Baikasai Plum Blossom Festival

A fantastic opportunity to see one of Kyoto’s most beautiful temples, with stunning plum blossom, tea ceremonies and even Geisha – this is an unmissable event. The grounds are filled with aged plum blossom trees and are celebrated annually, but on this one specific day Maiko (the apprentices to Geiko, who are the Geisha of Kyoto) serve tea outdoors to lucky participants. Tickets cost 1,500 yen and it is limited to 3,000 people, so arrive early to ensure you don’t miss out. It’s a great chance to see them close up without forking out for a private dinner! This day also coincides with the monthly market held at the shrine, so you can enjoy plum-themed goods from local vendors as you enjoy the 2000 trees.

(Lily Crossley-Baxter)