The grove was designated a National Site of Scenic Beauty in 1922, one of the first in Japan.
Tsukigase is historically famous for producing 'ubai,' a traditional smoked plum used in both medicine and the production of black ink.
The terrain is intentionally maintained as a living landscape rather than a manicured botanical garden.
The Nabari River, which flows through the valley, was once a vital transportation artery for the region's agricultural goods.
Tsukigase Plum Grove is a historic orchard landscape located along the Nabari River valley, renowned for being one of Japan's earliest designated Sites of Scenic Beauty. The grove features over 10,000 plum trees distributed across the hillsides, creating a tiered effect of blossoms during the late winter and early spring. The site is a key producer of traditional Tsukigase plum products, particularly smoked plums known as ubai. Visitors can explore a network of walking paths that wind through the slopes, offering views of the valley floor and the surrounding mountain ridges. The geography creates a unique microclimate that typically initiates the flowering season earlier than in higher altitudes. The orchard is deeply integrated into the local village economy, with trails passing near traditional farmhouse architecture.
The viewing platforms along the upper ridge offer the best vantage point for capturing the entire tiered valley covered in blossoms.
Wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip as the paths are steep, narrow, and often unpaved.
Check local blossom reports before travel, as the peak bloom period is weather-dependent and typically lasts only two to three weeks.
Carry small currency for local vendors selling plum-based snacks and traditional preserves.
Attempting to hike the entire valley in a single visit; the terrain is hilly and requires more time than casual walking implies.
The grove is open year-round for hiking, but the primary visitor infrastructure and local food stalls operate exclusively during the plum blossom season.
Stay on marked trails to protect the root systems of the plum trees and respect private agricultural land boundaries.
