Plum Festival at Mito

 [Kairakuen Plum Festival]

It's probably safe to say it's almost over, but I went to the Mito Kairakuen Plum Festival. It was my first time, and it took just over an hour on the Joban Line.

As soon as I entered the garden, I was immediately soothed by the sweet scent of plum blossoms.

The garden is large, and the plum grove stretches on and on, but I never get bored.

The admission fee was only 320 yen per person! Isn't that too cheap?

Anyway, I'm glad I went.

I bought two kinds of natto and a Japanese sweet called "Mito no Ume" as souvenirs.

This was elegant, not too sweet, and refreshingly delicious.

I also bought a local sake called "Yuju." Apparently it's also offered at Kashima Shrine. I asked for a recommendation at the local sake shop with a corner bar at the station and bought some. The staff were very helpful.

Next time, I'd like to stay overnight and try a local izakaya at night.