The establishment processes of plum-blossom viewing in the Minabe town, Wakayama Pref.

Abstract

The landscape in the rural district is strongly connected with the climate in the area; in addition, the area’s natural development is linked to characteristics of the available cultural resources. Therefore, we consider it significant to understand the aspects that have led to the area's rise as a famous tourist attraction, and to study its important features. In this research, we investigated plum blossom viewing in Minabe town, Wakayama Prefecture. Our research showed that cultivation of plums started during the early Edo period in Minabe town. Plum blossom viewing during this period was enjoyed not only for its visual appeal, but also for its scent. The event moved from the central plum plantation to the hillside over time. As a result, plum-blossom viewing, which promoted the area’s visual beauty, became prominent. During the Taisho and Showa period, the plum plantation in Minabe town changed significantly. In particular, the plum plantation expanded via the cultivation of a superior type of plum known as “nanko-ume,” and the establishment of the Minabe-Plum-Valley Development Association, which was significantly influential. Moreover, it can be said that the plum blossom viewing event, which came to be attended by the whole town, became famous because the large plum plantation in the neighborhood took the lead in creating a plum blossom viewing area.