— The "Tobiume" of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine — "When the east wind blows, send your fragrance to me, plum blossoms — do not forget spring, even without your master." The plum blossom was the flower most beloved by Sugawara no Michizane, who had deep ties to Dazaifu. This poem was composed as he departed from the capital for Dazaifu, gazing at the plum tree blooming in his garden. According to legend, the plum tree — longing so deeply for its master — flew through the sky overnight to reach Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, giving rise to the legend of the "Tobiume" (Flying Plum). The sacred "Tobiume" tree, standing to the right of the main hall of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, still blooms first among all six thousand plum trees on the grounds, heralding the arrival of spring. [Scent character] The fragrance of plum blossoms blooming in Dazaifu in early spring.
