Plum trees that have just started to bloom are delighting visitors at an annual festival at the Kairakuen garden in Mito City, north of Tokyo.

The festival began on Tuesday. Kairakuen, which is widely regarded as one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan, has about 3,000 plum trees featuring around 100 varieties.

Officials said the trees are blooming later than usual due to a cold spell that began last week. But people can still view the pink and white blossoms of the early-blooming types.

"Plum ambassadors" promoting the city's tourism welcomed visitors. People strolled through the park, enjoying the view and taking photos.

A six-year-old girl visiting the garden with her family from Tokyo said she came to see the plum blossoms because she likes the color pink. She said all the flowers are pretty.

Plum ambassador Kimijima Karen said the flowers are gradually blooming, and she senses that spring is approaching. She said she hopes many people will enjoy the charm of the plum blossoms.

The festival will be held through March 20. Dried sweet potatoes, a local specialty, are available for purchase at the festival. Other events are also planned.