By: Little Traveler
Japan offers different flowers to admire throughout the year. After the cherry blossom season comes the rainy season, which also signals the upcoming bloom of hydrangeas. Compared to traveling deep into the mountains for flower viewing, Kamakura in Kanagawa Prefecture — a suburb just an hour away from Tokyo — is much more accessible. Along the Enoden railway line, you can see temples covered in varying shades of blue hydrangeas, bringing extraordinary vibrancy to the usually solemn and subdued temples!
1. Meigetsu-in Temple
Meigetsu-in, one of the earliest places in Kamakura to enjoy flowers, is also known as the "Hydrangea Temple." The temple grounds are planted with 2,500 ancient Japanese varieties of "ajisai," displaying rich hues of blue, purple, and light blue hydrangeas that create a striking contrast against the otherwise stern and somber atmosphere of the temple. Especially photogenic is the iconic circular window surrounded by hydrangeas, offering a dreamy bokeh background. While it gets quite crowded during peak season, arriving early on weekdays helps you enjoy the hydrangea scenery peacefully. Related reading:Travel Info for Meigetsu-in
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2. Jōju-in Temple
With ocean views and a hydrangea staircase, Jōju-in attracts visitors from around the world every flowering season. By climbing the 108 steps of the Tōgakyō entrance leading up to the temple, you can enjoy the spectacular view of hydrangeas alongside the Shōnan coastline. Compared to Meigetsu-in, which is dominated by blue blooms, Jōju-in features a wider variety of colors such as purple, white, crimson, and pink — making it bustling with crowds despite its smaller size.
Related reading:Travel Info for Jōju-in
3. Hase-dera Temple
Among the three temples, Hase-dera is the most popular. Visiting from mid-June, especially right after the rain, offers particularly stunning hydrangea displays. A path behind the Kannon Hall is lined with 2,500 hydrangea plants, and from the observation deck near the main hall, you can enjoy views of Kamakura’s seaside. To avoid the crowds, try to visit on a weekday before noon.
Related reading:Travel Info for Hase-dera
However, the hydrangea blooming period is quite short, lasting only until early July at the latest — with the earliest blooms appearing in early June. If you're planning to go, make sure to plan your trip accordingly!
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