Selected as one of the Top 10 Photographers of the Tokyo Camera Club, Takahiro Bessho has been known to seek out and capture hidden gems of utterly breathtaking sceneries in Japan. While the onset of spring has triggered a rush of early celebrations of the highly anticipated sakura season, Bessho has chosen to await the blooming of cherry blossoms by traveling to the many — but lesser known — spots that boast stunning views of Japanese plum blossoms (Japanese apricot) found throughout the country.

Ume flowers bloom earlier than sakura, and those captivated by their beauty visit famous plum viewing areas to feast their eyes on this springtime gift. Many of the most popular locations feature large weeping plum trees that have the appearance of pink fireworks, only they're the gorgeous products of Mother Nature and can be appreciated both during the day and night.

Bessho has taken to Twitter to share some of his favorite plum blossoms he's seen so far this year. Even the seasoned photographer, who has no doubt seen a plethora of beautiful sceneries throughout his career, has expressed his sheer amazement at their beauty — and it certainly isn't hard to see why.

Nabana no Sato (Mie Prefecture)

Weeping Plum Trees in Yagi (Awaji Island)

Mori Garden in Suzuka (Mie Prefecture)

You can see more of Bessho's photographs on Twitter. The photographer will also be presenting a number of his works at the Tokyo Camera Club Exhibition in Hikarie Shibuya from April 28th to May 6th.

It's not too late to plan a day-trip to these plum blossom viewing spots either, so if you're still waiting for the sakura to start blooming in your area, you might consider visiting these picturesque weeping plum trees.