Guide
Yudagawonsen Bairin Koen is a beautiful park located in the Yudagawonsen area of Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture. It features approximately 300 red and white plum trees (koubai and hakubai) planted on a hillside at the foot of Mount Kinpu. Because of its elevated position, the park offers a sweeping view of the Yudagawonsen hot spring town below. It is one of the most famous spots in the Shonai region for viewing plum blossoms in the spring.
The Yudagawonsen area has been renowned for its hot springs since ancient times, developing alongside the rich natural environment. The cultivation of plum trees in this park is part of a long-standing cultural tradition of appreciating the changing seasons. In particular, the 'Plum Festival' held in late March is a cherished local event where community traditions and seasonal flavors are shared with visitors.
The park is filled with the vibrant colors of roughly 300 red and white plum trees, creating a stunning landscape of blooming flowers. Thanks to its high vantage point, you can enjoy the seasonal scenery alongside the charming streets of the Yudagawonsen hot spring town spreading out beneath you. Depending on the timing, you may also see cherry blossoms blooming alongside the plums, showcasing the dynamic transition of spring nature.
The best time to visit is from late March to early April. During this window, the 'Plum Festival' is held, which often features 'Nodate'—the traditional practice of enjoying tea in an outdoor setting. Beyond the plum season, the park offers beautiful scenery throughout the year, including fresh greenery in early summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and serene snowscapes in winter.
During the Plum Festival, you can experience 'Nodate,' where local ryokan (inn) hostesses serve matcha green tea and traditional sweets in the open air. There are also occasions to witness 'Yudagawonsen Kagura,' a traditional local dance, providing a deep connection to the region's culture. Nearby ryokans often serve seasonal delicacies, such as dishes featuring fresh bamboo shoots (Moso bamboo shoots), which are a highlight of the spring season.
The park is located within the Yudagawonsen area, making it easy to combine a visit with a stroll through the hot spring town. There are many traditional hot spring inns nearby where you can enjoy day-trip bathing (higaeri nyuyoku), overnight stays, and seasonal gourmet dining. Other nearby sightseeing spots include the scenic Hakusan-jima island.
Walking shoes are highly recommended for exploring the park. The park is equipped with restrooms (1 male, 1 female, and 1 universal/accessible toilet). Please note that free Wi-Fi is not available within the park. While the park is open to the public at all times, please be mindful of the surrounding hot spring area and maintain a quiet, respectful atmosphere, especially during events.