Photographing Plum Blossoms at Koishikawa Korakuen

A historic gem in the heart of Tokyo, Koishikawa Korakuen has always been one of my favorite retreats. Its story began in the 1600s when Yorifusa Tokugawa established a residence on the grounds. Over the centuries, the garden was enriched with new features, and in 1938, it opened its gates to the public. Today, we can enjoy its landscapes, including a plum blossom grove that makes it a premier destination for flower photography.

A photographer's experience in 2019

The 2019 plum blossom season at Koishikawa Korakuen was the most impressive I witnessed that year. Despite the overcast weather, the diffused light created a soft, even glow that was perfect for capturing the delicate beauty of the flowers. While patches of blue sky tried to break through the clouds, the gentle light ultimately worked in my favor. I was pleased with the resulting photographs.

One of the most captivating aspects of the grove is the artful mix of pink and white plum trees. Unlike some parks that are monotonous walls of a single color, Koishikawa Korakuen offers a blend of hues, creating a more dynamic and interesting scene.

The park was bustling with visitors, though thankfully not as crowded as my recent trip to Mogusaen. It was heartening to see many photography enthusiasts, some with impressive gear that signaled a serious passion. Over the years, I’ve found that a simple smile or nod can often lead to a friendly chat, many of whom are happy to share their experiences.

My visit was later in the afternoon, and as the sun began to dip lower, the light became even softer. While I had initially hoped for a clear blue sky, the gentle, overcast conditions prevented the harsh shadows that bright sunlight can create, proving to be a blessing in disguise.

Gear and technical reflections

For this outing, I used my Fujifilm X-T2 camera body paired with the versatile Fujifilm XF 16-55mm F2.8 R LM WR lens. I also experimented with the XF 55-200mm f3.5-4.8 lens, which produces beautiful bokeh. However, this lens presents a couple of challenges for flower photography. Its minimum focus distance of one meter requires standing further back from the subject, which can be a nuisance. Additionally, its autofocus can sometimes struggle, making manual focusing skills valuable.

A unique garden atmosphere

The plum blossom grove is in the northeast section of the park, next to the Tokyo Dome amusement park. The distant sounds of rollercoasters and occasional screams of their riders punctuated the otherwise serene atmosphere. For locals, this unique soundscape might just be part of the ambient noise.

Unfortunately, my late arrival followed a visit to Ushi Tenjin Kitano Shrine. That left me with little time to explore the rest of Koishikawa Korakuen’s treasures, such as its elegant bridges and a temple. As closing time approached, I had to conclude my visit.

Koishikawa Korakuen is a spectacular destination in any season, but the plum and cherry blossom periods are truly exceptional. If you have had the chance to experience the park during its festivals, I would love to hear your thoughts and see your own captures.