Guida
"Yoruume Matsuri" (Night Plum Festival) is a rare and enchanting event held at the historic Kairakuen Garden, Tokiwa Shrine, and the Kodokan site in Mito, Ibaraki Prefecture. Celebrating the 110th anniversary of the Mito Plum Festival, this event offers a unique way to experience the beauty of plum blossoms under the night sky. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking sight of illuminated groves and the sweet, heavy fragrance of blossoms that fills the air from evening until dawn.
The main attraction is the mesmerizing glow of over 5,000 candles placed throughout the grounds. The combination of illuminated plum trees, the bamboo forest's "Path of Light," and traditional Washi paper decorations creates a truly mystical atmosphere. A major highlight is the spectacular fireworks display by the renowned Nomura Fireworks Industry, often called the best in Japan. Additionally, you can immerse yourself in local culture through food stalls serving local delicacies and demonstrations of Mito's traditional samurai-style tea ceremonies.
The festival typically takes place around March each year. Please note that schedules may vary between the Kairakuen and Kodokan locations; always check the official website for the most current dates and specific event timings.
The event is primarily held in two areas: the "Kairakuen & Tokiwa Shrine Area" and the "Kodokan Area." To ensure smooth travel, temporary buses operated by Ibaraki Kotsu or Kanto Railway may be available. Please note that Kairakuen Station does not offer special service hours for this event, so you should plan to use local route buses to return to Mito Station.
As this is a nighttime outdoor event, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes for walking in the dark. Since temperatures can drop significantly at night, bringing warm clothing is essential to enjoy the scenery comfortably. Having small change ready for food stalls and planning your bus route back to the station will ensure a seamless experience.