hillside adorned with over 2,000 plum trees, offering breathtaking spring blossoms and panoramic views of Tokyo Bay.
"Gorgeous during early spring plum blossom season and Koyo autum season."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike up can be steep; good footwear is essential for enjoying the trails and playground.
🚗 Parking is Tricky
Limited paid parking is available. Consider public transport or parking further away.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Plum Blossom Spectacle
Throughout the grove
Thousands of plum trees burst into vibrant pink and white blooms, painting the coastal slopes in spring.
Panoramic Bay Views
Summit observation deck
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Tokyo Bay, with glimpses of Yokosuka and Tokyo on clear days.
Ninja-Themed Playground
Near the observation deck
A unique obstacle course and zip line area that kids (and adults!) will love.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Blossoms
Navigating to the Grove
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike up can be steep; good footwear is essential for enjoying the trails and playground.
🚗 Parking is Tricky
Limited paid parking is available. Consider public transport or parking further away.
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
With vending machines and spacious bathrooms, it's ideal for a relaxing picnic.
🌸 Check Blossom Forecasts
For the best bloom views, check local forecasts before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike up can be steep; good footwear is essential for enjoying the trails and playground.
🚗 Parking is Tricky
Limited paid parking is available. Consider public transport or parking further away.
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
With vending machines and spacious bathrooms, it's ideal for a relaxing picnic.
🌸 Check Blossom Forecasts
For the best bloom views, check local forecasts before your visit.
🐗 Beware of Wild Boars
Hiking trails behind the grove may have wild boars; be cautious.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Taura Plum Grove for its stunning natural beauty, especially during plum blossom season, and its fantastic panoramic views of Tokyo Bay. The unique ninja playground is a hit with families, and the park offers a peaceful escape with amenities like restrooms and vending machines. Some find parking challenging and note that the grove can get crowded during peak bloom.
"A short hike up to the top of this small mountain. You end up in an open field with a great view of Tokyo Bay where you can see Yokosuka and Tokyo on a nice day.
We went in December so not a lot of people but when it is spring you can tell it will be crowded as a lot of the trees in the hills are cherry blossoms (hence the name).
The walk from the base of the mountain to the top can take about 20-30 mins depending on which route you take. We didn't know the best way at first so we ended up taking the longer way up and then they had maps that showed a shorter way.
There is an observation desk and bunch of tables and seats all around the top and the best part for the kids are the Athletic field where they set up a playground in a line like an obstacle course and have a zip line.
Only problem is there really is no close parking space to park at the base of the mountain. You'll be walking through the neighborhood and there is couple paid spaces. One is with machine and one is you have to call and pay the owner I think. Closer to the train station there are more but unfortunately driving option is quite limited.
Overall, definitely worth checking out and hike the mountain even when there are no cherry blossoms out. Definitely planning to check out when the cherry blossoms are out."
Jonathan Kim
"Playground with several picnic areas. I don't have any God, but I saw several people with their animal."
Ahoefa Adjowa
"Great hike. Gorgeous during early spring plum blossom season and Koyo autum season. Keep going at the top to the observation deck and to the left of that is a ninja park. Theres also picnic areas further back and what looks like camping spaces."
The Juicebox Adventures The_Juicebox_Adventures
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Taura Plum Grove is accessible via public transport. Take the JR Yokosuka Line to Taura Station. From there, it's a walk through the neighborhood to the base of the grove. Driving is an option, but parking is limited and can be paid.
Yes, Taura Plum Grove is located in Yokosuka, which is known for its US military presence and naval base. +1
Yes, Taura Plum Grove is about an hour's train ride from Tokyo, making it a feasible day trip.
There are multiple trails leading up. Some are shorter but steeper, while others are longer. Maps are available to guide you.
While specific bus routes can vary, public transport is generally recommended due to limited parking. Checking local Yokosuka bus schedules is advised.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Taura Plum Grove is a public park and generally does not have an entrance fee, making it a great free attraction.
As a public park, Taura Plum Grove is typically open from morning until evening. However, it's always best to check for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
No advance booking is usually required for Taura Plum Grove as it's a public park. You can visit spontaneously.
The Yokosuka Reggae Bash is an event that has been held in the Yokosuka area, though specific venues can change. For plum blossom season, there aren't typically ticketed events, but the natural beauty is the main draw.
Yes, the park is accessible year-round, offering different natural beauty in each season, from plum blossoms in spring to autumn foliage.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a hike, admire the plum blossoms (in season), take in panoramic views of Tokyo Bay, and explore the unique ninja-themed playground. It's also a great spot for picnics.
Absolutely! The ninja park with its obstacle course and zip line is a huge hit with children. There are also picnic areas and open spaces for them to play.
While famous for its plum blossoms (late Feb-early Mar), the park also features other flowers, including cherry blossoms which bloom later in spring.
Yes, the park is equipped with spacious restrooms and vending machines, making it convenient for visitors.
Some reviews mention people with animals, suggesting pets might be allowed, but it's advisable to check local park regulations for confirmation.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire grove is picturesque during blossom season. The summit offers stunning panoramic shots of the bay, and the ninja playground provides fun, dynamic photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the soft glow of the blossoms or the bay.
Drone usage regulations can vary significantly in Japan, especially near military bases like Yokosuka. It's crucial to check local drone laws and park rules before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and blossom-filled landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or distant subjects on the bay.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, be mindful of any restricted areas, especially those related to the nearby military base.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
Capture the vibrant colors of the blossoms against the backdrop of the sea and sky. The summit offers excellent vantage points for landscape photography, including cityscapes on clear days. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Plum Blossoms
+1While the plum blossoms are the main attraction, the grove also features other flora, including cherry trees that bloom later in spring. This means that depending on your visit timing, you might catch a mix of seasonal flowers. The natural beauty of the grove makes it a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers alike, even outside of peak blossom season.
To fully appreciate the blossoms, consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds. The visual impact of thousands of trees in bloom is truly memorable and a highlight of visiting the Yokosuka area during early spring.
Beyond the Blossoms: Views and Recreation
For families, the grove features a unique and exciting ninja-themed playground. This area includes an obstacle course and a zip line, providing hours of entertainment for children. It's a refreshing change from typical playground equipment and adds an element of adventure to the visit.
Additionally, the park is a great location for picnics, with ample seating and open spaces. The presence of vending machines and spacious restrooms adds to the convenience. For those who enjoy hiking, various trails lead up to and beyond the main grove, offering opportunities for exploration and exercise.
Yokosuka's Unique Atmosphere
The proximity to the US naval base means that the area has a dynamic feel, especially on weekends. Some social media content highlights the lively nightlife and party scene in Yokosuka, drawing comparisons to Los Angeles.
It's also worth noting that the Yokosuka area has a history of both military and civilian life, with some abandoned properties (akiya) being documented.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit