Ume: The True Spring Flower

No one remembers who came in second.

- Walter Hagen

If the plum blossoms were in a competition, they would definitely relate to what I just quoted above. If that sounds unclear, let me throw in my two pennies worth.

Spring in Japan has always been a popular season among tourists wanting to experience a bit of Japanese culture. It is especially tied to the Cherry blossom or what is known to many as Sakura. This flower has not only been an icon for this particular season but is also a symbol of the whole nation. This gorgeous flower has made a name for itself and there is no doubt about that. When people hear 'Spring in Japan', that is usually equal to Sakura.

However, there is another beauty that blooms during the Spring season. The ume (ume no hana), or plum blossoms in English. I personally think that for some reason, they are not as widely heard of compared to the cherry blossoms and some actually believe they are just like the Sakura.

(The pink and white mixture of petals in a single bud is not commonly seen in ume blossoms, so this one is a good find.)

The ume is known to hint the beginning of Spring season. In most areas around Japan, it flowers during February and March. Though in some places, the ume may start flowering in January and eventually meet snow. The beginning of Spring is a wonderful time to capture the beauty of these blossoms as they are easily seen in public parks, shrines, and temples across the country.

Although the sakura has surpassed the popularity of ume, the ume has long been a significant part of the Japanese culture . Its fruit has also been used to make the famous umeboshi, a sour, pickled, plum which is loved by the Japanese people. The cultural significance of the ume includes its spiritual usage as it is believed that it wards of evil. Hence one can actually see them planted in shrines, temples, and other spiritual places.

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So, can you now relate the quote to the story of the ume? However, I reckon, the ume has not been really forgotten; it's just overlooked most of the time.

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If you live near or around Gifu city, Bairin Park would be a wonderful place to see ume. They start blooming in February.