TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Soga Plum Grove is a plum grove that spreads across the Soga region of Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and is one of the Kanto region's leading plum blossom spots. Divided into three areas - Bessho, Nakagawara, and Haramachi - it is home to approximately 3,000 plum trees (the number may fluctuate from year to year). This plum orchard has been protected by local people since ancient times, and its appeal lies in the fact that on clear days you can see the plum blossoms as well as Hakone and Mount Fuji. The Odawara Soga Plum Grove Plum Festival is held every year from February to March, and visitors can enjoy street stalls, tea ceremonies, local performing arts, and strolls through the park.
Highlights
- A competition of plum blossoms: White and red plum blossoms bloom all over the place, creating a beautiful contrast in fragrance and color.
- A view with Mt. Fuji and the Hakone mountain range in the background: On a clear day, this is a great photo spot where you can see Mt. Fuji and the Hakone mountain range over the plum blossoms.
- A stroll around the three plum groves: Each area has a different atmosphere and appearance, making it fun to walk around.
- Events during the Plum Festival: Local events such as food stalls, local performing arts, and tea ceremonies.
- Perfect for photography and picnics: Relax and enjoy the changing seasons in the spacious garden.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Gotemba Line Shimosogata Station, approximately 10-20 minutes on foot (depending on the venue and entrance).
- From Odawara Station: Approximately 15-25 minutes by bus from JR Odawara Station (depending on the route and time of day. Special buses may run during the plum festival).
- By car: Accessible via the Odawara Atsugi Road and Seisho Bypass. Temporary paid parking lots are set up in the vicinity during the plum festival, but they can get crowded, so public transportation is recommended.
- Parking: There is a temporary parking lot during the festival, but the number of spaces is limited. Please check the Odawara City or Plum Festival official website for the latest information.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short tour: 30 minutes to 1 hour (visit only the main points)
- Leisurely stroll: 1.5 to 2.5 hours (including taking photos and eating and drinking at food stalls)
- Combine with sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day (combined with Odawara Castle or Hakone)
Nearby spots
- Odawara Castle: Recommended for historical walks and museum visits (easily accessible by car or train from the plum grove).
- Hakone Hot Springs Area: A popular course is to relax in the hot springs after viewing the plum blossoms.
- Odawara Fishing Port and Fish Market: Enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies.
- There are many places where you can experience local history, such as the Soga Brothers' historical site and local temples and shrines.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Weekends and public holidays during the plum festival will be extremely crowded. We recommend using public transportation and visiting early in the morning.
- Parking: Parking around the venue is limited, so it is easy for it to fill up or become congested. If you are coming by car, please allow yourself plenty of time.
- Manners: Do not pick flowers or damage branches. Fields and orchards may be private property, so please follow entry restrictions.
- Clothing and footing: The venue has slopes and dirt paths, so wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing. In rainy weather, some areas may become muddy.
- Weather and flowering conditions: The best time to see the flowers varies from year to year (usually between early February and mid-March). For information on flowering, please check the latest information on Odawara City and the official plum festival website.
- Pets: Some venues allow pets, but please observe basic etiquette such as cleaning up feces and keeping pets on a leash. Be sure to check the venue's rules in advance.
- Cash and Facilities: Some stalls only accept cash, so it's convenient to have some coins. Public toilets and shops are limited in number, so be sure to prepare in advance.
- Drones and photography: There may be restrictions on flying drones and commercial photography without permission. Please be considerate and not disturb others.
*We recommend checking the official website or Odawara City Tourist Information before visiting for the latest information on flowering, transportation, and event status.
