Thank you for choosing Tokyo Free Walking Tour in Asakusa on February 12. We were delighted to have six people from America, Canada and Japan. It was unusually warm weather in February and we hope you enjoyed walking with us. As mentioned, the photos we took during the tour are posted as follows.
Yushima Tenjin near Ueno Shinobazu Pond has been loved by people from the Edo period(1603-1868) as one of the best plum blossom viewing spots in Tokyo. Plum blossoms bloom in winter and it’s time for spring to come after a harsh, cold winter.
The flowers have just started to bloom and they will be in a full bloom in a week or so. Currently, the plum Blossom Festival is being held from 8th February to 8th March in the shrine grounds. Visitors can experience exciting events during the weekends and holidays of the festival period. About 300 gorgeous plum trees will amaze you.
The shrine is said to be a historical shrine which was established in 458 and is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a famous Japanese scholar, a poet and a politician of the Heian Period(794-1180). So, the shrine is popular among students who want to pass the entrance exams. Now it’s time for entrance exams in Japan and abundant votive tablets written by the students are hung on the racks praying for success.
The Japanese plum trees bloom in winter earlier than cherry blossoms in spring and offer white and pink flowers. They bloom fully for several weeks compared with cherry blossoms for only a week or so. Plum trees have pleasant scents and their fruits are edible. They are used for pickles or wine.
Yushima Tenjin is a symbol of natural beauty and learning. Exploring the grounds offers unique experience into Japanese nature, culture and tradition. The shrine is close to Ueno Park Shinobazu Pond. The nearest station is Yushima of the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line or Ueno Hirokoji of the Ginza Line(fourth stop from Asakusa).
Thank you for spending your valuable time with us and we look forward to seeing you on other tours in the future.
(Yoshi)