Plum Blossoms at Kamakura-gu Shrine (鎌倉宮)
The Beauty of Plum Blossoms at Kamakura-gu Shrine
At Kamakura-gu Shrine, visitors can admire the “Shogun Plum”, said to have been planted by Prince Kaneyoshi, the younger brother of Prince Moriyoshi. This historic plum tree blooms beautifully, offering a glimpse into the past while signaling the arrival of spring. Located beside the temizuya (purification fountain) near the second torii gate, the Shogun Plum is a symbol of Kamakura-gu Shrine.
History and Background
Kamakura-gu Shrine (Kamakura-gū) was founded in 1869 (Meiji 2) to enshrine Prince Moriyoshi (Moriyoshi Shinnō), a key figure in the anti-shogunate movement during the Nanboku-chō period (mid-14th century). The shrine’s grounds feature plum blossoms associated with the Southern Court’s history.
The Shogun Plum (Shōgunbai) is believed to have originated from a tree planted by Prince Kaneyoshi (Kaneyoshi Shinnō) to commemorate the fallen soldiers after the Battle of Chikugo River. In the Meiji period (19th century), the tree was transplanted from Yatsushiro Shrine in Kumamoto Prefecture and is now preserved within Kamakura-gu Shrine.
Best Season to Visit and Highlights
- Late January to Early March: The Shogun Plum reaches full bloom.
- Plum Tree Beside the Temizuya: A historically significant and iconic tree of Kamakura-gu Shrine.
- Limited-Time Goshuin (Seal Stamp): Special seasonal goshuin featuring the Shogun Plum.
- Coexistence with Kawazu Cherry Blossoms: Visitors can admire both plums and winter-blooming cherry blossoms.
The Unique Charm of Kamakura-gu Shrine
Kamakura-gu Shrine is not widely known as a famous spot for plum blossoms, but the historically significant “Shogun Plum” makes it a must-visit destination. A highlight is the limited-time goshuin featuring the Shogun Plum motif, available during its blooming period.
Additionally, Kawazu cherry blossoms bloom in mid-winter, allowing visitors to enjoy both plum and cherry blossoms at the same time, making this shrine a hidden gem for flower enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The Shogun Plum at Kamakura-gu Shrine offers a rare opportunity to appreciate both historical significance and natural beauty. As you admire the delicate plum blossoms, take a moment to reflect on the legacy of Prince Kaneyoshi and his era.
Toshi’s Evaluation (2026)
| Evaluation Category | Score | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Scenery | 9 | Red and white plum blossoms are scattered around the worship hall and approach path, with the Shogun Plum Tree (将軍梅) harmonizing beautifully with the shrine buildings and torii gate to create a serene early spring atmosphere. Though not large in scale, the plum-viewing experience is highly photogenic, especially when paired with its historical background. |
| Accessibility | 7 | Walking from JR Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅) takes over 30 minutes, but the shrine can be reached in a few minutes on foot from the nearest bus stop. Public transportation is available, but it is slightly less convenient than more centrally located spots. |
| Historical Value | 9 | The shrine enshrines Prince Morinaga (護良親王), a son of Emperor Go-Daigo. The Shogun Plum Tree (将軍梅) is said to date back to the Nanboku-chō period, offering visitors a strong sense of late Kamakura to Nanboku-chō era history. |
| Comfort | 8 | Unlike major temples and shrines in central Kamakura, this site is generally less crowded, allowing for a peaceful visit and plum viewing experience. Basic facilities are in place, though crowds may increase during peak seasons. |
| Reviews | 7 | Many reviews highlight the site’s tranquility and historical value. Overall ratings are steady, but the shrine does not rank among the top-rated destinations. |
Total Score: 40
Overall Evaluation
This plum-viewing spot stands out for its historical depth, symbolized by the Shogun Plum Tree (将軍梅), and the peaceful scenery created by the shrine buildings and blossoms. It is well suited for visitors seeking to avoid the hustle of central Kamakura and appreciate plum blossoms in a calm setting steeped in Nanboku-chō period history.