Spring is quietly arriving at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.
As of February 20, 2026, the plum blossoms are around 70% in bloom, and the shrine grounds are transforming day by day.
Soft white petals shimmer beside ancient camphor trees, vivid pink weeping plums cascade toward the stone paths, and the sacred Tobiume tree stands gracefully in early spring light.
With nearly 6,000 plum trees and around 200 varieties, Dazaifu Tenmangu is one of Kyushu’s most spectacular places to experience plum blossom season.
And in 2026, the blooms began right on schedule — with the first blossoms recorded on January 19.
Now, warmer late-February temperatures are accelerating the opening of buds, bringing the season closer to its peak.
So when is the best time to visit?
This live report brings together on-site observations, bloom percentages, peak forecasts, and crowd predictions to help you plan your perfect visit.
Whether you’re hoping to see delicate early blossoms or a vibrant canopy of flowers in full bloom, here’s everything you need to know about the 2026 plum blossom season at Dazaifu Tenmangu.
- Dazaifu Tenmangu Plum Blossoms 2026 – Latest Bloom Status (Updated Feb 20)
- When Is the Best Time to See Plum Blossoms at Dazaifu Tenmangu in 2026?
- Dazaifu Tenmangu Plum Blossom Timeline 2026
- Why Dazaifu Tenmangu Is Famous for Plum Blossoms (6,000 Trees & 200 Varieties)
- Area-by-Area Plum Blossom Bloom Status at Dazaifu Tenmangu
- Dazaifu Plum Blossom Crowd Forecast 2026 (Feb 21–23 & March 1)
- What Is Kyokusui no En? Plum Blossom Festival at Dazaifu Tenmangu
- 2026 Update History
Dazaifu Tenmangu Plum Blossoms 2026 – Latest Bloom Status (Updated Feb 20)
As of February 20, 2026, plum blossoms at Dazaifu Tenmangu are around 70% in bloom. Many trees across the shrine grounds are now covered in soft white and pale pink flowers, while some later varieties are still unfolding.
Blooming has accelerated due to rising late-February temperatures.
If warm weather continues, peak bloom is expected very soon.
👉 For detailed photos and area-by-area observations, read the full February 20 Bloom Report here.
👉 See how the season began in the February 11 Early Bloom Report.
- Tobiume at 70% bloom
- Weeping plum (pink)
- Romon gate with white blossoms
When Is the Best Time to See Plum Blossoms at Dazaifu Tenmangu in 2026?
If you are visiting in late February, the answer is: Almost — and very soon.
In a typical year, the best time to see plum blossoms at Dazaifu Tenmangu is from mid-February to early March.
In 2026, blooming started on schedule (January 19 for the sacred Tobiume tree), and conditions suggest the season may reach full bloom slightly earlier than average.
Estimated Peak Window:
February 22 – March 3, 2026
If you prefer:
- 🌸 Early, delicate blossoms → Visit before February 20
- 🌸 Full bloom scenery → February 24 – March 2
- 🌸 Fewer crowds → Weekday mornings
Dazaifu Tenmangu Plum Blossom Timeline 2026
Tracking the season day by day helps predict the peak more accurately.
| Date | Bloom Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jan 19 | First bloom | Sacred Tobiume (official) |
| Feb 11 | 20–30% | Early bloom begins |
| Feb 20 | ~70% | Rapid progress |
| Feb 27 | (Upcoming update) | On-site visit scheduled |
| Mar 1 | Special coverage | Kyokusui no En ceremony |
This timeline will be updated as the season progresses.
Why Dazaifu Tenmangu Is Famous for Plum Blossoms (6,000 Trees & 200 Varieties)
Dazaifu Tenmangu is home to approximately 6,000 plum trees and around 200 varieties, making it one of Kyushu’s most famous plum blossom destinations.
Unlike cherry blossoms, plum blossoms bloom earlier and last longer.
The variety of colors — from pure white to deep pink — creates a layered landscape throughout the shrine grounds.
The sacred Tobiume tree, said to have flown from Kyoto, is the symbolic heart of the season and often blooms first.
- Higashi Shinen wide view
- Kita Shinen mid-bloom scene
Area-by-Area Plum Blossom Bloom Status at Dazaifu Tenmangu
🌸 Tobiume
Currently around 70% in bloom and becoming one of the most photogenic spots.
🌸 Higashi Shinen Garden
Many trees are nearing peak bloom, creating a soft canopy effect.
🌸 Kita Shinen Garden
Slightly behind at around 60%, with steady progress.
🌸 Weeping Plum Trees
One vivid pink tree stands out as the most striking bloom of February 20.
🌸 Plum Tunnel
Branches arch overhead, though flowers are around 40% open — expect this area to improve significantly within days.
Dazaifu Plum Blossom Crowd Forecast 2026 (Feb 21–23 & March 1)
Plum blossom season attracts many visitors, especially during key dates.
Expected Busy Days:
- February 21–23 (Long Weekend)
- March 1 – Kyokusui no En Ceremony
March 1 is traditionally the first Sunday of March and features the elegant Kyokusui no En, a Heian-style poetry ceremony held beneath blooming plum trees.
Travel Tips:
- Arrive before 9:00 AM
- Avoid midday on March 1
- Weekdays offer a calmer experience
- Take early Nishitetsu trains from Fukuoka
What Is Kyokusui no En? Plum Blossom Festival at Dazaifu Tenmangu
Kyokusui no En is a classical poetry ceremony where participants dressed in Heian-period attire compose waka poems as sake cups float along a stream.
Held under blooming plum trees, this event connects seasonal beauty with Japanese tradition, making March 1 one of the most atmospheric days of the season.
2026 Update History
- February 11 – Early bloom begins (20–30%)
- February 20 – 70% bloom, approaching peak
- February 27 – Next on-site inspection
- March 1 – Kyokusui no En special report
This page will continue to be updated throughout the 2026 plum blossom season.
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Before your visit, take a moment to explore Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine in depth.
This complete guide covers everything from must-see spots and seasonal highlights to how long to spend at the shrine — perfect for planning a smooth and meaningful visit.
To truly appreciate the beauty and spirit of Dazaifu, understanding a few simple shrine manners makes a big difference.
This easy guide explains how to pray, where to bow, and what to avoid — so you can visit with confidence and respect.
After enjoying the plum blossoms, don’t miss Dazaifu’s most famous sweet — Umegae Mochi, a traditional rice cake closely tied to the shrine’s history.
I spent two full days tasting and comparing Umegae Mochi from 12 different shops along the approach to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. Each one was slightly different in flavor, texture, and sweetness — and you might be surprised which shop became my favorite.
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