Exclusive Early Spring Visual Feast 🎨

#cherryblossom25 From late February to mid-March, Sone Tenmangu Shrine in Hyogo Prefecture along the Sanyo Electric Railway, becomes a must-visit spot for beautiful plum blossoms. Thousands of red and white plum trees bloom under the clear blue sky, with the crisp air making the colors even more vibrant — it’s as if an early spring color palette has been spilled out before your eyes. The shrine’s ancient torii gates and vermilion buildings create a picturesque backdrop against the sea of flowers, perfect for capturing serene Japanese vibes! 🌸✨ Travel Guide 🛤️ Address: Sone, Itami City, Hyogo Prefecture Recommended Routes: From Osaka: Take the Hankyu Takarazuka Line to Sone Station, then walk 8 minutes. From Kobe: Take the Sanyo Electric Railway to Sanyo-Sone Station, then walk 10 minutes. Tip: Consider getting a Sanyo Electric Railway day pass for a scenic ride along the line, with several beautiful spring spots to visit! 🚋 Must-Visit Photo Spots 📸 The Shrine’s Plum Blossom Path 🌺 A 100-meter-long stone path flanked by red plum trees, offering an ideal setting for photos. Wearing light-colored clothes will enhance the dreamy shots! 🌸 “Yin-Yang Plum” in Front of the Main Hall 🌞 Two ancient plum trees, one red and one white, grow symmetrically in front of the shrine’s main hall. On sunny days, the interplay of shadows and light on the roof creates a magical effect. 🌞🌸 The Thousand-Year-Old Plum Tree 🌳 Hidden deep in the shrine grounds is a 300-year-old weeping plum tree, its branches cascading like a waterfall. A bit of patience is required to find it, but it’s worth the hunt! 🌸 The Hand-Washing Station’s Light and Shadow 💧 In the early morning or evening, scoop water with the wooden ladle at the temizuya (hand-washing station), capturing the reflections of the blossoms in the water. 🌸💧 #travel