At a temple in Kihoku Town, Mie Prefecture, a plum tree approximately 300 years old is in full bloom, offering an early taste of spring.

The red plum tree at “Chorakuji Temple” in Nagashima, Kihoku Town, is said to have been planted during the Edo period.

Although this ancient tree is supported by braces in several places along its trunk, it is cherished locally as an “early-blooming plum” that flowers at the beginning of the year.

The deep pink flowers, about 1 to 2 centimeters in size, began blooming on December 30th.

Thanks to the recent warm weather, they have burst into full bloom all at once, creating a premature spring atmosphere.

The red plum at Chorakuji Temple is open for anyone to view freely, and the best viewing period is expected to last until around the end of January.

Chorakuji Temple

Chorakuji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, founded in the 8th century by the monk Gyoki. It is renowned for its beautiful thatched-roof main hall and its serene garden of moss and maple trees, which are particularly stunning during the autumn foliage season. The temple is also associated with the famous warlord Takeda Shingen, who used it as a base in the 16th century.