A legend whispers on the wind about plum trees flying from Kyoto. This legend connects deeply to the Plum-tree Grove at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. We are standing before a place of beauty and history. It’s more than just a garden. It’s a testament to enduring love and devotion.
Let’s delve into the story of Kitano Tenmangu and its Plum-tree Grove. This shrine is one of many dedicated to Sugawara Michizane. He was a scholar and politician. Political rivals unfairly exiled him. After his death in exile, disasters struck. People believed his spirit sought vengeance. Shrines like this one were built to appease him.
Sugawara Michizane became associated with Tenjin. Tenjin is the Shinto god of education. Students flock to Kitano Tenmangu. They pray for success in their studies, especially during exam seasons. But Michizane’s love for plum trees is perhaps his most charming attribute.
One plum tree is particularly famous. It is called tobiume or flying plum tree. Legend says it followed Michizane from Kyoto to his exile in Kyushu. A plum tree always stands before the offering hall in Tenmangu shrines because of this story.
Here at Kitano Tenmangu, we find not just one tree. We find an entire Plum-tree Grove. Nearly 2000 plum trees bloom here from February to March. Imagine the sight. Picture the scent. The air is thick with the sweet fragrance of plum blossoms.
The shrine hosts a special tea ceremony. It’s called Baikasai. It takes place in this Plum-tree Grove every February 25th. Maiko and geiko from the nearby Kamishichiken district attend. It must be an unforgettable experience to witness.
The Plum-tree Grove is especially beautiful. It bursts with color and life. Different kinds of plum trees fill the grove. White blossoms stand out against the blue sky. Red flowers add splashes of vibrant color. Double-petaled and single-petaled blooms offer variety. Walking through the grove is a feast for the senses.
The shrine has plum trees in other areas too. You can find them in gardens on the north side of the Plum-tree Grove. They also grow near auxiliary shrines. Even subordinate shrines of Kitano Tenmangu have plum trees. You can enjoy a stroll among trees. Some are in full bloom. Others are just budding. It depends on the sunshine.
Among these many trees, seek out the tobiume. The flying plum tree stands to the left of the main shrine. It blooms with red flowers. This tree came from Michizane’s garden. It has been passed down through generations by grafting.
The Plum-tree Grove offers a serene escape. It’s a place to connect with nature. It’s a place to reflect on history. The story of Sugawara Michizane lives on. It lives on through these beautiful plum trees.
As you wander through the Plum-tree Grove remember Michizane’s love for these trees. Think of the legend of the flying plum. Consider the thousands of students who come here to pray. This grove embodies history and hope. It is a testament to the enduring power of nature. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty around you. Let the fragrance of the plum blossoms fill your senses.