Celebration of plum blossoms is underway at Kairakuen Park in Mito City as the Kairakuen UME The Lights event transforms the iconic garden with mesmerizing light installations. This event, part of the 129th Mito Plum Blossom Festival, invites thousands to experience the enchanting atmosphere every weekend and on holidays until March 9, 2025.
Kairakuen Park, renowned for its vast collection of about 3,000 plum trees featuring around 100 varieties, stands as one of Japan's three great gardens. The plum festival, which showcases the blooming beauty during the day, extends its allure at night with the specially themed event, Kairakuen UME The Lights.
This year, visitors can indulge not only in the stunning visual experience but also taste local culinary delights. Mito has introduced sweets made from its signature plum variety, Mito no Ume Fukuyui, and other special menu items for the festival-goers.
According to officials from the Mito Tourism Convention Association, this season's blooms are anticipated to arrive later than usual, with early varieties beginning to blossom. The light-up event involves illustrious artistry, employing light, smoke effects, and audio-visual presentations, representing the 'yin and yang' theme, which has been integral to the park's identity since its inception.
Within the 'Yin' section, visitors encounter the stunning Bamboos of Momosou, where artificial clouds enveloped by mystic blue light create the feeling of walking among the clouds. This artistic expression is intended to symbolize the life flow rising from the earth to the bamboo.
Contrasting this, the 'Yang' area invites guests to witness vibrant pink and blue lights illuminating the plum trees. The juxtaposition of these two areas offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves deeply within the symbolic worlds of 'Yin and Yang', manifesting the legacy of the founder Tokugawa Nariaki.
Keiko Kimishima, 55, who traveled from Hitachinaka to visit, expressed her delight, stating, “This is such wonderful scenery. It was beyond my imagination.” Her enthusiasm captures the essence of visitor experiences so far.
The event runs on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 18:00 to 20:30, with the final entry at 20:00, enabling families and friends to enjoy the visuals and the ambiance. Admission costs 500 yen for high school students and above, and 300 yen for younger children; entry is free for preschoolers. Tickets can be purchased either online, through the event's official website, or on-site where they may sell out due to the event's popularity on busy nights.
Visitors are encouraged to participate and explore the local gourmet offerings alongside the stunning light displays. Part of the festival, the Shin Ibaraki Meshi event also showcases the region's food options, offering another layer of cultural immersion. Open at Kagakuen’s Togyo-sen Square from 10:00 to 20:00, this sub-event complements the plum blossom theme delightfully.
With its rich history and beautiful scenery, the Kairakuen Park is more than just another floral viewing spot; it’s where nature meets art, creating unforgettable memories for everyone.
To get more information or directions, reach out to the Mito Tourism Convention Association at 029-224-0441. With nature and creativity beautifully intertwined, the Kairakuen UME The Lights should not be missed!