[Guide to the Best of Plum Blossoms on Mt. Takao] Make the Most of Your Hike and Plum Viewing!

About a 10-minute walk from Takaosanguchi Station, you'll reach the first plum grove, Yuhodo Plum Grove.
During peak bloom, the walking path transforms into a breathtaking tunnel of red and white plum blossoms, creating a truly immersive experience. The sweet fragrance of plum flowers fills the air, and as you stroll along the gentle slopes, you can fully embrace the arrival of spring in a tranquil setting.
For a more relaxing experience, grab a seat on the embankment and enjoy the view of Kobotoke River, letting the serene atmosphere refresh your mind. On clear days, the contrast between the blue sky and the vibrant plum blossoms is especially photo-friendly—perfect for capturing a memento of your day.

Partway through Yuhodo Plum Grove, turn right through a residential area to reach the Old Koshu Highway, where you’ll find Sekisho Plum Grove next to the "Komagino" bus stop.
This historic grove sits on the former site of the Kobotoke Sekisho checkpoint, which operated during the Edo period (1603–1868). As one of the most historically rich spots in Takao Baigo, it exudes a deep sense of tradition and charm.
Now maintained as a public park, Sekisho Plum Grove often serves as a venue for festivals and events. Within the spacious grounds, you’ll find not only white and red plum blossoms, but also vibrant yellow flowers from the "Sanshuyu" (Japanese Cornelian Cherry) trees, adding to the picturesque scenery.
Many of the plum trees here are well-maintained and relatively large, with beautifully shaped branches, allowing visitors to admire the blossoms up close. The tranquil atmosphere, which still carries traces of the past, makes it a perfect place to sit on a bench and enjoy a peaceful moment.

A 10-minute walk from Sekisho Plum Grove, followed by a slightly steep uphill path, leads to the Arai Plum Grove.
At the highest point, visitors are rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view of the plum trees below, where petals dancing in the wind create an enchanting scene. The sunlit blossoms glow like a painting, and in the distance, you can even catch a glimpse of Tenjin Plum Grove, making this a hidden scenic gem.
The elegant fragrance of the plum blossoms fills the air, while the melodic chirping of spring birds such as the Blue Rock Thrush and Japanese White-eye enhances the tranquil atmosphere.
Adding to its charm, JR Chuo Main Line runs alongside the grove, and the occasional clatter of passing trains blends harmoniously with the peaceful surroundings, offering a uniquely Arai Plum Grove experience.

Continuing straight along Yuhodo Plum Grove, you'll soon arrive at Tenjin Plum Grove.
Here, the gently sloping landscape allows plum trees to grow naturally, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere enhanced by the floral fragrance that fills the air. The sunlit petals and swaying branches make for beautiful views from every angle, offering a truly picturesque experience.
At the top of the slope, you’ll find Takao Tenmangū Shrine, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the renowned god of learning. This shrine is the namesake of Tenjin Plum Grove and provides a panoramic view of the blossoms from its elevated grounds, making it a must-visit spot for breathtaking, traditional scenery.

Continuing past Tenjin Plum Grove, you'll come across Takao Baigo Machi-no-Hiroba, a central facility within Takao Baigo. This area not only features a plum grove but also provides free restrooms and a rest area, making it a great place for a short break.
From there, a 2–3 minute walk along the Old Koshu Highway (Jataki Road) leads to Inohana Plum Grove. This road is part of the Jataki Trail, which connects to Mt. Takao, attracting both hikers visiting after their climb and those heading to the mountain after enjoying the plum blossoms.
The grove is densely populated with plum trees in full bloom, creating a vividly colorful and fragrant landscape. During peak season, it offers a calm and relaxing atmosphere, making it an ideal place to unwind. However, since the grove has a limited open period, it’s best to check in advance before visiting.

After passing Inohana Plum Grove, you'll soon find the entrance to Surusashi Plum Grove. Located in the westernmost part of Takao Baigo when starting from Takao-Sanguchi Station, this grove is part of Surusashi Machi-no-Hiroba, a spacious plaza.
This spot is open exclusively during the early to mid-March plum blossom viewing period, making it a special seasonal attraction. The well-maintained walking paths allow visitors to easily stroll through the grove, taking in the delicate fragrance and elegant beauty of the blossoms up close.
While you're here, be sure to stop by the famous Mineo Tofu Shop, a well-known spot in Ura-Takao. They offer a variety of tofu-based dishes made with high-quality underground water from the Takao mountain range. Their light and fluffy okara (soy pulp) donuts are perfect for a quick snack while exploring the area.

Leaving Surusashi Plum Grove, you’ll finally reach Kogesawa Plum Grove, the largest plum grove in Takao Baigo.
The grove is about a 20 to 30-minute walk away, so if you prefer to save your energy, taking a bus is a good option. You can board the bus at "Surusashi" bus stop (near Mineo Tofu Shop) and get off at either "Hikage" or "Oshimo", both of which are the closest stops.
Normally, Kogesawa Plum Grove is closed to the public, but it opens only during peak bloom from early to mid-March each year. This expansive grove is divided into three sections—upper, middle, and lower—with approximately 1,400 red and white plum trees blanketing the landscape in breathtaking beauty.
The grounds keep a number of trails and benches that serve as a perfect spot to relax, take in the scenery, and immerse yourself in the charm of the plum blossoms.

The eighth and final plum grove, Kobotoke Plum Grove, is located a short walk from the "Oshimo" bus stop, which is the nearest stop to Kogesawa Plum Grove.
Compared to other groves, Kobotoke Plum Grove is smaller, with plum trees lining the roadside, creating a charming yet modest scenery. However, it is considered the birthplace of Takao Baigo, making it a historically significant location. The harmony between the plum trees, surrounding mountains, and natural landscape enhances its tranquil beauty.
Each plum tree has its own unique shape and character, offering an ever-changing and immersive visual experience. The grove’s layered, three-dimensional landscape ensures there’s always something new to appreciate.
At the end of the trail, you’ll reach the Kobotoke bus stop, the final stop on the route. If you’re feeling tired, this is a convenient place to catch a bus back to the station.