Spring is creeping in, as always shy but resolute and inevitable. She whispers her advent with the honey fragrance of plum blossoms. Kumanichi reports that plums (technically not plums but the Japanese apricot, or Prunus mume - “ume” ～ 梅) are blossoming 25 days earlier than usual. Feisty flowers, ume are more compact than the cherry and far more fragrant, and their trees tend to be stunted and gnarled. They are the national flower of Taiwan.
Many private gardens host ume to enjoy. The castle has a magnificent orchard in Sukiyamaru (数寄屋丸 from which Kumamoto International’s banner photo was taken), but it is sadly still off limits. Instead, the plum blossoms at the Hosokawa Mansion (Hosokawa gyōbutei 細川刑部邸), located within the walls next to the science museum, give reason for visit. Also boasting sublime ume is Suizenji Shrine. The Kumanichi article suggests Taniosaki Bairin Kōen (谷尾崎梅林公園), on the eastern flank of Mt. Kimpo across from Hanaokayama. Respective photos snatched from the Net are below. Other suggestions are welcomed. - William