Plum Blossoms and White-Eyes: A Symphony of Nature’s Beauty

In the tranquil plum groves of Tsunashiki Tenmangu Shrine, located in the Sakurai district, one can occasionally spot the delightful scene of Mejiro amid the blossoms, a sight that beautifully encapsulates the essence of spring in Japan.

About Umejirō

The plum blossom, or “ume” in Japanese, is not only celebrated for its beauty but also for its symbolism of renewal and perseverance, as it is one of the first flowers to bloom, often while snow still covers the ground.

The Japanese White-eye, known as “Mejiro” in Japanese, is a small bird species recognizable by its distinctive green plumage and the white ring around its eye, which gives the bird its name. During the plum blossom season, these birds are attracted to the nectar of the blossoms, and they can often be seen flitting energetically from flower to flower. This interaction between the plum blossoms and Mejiro adds a dynamic and vibrant layer to the serene beauty of the ume groves.

The term “Umejirō,” combining “ume” (plum) and “Mejiro” (Japanese White-eye), specifically refers to the scenes where these birds are observed amidst the plum blossoms. For many, the sight of Mejiro among the plum blossoms is not just a herald of spring but also a moment of natural harmony and beauty, symbolizing the interconnectedness of life.

Photographers, both amateur and professional, are drawn to this spectacle, hoping to capture the essence of early spring through their lenses. The challenge of photographing these quick-moving birds among the blossoms attracts many to the ume groves, each striving to freeze a moment of natural elegance and the fleeting beauty of spring’s arrival.

The sight of Mejiro sipping nectar from plum blossoms, set against the backdrop of the faint yet intoxicating fragrance of the flowers, offers a peaceful and inspiring experience. It’s a reminder of the simple joys and transient beauty of nature, encouraging people to pause and appreciate the moment. For many, the allure of capturing “Umejirō” is not just in the beauty of the images they take but also in the experience of being present in the midst of this captivating interaction between flora and fauna, marking the changing seasons.

Access and Local Area Information

• Location: 6-2-1 Sakurai, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture
• Parking: Available（up to 20 vehicles on shrine grounds）
• Admission: Free
• Contact Information: 0898-48-0038
  (Tsunashiki Tenmangu Shrine)