Limited to the rainy season!

In spring, people flock to Japan for cherry blossoms, and in autumn for maple leaves. In recent years, chasing "hydrangeas," known as "绣球花" in Taiwan, has become popular. Compared to the peak cherry blossom season, hydrangeas require rain to thrive, making them a rainy season (June to July) exclusive. Their small blue and pink petals cling closely together, also symbolizing the arrival of early summer in Japan. This is the most beautiful time for hydrangeas. According to FunTime, here are 6 must-visit hydrangea spots in Japan—start planning your next trip now!

1. Kyoto – Zenpuku-ji Temple

Located in Kyoto, Zenpuku-ji Temple’s Shanzanen Garden is also a famous hydrangea viewing spot. When the hydrangeas are in full bloom, they always attract large crowds. Shanzanen Garden boasts a variety of hydrangeas, including Western hydrangeas, bigleaf hydrangeas, and mountain hydrangeas, with up to 10,000 plants. Behind the garden lies the Kyoto Basin, offering breathtaking views that never get old. If there's heavy fog, the moisture on the hydrangeas makes their colors even more vibrant, creating a surreal scene!

In Kamakura, Japan, there are three famous hydrangea spots: Meigetsu-in, Hase-dera Temple, and Jōchō-ji Temple. Hase-dera is renowned for its vast number of hydrangeas. (Photo from Hase-dera official website)

2. Kamakura – Hase-dera Temple

"Go to Kamakura to see hydrangeas!" In Kamakura, Japan, there are three famous hydrangea spots: Meigetsu-in, Hase-dera Temple, and Jōchō-ji Temple. Hase-dera is especially known for its abundance of hydrangeas, with over 2,500 plants and about 40 varieties. Not only do they come in blue, pink, and white, but their shapes and sizes also vary greatly. Paired with the scenic beauty of the shrine, it attracts endless streams of visitors every year. Both Japanese and foreign tourists love it, making it very lively!

On the shores of Yuu-ike Pond in Nagasaki Prefecture, beautiful hydrangeas quietly bloom. (Photo from sinyuhotel.co.jp)

3. Nagasaki Prefecture – Yuu-ike Pond

Yuu-ike Pond in Nagasaki Prefecture is an artificial lake with a serene environment. Covering a total area of 2.7 km², at the beginning of summer, the pond’s shores quietly burst into bloom with gorgeous hydrangeas. Ten thousand hydrangeas compete in a vibrant display, set against the emerald-green surface of the lake, forming a rare and healing sight.

Iwate’s Rokkō Hydrangea Garden boasts the largest scale in all of Japan. (Photo from japan-attractions.jp)

4. Iwate – Rokkō Hydrangea Garden

When it comes to summer hydrangea viewing, you can’t miss Rokkō Hydrangea Garden. Nestled within a vast cedar forest, the garden spans an area equivalent to three Tokyo Domes and features 300 varieties of hydrangeas, with up to 30,000 plants. It holds the title for the largest scale in all of Japan. The garden is well-equipped with rest facilities, so while enjoying the flowers, you can also breathe in phytoncides and immerse yourself in nature’s scenery. The fresh air is incredibly refreshing!

During the Hydrangea Festival, lights stay on at night, creating a dreamlike, colorful sea of flowers where you can even see fireflies. (Photo from Yahagura Onsen official website)

5. Aichi – Yahagura Onsen Hydrangea Village

Yahagura Onsen, which emerges from the shores of Mikawa Bay, is also known as the Hydrangea Village. Every June, 50,000 hydrangeas bloom along both sides of the pathways, covering the gentle slopes. From the slopes, you can not only admire the beautiful hydrangeas but also gaze out at Owami Bay and see Mikawa Island. Every summer, the area attracts not only many flower-viewing visitors but also those looking to enjoy the water. Some even come specially for the Hydrangea Festival. During the event, lights stay on at night, creating a fantastical, colorful sea of flowers where you can even see fireflies—a view completely different from the daytime that’s truly captivating.

On Daisen Plateau in Tokushima Prefecture, there are up to 30,000 hydrangeas spread across gentle slopes covered in vibrant blue blooms. (Photo from Tokushima Prefecture Tourism Association)

6. Tokushima Prefecture – Daisen Plateau

The last spot to introduce is Daisen Plateau in Tokushima Prefecture. This plateau is home to up to 30,000 hydrangeas, with gentle slopes blanketed in brilliant blue flower seas. They complement the lush green forests and hills, while the majestic sea of clouds paired with each tiny bloom creates an unforgettable, spectacular view.

Helpful Tip:

Since the hydrangea season is limited to the rainy season, remember to bring a clear umbrella when viewing hydrangeas. Even if it rains, you can still enjoy the colorful hydrangeas, and it will also make for a convenient and charming photo prop.