Sugawara no Michizane, a renowned scholar and politician of the Heian period, is well known for his deep love of plum blossoms. One of his most famous poems, written during his exile to Dazaifu, expresses his longing for Kyoto and his beloved plum tree:
“When the east wind blows,
let it send your fragrance,
oh plum blossoms.
Even though your master is gone,
do not forget the spring.”
This poem reflects Michizane’s sorrow and nostalgia after being unjustly exiled. Legend says that his favorite plum tree in Kyoto, known as the Tobiume (“Flying Plum”), flew to Dazaifu to be with him. Today, this story is closely linked to Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, where he is enshrined as the god of learning.
