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Looking for an exciting alternative to travel from Kyushu to Osaka or vice versa? Look no further than the amazing Sunflower overnight ferry! Get ready for an unforgettable journey! The Sunflower Ferry I will discuss departs overnight from Beppu to Osaka or Osaka to Beppu. This overnight journey lasting 12 hours offers a convenient transportation option between the two points. In this article, I will outline the ferry's features, share our personal experience, and provide helpful tips and information for booking. Details about the Sunflower Ferry Ship To begin, let's delve into some information about this vessel. This ship, known as the Sunflower Kurenai or Sunflower Murasaki, is relatively new and has a capacity of 716 passengers, making it quite spacious. As it is an overnight journey, boarding will take place in the afternoon around 6 PM and you will reach your destination at approximately 6 AM the next morning. Consequently, this cruise offers a variety of accommodation options for overnight stays. The cabins include suites, deluxe and superior rooms, private bedrooms, as well as shared rooms with a capsule-like atmosphere. Certain cabin categories provide the choice between Western or Japanese design. Make sure to check out all the cabin details on their website before booking so that you are better informed about their room types. Prices are subject to variation based on the room type selected and whether it is peak or off season. Booking Reservations can be scheduled up to three months in advance of the departure date through their website booking system or by email. Reservations can be made for either a one way journey or a round trip. Passengers have the option to board on foot, or with a motorbike or car. Pets are permitted if they are kept in a cage or crate. Cancellations are accepted up to 7 days before departure for a fee of ¥200. If canceled after that, a percentage of the fare will be charged based on the cancellation date. While booking online, we encountered an issue where our names had to be written in hiragana instead of katakana. I simply searched for our names in hiragana on a google search and copied and pasted it. Finally, you need to book or reserve first, and then you will receive a separate email to complete the payment. If payment is not made within three days of the initial online reservation, it will be canceled. So make sure you follow this two-step process. To get a more thorough and visual understanding of booking and this ship, we recommend watching our video . Pricing for Overnight Stay For the two of us, we spent ¥29,220 to get on board and enjoy a semi-private room. When you take into account that a one-way trip on the shinkansen lasts about 3.5 hours and costs around ¥18,000 yen per person, and that you also get one night of accommodation, this offer seems great! If you already have the JR Pass, it will be more cost-effective to opt for the bullet train. The choice ultimately depends on your budget, available time, and personal preference. Boarding To board the ship, you need to go to the designated terminal for check-in. The ferry terminal in Beppu is known as Beppu Kanko-ko, while in Osaka it is either Sunflower Terminal or Terminal 1 in ATC ITM Building. In our situation, we checked in at the Beppu Kanko-ko terminal. The check-in process was efficient and quick. Having made our reservation online two months in advance, we simply presented our booking number and ID. Then, we received a paper with a QR code for room access, and stood in a line to board. Simple! Restrooms, charging stations, bike rentals, vending machines, lockers, a pet and smoking area, and a display area were among the features found in the waiting lobby. Boarding process starts an hour before departure. Just so you know: Beppu is renowned as one of Japan's top hot spring destinations. Because the ferry wasn't departing until 6:45 pm or 18:45, we opted to get to Beppu early and indulge in a visit to one of their onsens, Hyotan Onsen . It was truly incredible and definitely recommended! Check out this article for more details. Inside the Sunflower Ferry Get ready for an exciting experience on board! Once you step out of the elevator, you'll find yourself on the ship's main floor, the vibrant heart of the vessel situated on the 6th floor. This area doubles as a lobby and offers many amenities. The Sunflower Ferry's Main Floor: Shop: Souvenirs, gifts, snacks, toiletries, and medicine Delicious Buffet Restaurant: Dinner and early breakfast are available with free refills of soda, coffee, and tea Seating Area: Cozy large area with interactive information screens Additional Onboard Amenities on the Ferry: Spa: Enjoy the panoramic public bath until 11 pm and from 5:15 am until arrival Spa Essentials: Small towel, body shampoo, conditioner, and shampoo provided Various vending machines are available offering instant ramen, snacks, drinks, ice creams, and even beer. Additionally, refrigerated lockers are provided for storing perishable items that you wish to keep fresh. Restrooms are located on each floor. They had many vanity areas, even changing rooms. After settling into their rooms, most guests headed to the buffet to eat since it is only available for three hours. Many wanted a table by the window to watch the boat leave. Alternatively, you could choose to go outside and wave goodbye to the staff. The buffet offered a wide variety of delicious options. I suggest having dinner there; we missed breakfast, it was just too early for us. The spa was situated on the 7th floor. Our room offered a small towel along with amenities like slippers, a toothbrush, and toothpaste. The hot bath had a sea view, but since it was pitch black outside and the windows were fogged up, the view was not clear. Perhaps the early morning would provide a better view. Additionally, there were massage chairs on this floor, which I highly recommend trying after visiting the spa. Our room was situated on the 6th floor and was a semi-private room within a larger area containing four similar rooms. Access to this larger room was restricted to those with a QR code, and once inside, guests could locate their specific room. The individual rooms could only be locked from the inside, meaning they would remain open when unoccupied. To address this, lockers were provided throughout the ship for guests to store their belongings. Due to limited space in the room, large luggage could be stored in the hallways using locker straps, offering a convenient solution while still ensuring easy access throughout the ship. If you are looking for suggestions on where to stay before sailing, be sure to read this blog post. Conclusion Beppu and the ferry were absolutely amazing and a highlight of our trip! What an incredible way to journey to Osaka! It wasn't just a means of transportation from point A to point B - it was a unique hotel experience and an adventure we'll never forget. Totally worth it! Helpful Link: https://www.ferry-sunflower.co.jp/en/route/osaka-beppu/cabin/

Do you have a passion for coffee, particularly from Starbucks? Are you a fan of coffee-based liquors and cocktails, as well as freshly baked bread and desserts? Do you enjoy indulging in a variety of teas? If you said yes to any of those questions, then you're in for a treat because the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Tokyo is the perfect spot for you! Providing a unique coffee experience unlike any other, it is a must-visit for all coffee lovers. You are bound to enjoy your time there, regardless of whether you are a devoted coffee drinker or not. Location The Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Tokyo is situated near Shibuya. To get there, simply take the Toyoko Line from Shibuya station to Naka-Meguro Station in Meguro City, which is just a 3-minute ride. From Naka-Meguro Station, it's a straightforward 12-minute walk to reach the Roastery. The building is located next to a Don Quijote store and may appear unassuming from the outside, but the real surprise lies within. Inside Upon entering this four-story building, you will be welcomed by the delightful scent of freshly brewed coffee and the sight of skilled baristas preparing specialty beverages. The staff will greet you as you notice the gift shop right at the entrance, offering a diverse selection of exclusive Starbucks Reserve Tokyo merchandise. Additionally, there is a section where you can purchase a bag of freshly roasted coffee beans directly from the Coffee Scoop Bar. First floor The menu offers a diverse selection of unique coffees sourced globally, each with its own distinctive flavor profile. Select your preferred coffee beans. Additionally, you can choose the brewing method that complements your chosen coffee beans. Coffee flights are also available for you to enjoy. Apart from coffee, you will see an authentic Italian bakery where you can find a variety of artisanal breads, pastries, and desserts to accompany your beverage. Treat yourself to a delicious Tiramisu or focaccia pizza. They do offer some of the items in the bakery on the other floors. Second Floor The second floor is designated for Teavana's tea experience, where the focus is on Japanese tea culture, using premium ingredients and creative brewing techniques. This space stands out due to distinctive features like a 3D printed bar, origami ceilings, and a teacup wall. Third floor At our favorite and recommended floor, you can enjoy the Arriviamo Bar, where a blend of coffee, tea, and spirits results in unique cocktails and extraordinary coffee concoctions. If there are open seats, feel free to sit at the elegant wooden bar and witness the preparation of your coffee or cocktail right before your eyes. Additionally, outdoor balcony seating is available. Tip: Try the New Tokyo Fashion - whiskey & cold brew garnished with a sakura leaf. Yes! Fourth floor There is an extra seating area in this space that can serve as an event space or lounge.  Pricing The exceptional quality of service justifies the cost. Coffees and teas are priced at approximately 1,000 yen or less, equivalent to $7. Food items range from $3 to $7, while alcoholic beverages are priced at $15. Plan to spend between $60 to $100 for two people to enjoy coffee or tea, a cocktail, a tasty treat, and perhaps a souvenir. FYI: I found other Starbucks Reserve Bar locations in Japan! They are a much smaller scale version of the Roastery but are a great alternative if you are closer to those locations.  Conclusion Whether you prefer a classic espresso, a handcrafted latte, or tea you're sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. This Roastery offers a one-of-a-kind atmosphere and an immersive experience that demonstrates their "love affair with coffee knows no bounds". Everything was so thoughtfully designed and its truly impressive.  So why not add this to your Tokyo itinerary? It's a coffee experience you won't forget.

Pokemon Cafe Iced Latte If you're a Pokemon fan of any age, you have to check out the Pokemon Cafe - it's one of the coolest experiences you can have! Whether you are just a casual observer or a devoted fan, this cafe will be a great experience. In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to this enchanting spot. What Makes the Pokémon Cafe Unique? The Pokemon Cafe is not just any themed eatery; it’s a celebration of the cherished Pokemon universe. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be surrounded by an immersive ambiance filled with colorful decor & plush toys. The friendly staff enhances the magic, their enthusiasm adds to the atmosphere, making sure that guests feel fully engaged with the world of Pokemon. The immersive decor brings the Pokemon world to life. Pokemon Cafe Menu: Experience a Foodie’s Paradise One of the most exciting aspects of the Pokemon Cafe is its menu. Expect adorable dishes designed to mirror various Pokemon. Among the fan favorites are the Pikachu-themed curry, which features bright yellow rice shaped like Pikachu and a napping Snorlax's Lunch Plate. The flavors are just as impressive as the presentation. Each meal is crafted with care, ensuring every bite is delightful. Also, the cafe offers refreshing drinks that are just as creatively designed as the food. A drink like the Pikachu Ice Cream Lemon Float is a great way to complement your meal. Expect to spend about 2,500 yen to 5,000 yen per person. Super cute Pikachu-themed dish that tastes absolutely delicious! Reservations in Tokyo, Japan To ensure a smooth visit to the Pokemon Cafe, making a reservation is crucial. This popular spot tends to be busy, especially on weekends, with many visitors eager to experience the magic. Reservations can be made online 31 days in advance. When booking, you can select from specific time slots. Each table is usually allocated a two-hour window. Some people do struggle to make reservations. We recommend watching our YouTube video for tips on securing a dinner booking just before your trip. Interesting Fact: There are only two Pokemon cafes in the world, one in Tokyo and the other in Osaka, making this truly an exclusive Japan experience. What to Expect During Your Visit After checking in with your email reservation number, you’ll be guided to your table. The cafe has an electronic menu system, allowing you to browse options at your own pace. Digital Menu at Pokemon Cafe and Themed Food Items Throughout your meal, be prepared for some delightful surprises. Character mascots make special appearances, creating memorable moments that enhance the overall dining experience. We had the pleasure of experiencing pastry chef Pikachu and Gengar . Take time to soak in the surroundings. The decor has numerous photo opportunities, from vibrant artwork to plush Pokemon scattered throughout. Bringing Home Pokemon Memories: Merchandise The Pokemon Cafe offers more than tasty food; it’s also a treasure trove of exclusive merchandise! After your meal, by the checkout, browse through collectible items and adorable plush toys that serve as delightful mementos of your visit. These items capture the essence of both the cafe and the Pokemon characters, making them ideal souvenirs. You can budget around 1,000 to 3,000 yen to bring home a piece of the experience. Tip: If you wanna check out the Pokemon Center Tokyo DX next to the cafe and grab some more cool Pokemon stuff, it's best to get there early or book an early time slot! Pokemon Center Tokyo DX in Tokyo, Japan by cafe Conclusion The Pokemon Cafe experience in Tokyo, Japan is a paradise for fans wanting to dine in the whimsical world of Pokemon. I hope you can experience this unique experience in the heart of Tokyo!

So, for the last few years, we've been all about Japan for our trips. Picking where to stay has been a big deal for us, and we've been pretty thorough about it. I want to tell you all about the spots we've stayed at while exploring Japan, why we picked them, and what we thought of them. Hopefully, our experiences can give you some good tips and ideas too. Tokyo Hotels & Hostels Tosei Hotel Cocone Ueno Okachimachi Tosei Hotel Cocone Ueno Tokyo, Japan Location:  Ueno - Haneda Airport - 40 min Train Ride, Narita Airport - 1hr Train Ride Ameyoko Shopping District - 3 min walk Ueno-hirokoji Station - 2 min walk Okachimachi Station - 2 min walk Ueno-okachimachi Station - 3 min walk Reasons for selecting this hotel:  Centrally Located in Tokyo & Discounted Price for Long Stay Impressions: The place we stayed at in central Tokyo was super convenient, with lots of train lines close by. There were plenty of affordable places to eat and shop around the area. We had a great time walking to Akihabara, sometimes hopping off at the station and enjoying a leisurely stroll back to the hotel. Our room was always clean and tidy, with daily cleaning and fresh water provided. Plus, they had handy facilities like a washer and dryer in the lobby. We really enjoyed our twelve-night stay there! Tokyo Guest House Itabashijuku - Hostel Tokyo Guest House Itabashijuku Hostel Beds Location:  Itabashi City Near Ikebukuro - Haneda Airport - 1hr 10mins Train Ride, NaritaAirport - 1hr 20mins Train Ride Ikebukuro Station 11 min Train Ride Naka-Itabashi Station - 3 min walk Tokiwadai Station - 11 min walk Oyama Station - 13 min walk Reasons for selecting this hotel:  Cheap Last Minute Stay by Ikebukuro Impressions: This hostel near Ikebukuro has affordable local shops nearby and offers clean, secure common areas. Facilities like a fridge and small kitchen are available for all guests. Note that unlike most hostels, facilities are shared by both genders, including bathrooms. Not suitable for those averse to shared spaces or with lots of luggage. Ideal for budget-conscious backpackers seeking a non-touristy gem in Tokyo. Nearby you can also see a train passing on the street. Street Train Passing at Night Yokohama Hotels InterContinental Yokohama Grand, an IHG Hotel InterContinental Yokohama Grand Exterior View Location:   Haneda Airport - 45 min Train Ride, Cup Noodles Musuem - 10 min walk Minatomirai Station - 6 min walk Sakuragicho Station - 12 min walk Bashamichi Station - 14 min walk Reasons for selecting this hotel:  Visiting Yokohama Gundam & IHG Hotel Impressions: The setting is breathtaking and conveniently near the sights we wanted to see. Situated in a central, easily walkable zone in Yokohama. The rooms were magnificent and generously sized. We reserved a room overlooking the harbor, providing a stunning view of the bay's sunrise and sunset. On another occasion, we stayed in a room with a city view showcasing the iconic Yokohama Ferris Wheel, Cosmo Clock 21. The hotel is huge and provides upscale amenities, definitely catering to a more high-end clientele. Sunrise from Hotel Room Window Hotel Edit Yokohama Hotel Edit Exterior View Location: Haneda Airport - 40 min Train Ride, Landmark Tower - 10 min walk Bashamichi Station - 5 min walk Kannai Station - 5 min walk Sakuragicho Station - 5 min walk Reasons for selecting this hotel: Visiting Yokohama Gundam & Reasonable Price Impressions: The location is close to the attractions we were visiting, and the surrounding area was nice. The room was slightly older than we had anticipated, but our two-night stay was satisfactory overall. There were plenty of basic amenities available. The only drawback was that, despite being close to several stations, the area was a bit challenging to navigate with luggage at night due to the need to climb stairs to cross streets and the closure of elevators in shopping centers. Osaka Holiday Inn Express Osaka City Centre - Midosuji, an IHG Hotel Holiday Inn Express Osaka City Centre - Midosuji Exterior View Location:   Itami Airport - 45 min Train Ride, Dotonbori - 20 min walk Hommachi Station - 3 min walk Shinsaibashi Station - 7 min walk Sakaisuji-hommachi Station - 9 min walk Reasons for selecting this hotel:  Near Nipponbashi Denden Town & IHG Hotel Impression: A convenient 4-night stay at a stylish art deco hotel in Minami, Osaka, includes complimentary breakfast. Despite the daily breakfast queue, it moved fast and helped us save money. The lobby offers numerous complimentary amenities, as well as some available for an additional fee. The front desk staff were friendly and accommodating, while the rooms were both clean and contemporary. The surrounding area has several luxury car dealerships and upscale shops. Ferrari Car Dealership On Street Fukukoka Hotel ANA Crowne Plaza Fukuoka, an IHG Hotel Ana Crowne Plaza Fukuoka Exterior Location:   Fukuoka Airport - 13 min Train Ride, Canal City Hakata - 9 min walk Hakata Station - 4 min walk Reasons for selecting this hotel:  Visiting RX-93ff Gundam & IHG Hotel Impression: The guest services at this hotel are probably the best we've ever had. It's super close to the airport and the huge Hakata Station, and the hotel has a really fancy entrance and vibe. The rooms might be a bit old-school, but they're big, clean, and comfy. Plus, there's a fancy bar where you can enjoy a late-night cocktail. We really enjoyed our stay and definitely stay again when in the area. RX-93ff Gundam outside of Mall Conclusion As you can see when we plan our trip, we make sure to choose hotels near cool spots or transportation hubs to make it easier for us to explore and save time. By thinking about what we like, our budget, and how we will be getting around, we can find the perfect place to stay. Hope you found our list of hotels we've stayed at before helpful!

Beppu, located on Japan's scenic Kyushu island, is a haven of stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. Renowned as one of Japan’s top spa destinations, Beppu not only offers breathtaking views but also invites relaxation in its numerous hot springs. Among the various choices, Hyotan Onsen was our choice due to its outstanding private onsens that guarantee a unique and relaxing experience. The Charm of Beppu's Hot Springs With over 2,000 hot springs, Beppu is a well-deserved favorite among onsen enthusiasts. These springs get their warm, mineral-packed waters from the strong geothermal activity underground. Each one provides soothing waters that can help you relax, improve your circulation, and make your skin healthier. Exploring Hyotan Onsen Our visit to Hyotan Onsen was a deeply relaxing detour on our way to the amazing Sunflower Ferry Terminal coming from Fukuoka. This peaceful retreat is crafted to suit various preferences, offering both indoor and outdoor bathing options. The highlight of our experience was the array of private baths, allowing us the luxury of unwinding in solitude and bathing together! Distinctive Features of Private Onsen Baths The private onsen experience at Hyotan is truly unique. Each private onsen room incorporates natural materials like wood and stone. Guests can enjoy an uninterrupted soak, away from the crowds typical of public baths. The "Ms. Matsu’s yu-kokochi" series features 8 styles of indoor baths and 2 open-air baths, all available for reservation by phone. You can begin making reservations one week in advance. We wanted an open-air bath, but it was already booked. We chose the Hotaru bath instead and absolutely loved it. Every private bath is a standalone house, offering the ambiance of a villa and with a changing room area. After each use, the water in all reserved private baths is replaced. The bath is filled with hot spring water using a token and is assigned a specific time period. You can expect to pay approximately 2,400 yen or more for this private experience, which is reasonably priced compared to private onsens near Hakone and Mount Fuji. Tip: The onsen also provides bento boxes with a variety of dishes, allowing meals to be enjoyed in the lobby or by the water's edge. Concluding Thoughts on Our Beppu Visit We only had a few short hours in Beppu, but we fell in love with it! We wished we had more time to explore all the features of Hyotan Onsen and the city of Beppu itself. This was an outstanding private onsen experience that we highly recommend if you find yourself in that part of Japan!

City street in Japan lined with colorful signs and vibrant storefronts Did you know that over 30 million people have already visited Japan in 2024? It's clear that Japan is a leading travel destination for many worldwide, and it might be yours too! You might have already begun organizing your journey to this fascinating and incredible country. However, before purchasing your flight tickets, you might ask yourself, what would be the perfect length for my trip to Japan? You definitely want to make the right decision to avoid any regrets and to make the most of your trip!  Challenges Faced Before Booking Many plan trips based on available vacation time, worrying it's insufficient to enjoy Japan. Others with flexible schedules may question the affordability of a longer stay or fitting activities into their timeframe. Some lack a clear itinerary, unsure of how long to stay, while others fear a longer trip might be overwhelming. Each person has their own preferences and pleasures when it comes to traveling, particularly to Japan! So, how can you make this difficult choice and confidently book your flight to officially embark on your Japan journey? Allow me to assist you below.  Factors to Consider Time The time you have available is a significant consideration. Even if your time is limited, you can still manage it. Keep in mind that for many, this trip is quite a long one, and you might spend two days just traveling to and from your destination. Jet Lag/Time Zone Shift Consider that jet lag and the time difference might slow you down during the first day or so—trust me, you'll notice it! Budget Consider your budget carefully, as it can limit how long you can stay. Areas You Want to Visit Another consideration is your desired destination. If you're concentrating on just one location, such as Tokyo, a shorter stay may be sufficient. However, if you plan to explore multiple places like Osaka or beyond, you might need to lengthen your trip. The massive City of Tokyo Must See and Do Experiences Take into account your must-see attractions and interests such as food, nature, anime, and shopping, ensuring you have ample time to enjoy everything you've planned at your own pace. Season/Holiday Lastly, keep in mind that traveling during peak season can be both crowded and more expensive.  Recommendation For first-time visitors, I recommend planning a trip of 10 to 14 days, ideally around the 2-week mark. This duration allows you enough time to arrive, adjust to the time difference, embrace the culture shock, and enjoy your visit at a comfortable pace. It's important to balance your schedule not just with a packed itinerary, but also by allowing time for getting lost, wandering and exploring, revisiting favorite spots, and taking a rest day from all the walking. Street view of Fukuoka During our first trip, we spent 15 days solely in Tokyo. This gave us the opportunity to explore nearly everything we wanted, but we still missed some activities, as some places closed earlier than expected or we simply ran out of time. On our second trip, we spent 16 days traveling from Fukuoka to Tokyo, and we still wished we had more time. Side Note: If you're traveling through Asia and considering a stopover in Japan, you definitely should! Even a brief visit for ramen or a trip to 7-Eleven is worthwhile, at least in my opinion. Conclusion In conclusion, plan to visit for as many days as you can manage! Avoid making your trip too brief, which might leave you feeling like you missed out or overly tired. Take into account your budget and desired itinerary, and allow some flexibility to explore this wonderful country.

Are you planning your first trip to Japan and are about to book a flight, but you want to make sure you don't miss anything? Did you know that booking your flights at the right time can save you hundreds of dollars on your first trip to Japan! Allow me to help you get this just right. Here is some key information you need for booking your flight to Japan, assisting you in finding the best deals and maximizing your travel experience in this incredible country. Avoid Overspending! Japan is a distant country, making flights expensive and potentially stressful, which might deter you from visiting. Overspending on flights can limit your funds for enjoying the trip. It's better to spend money in Japan rather than just on getting there. Once you visit, you'll likely want to return, so securing the best deal ensures you enjoy your trip, possibly extend it, and have the chance to return in the future. Timing of Booking Google Flights Search Engine Timing is crucial when booking flights to avoid increased costs. For international flights, start searching at least 6 months in advance. Use search engines like Skyscanner and Google Flights to compare prices on different days, months, and airlines for the cheapest fare. You can search for one-way or round-trip options. Google can also indicate when prices are high and suggest waiting, and you can set alerts for fare drops. Flexibility & Creative Alternatives For the best deals, travel during the off-season, like winter, and avoid holidays. Consider departing from different airports; though we are in ATL, we've flown from DFW and ORD to Japan by finding cheap domestic flights, which led to better deals. Also, compare arrival airports in Japan: Narita International is 1 hour away, but Haneda is closer to central Tokyo, and KIX is in Osaka. Airline Points from Credit Cards First Class Seat in ANA Flight leaving from ORD to NRT Our strategy to save on flights involves responsibly using credit cards to accumulate points, allowing us to book international flights, including business and first class, for the first time. Consider this approach if interested. Flights should be booked either a year in advance or last minute. Conclusion Thorough planning and research are crucial for a successful booking. Here are my tips for booking flights to Japan, which I hope will help you save money and turn your Japan trip into a reality! If you're unsure about how long to stay, take a look at this blog post.

Ume, or Japanese plum, is known for its beautiful bloom, typically occurring in February and March. In Japanese culture, it symbolizes the beginning of spring, since it is the first tree to flower even before the famous cherry blossoms. This prompts celebrations with festivals and seasonal foods and drinks all centered around ume. And honestly for us, it an incredible time for a visit to Japan! The Enchantment of Ume "Plum" Blossoms in Japan Ume blossoms are somewhat smaller than cherry blossoms, yet they are distinguished by a strong, sweet fragrance that cherry blossoms lack. Usually, they have five petals, though some varieties have more. Ume blossoms appear in different colors, with white and pink being the most prevalent. Additionally, weeping branch varieties have been developed, which are breathtaking when in full bloom. Plum Blossoms in Tokyo: Just visiting Tokyo and want to see plum blossoms, here are a few places to visit. Hanegi Park (Not far from Shibuya) Yushima Tenjin Shrine (Close to Ueno Park) Koishikawa Korakuen (Near Tokyo Dome) What is Umeshu, "Plum Wine"? Let's begin with what ume is. Ume, the fruit, originates from China. Despite often being referred to as the "Japanese Plum," it is not actually a plum! It resembles an apricot more closely and is recognized for its uniquely tart and bitter taste with a touch of sweetness. Umeshu, often referred to as "plum wine," is actually a Japanese plum liqueur, not wine! The Japanese term umeshu literally translates to "plum alcohol." This fruity liqueur is crafted from unripe ume, which is steeped with sugar in distilled liquor, typically shochu, for a minimum of six months. This aging transforms the sour fruit into a sweet liqueur with 35% alcohol by volume, cherished by soo many. This adaptable fruit not only creates delightful liqueur but also offers health benefits when consumed in moderation! Certain studies indicate advantages for digestion, fatigue, skin, and liver function due to its rich antioxidants, minerals, citric acid, and vitamins. Wondering how to drink plum wine? There are multiple options. You can savor this beverage either warm or cold, both methods enhance the ume flavor. Umeshu cocktails are also excellent choices. Try it with whisky, soda water, or both for an ume highball! Many umeshu bottles contain a boozy and sweet plum at the bottom, so don't miss out on enjoying one of those as well. Founded in 1914, Choya, a renowned Japanese brand, has over a century of experience in crafting this unique beverage so its a great place to begin your umeshu journey. Festivals Celebrating Ume Blossoms To celebrate the arrival of spring and the ume blossoms, ume festivals offer a wonderful opportunity to admire blooming plum trees and experience Japanese culture and cuisine. These festivals take place in public parks, temples, and shrines throughout Japan during specific periods, typically from early February to early March. One festival we had the pleasure of going to right outside of central Tokyo is the Setagaya Plum Festival in Hanegi Park. Located less than a 20-minute journey from Shibuya Station, we were able to admire the yearly blooming of its plum grove. The park is home to approximately 650 plum trees of nearly 60 different varieties. Extra Info: The Setagaya Plum Festival is held annually from early February to early March. When we visited on a weekend, we were welcomed by a row of vendors extending from the station to the park's entrance. They sold hand made pottery & ceramics, trinkets, food, flowers, and more. Inside the park, there were even more vendors, and we were offered free tea. It was here that we discovered umeshu, as a street vendor was selling homemade plum wine along with the plums! Weekends are usually the perfect time to fully immerse yourself in the experience, and you might even catch a performance or show. It's advisable to visit the festival's website you plan to attend to ensure you're informed about what to expect. Certainly anticipate plum-themed foods and snacks, such as Umeboshi (sour pickled plum), along with traditional street foods like Yakitori (chicken skewers) and Takoyaki (octopus balls). Conclusion Ume blossom season is beautiful and a great alternative to cherry blossoms. Especially if you aimed to steer clear of the busy season by arriving in early February and felt like you were missing out on the blooms. We are thrilled to have discovered ume and umeshu in Japan and hope you can experience them as well!