By VIRTUAL KYOTO

Join us on a beautiful walk through Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (北野天満宮) in Kyoto during the Ume Blossom Festival (梅花祭) on February 25, 2025. This special event coincides with the monthly Tenjin Market (天神市), bringing an influx of visitors to the shrine grounds.

The walk begins at the shrine’s bustling entrance, where street stalls line the path, offering a lively atmosphere. As we move towards the Romon Gate (楼門), visitors can admire the first signs of blooming ume (plum) blossoms, a long-awaited seasonal highlight.

Notable moments include a visit to the shrine's beautifully decorated Chozuya (purification fountain), known as the Ume Blossom Hand Wash Basin (梅花手水), and the stunning lantern displays at the Mantou Chochin (萬燈提灯). The walk continues through the renowned Sanko-mon Gate (三光門) and offers glimpses of a traditional open-air tea ceremony (野点茶会).

Reaching the main hall (本殿前), visitors can pay their respects before exploring the white ume blossoms (白梅) and the charming plum blossom pathway (梅並木). The journey then leads to the Higashi-mon Gate (東門) and a lively street filled with festive vendor stalls (露店通り), concluding at the Kamishichiken Kaburenjo Theater (上七軒歌舞練場), a historic site of Kyoto’s geisha culture.

Explore the beauty of Kyoto’s plum blossoms and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this cultural event at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine!