Night Blooms In Tokyo

Continuing on my jet lag induced morning walk series, I came across this ume tree in full bloom yesterday morning. Ume is a plum tree and usually blooms earlier than it's more famous sakura, or cherry blossom cousin.

This tree was in a private residence right next to an illuminated parking lot so the blossoms were vivid, even at night. Unfortunately the focus on my iPhone wasn't as sharp.

Ok, the blame lies with me too I guess, but this one turned out nice.

One of the great things about spring in Japan is the practically month long bloom of the different trees. First up are the ume trees, followed a few weeks later by the sakura.

The prior Japanese generations had the forethought to plant them in clusters for future generations to basque in.

I have a feeling this year is going to be epic because of the relaxing of COVID and the slightly warmer weather. Tourists are coming to Japan in droves and Japanese are ready to let it all hang out again, at least our friends are.

That's the full moon in the background.

One way to tell ume blossoms apart from sakura, ume are rounded petals while sakura have a point on each petal. Additionally ume bloom right from the branch, while sakura have a flower stem off the branch. Lastly, ume bloom several weeks earlier. Both are majestic.

The sakura seems like it's on steroids compared to the ume though. Or perhaps that's just because there are large concentrations of sakura compared to ume.

Now that I look at these photos I realize I have to go back tomorrow morning to get better pictures. The moon is still out, but not completely full, still it will provide for a nice backdrop. Maybe I can sneak the Mrs. EOS out while she's sleeping...

Thanks for reading!