Hydrangea Frontline Forecast: Top 10 Hydrangea Viewing Spots in Japan

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Department

In recent years, there has been a surge in hydrangea viewing enthusiasm. In addition to Taiwan, which boasts numerous hydrangea spots, Japan also offers must-visit hydrangea destinations. The spectacular sight of blooming hydrangea balls rivals that of spring cherry blossoms and autumn maple leaves.

Based on average observations over the past few years, Okinawa sees hydrangeas bloom from late May to early June, Kyushu, Shikoku, Kansai, and Chugoku from early to mid-June, Kanto from late May to mid-June, and Hokkaido to Tohoku from early July to mid-August.

Top 10 Hydrangea Spots in Japan:
 
1. Iwate Prefecture – Rikuchu Hydrangea Garden
Rikuchu Hydrangea Garden is the largest in eastern Japan, covering an area equivalent to three Tokyo Domes, with 30,000 hydrangea plants of 300 varieties in full bloom. Surrounded by cedar forests, strolling through the garden offers a relaxing experience for the mind and body.
 
Address: 111 Maigawarazawa, Ichinoseki, Iwate Prefecture
Business hours: 9:00 – 17:00 (last entry at 16:30)
Blooming period: Late June to late July

2. W?裣?– Uminonakamichi Seaside Park (Note: Assuming "W?裣?" refers to Uminonakamichi based on context)
Located atop Mt. Minoyama, Uminonakamichi Seaside Park features different floral landscapes throughout the seasons. In June, 4,500 hydrangea plants come into bloom. The 360-degree view not only showcases the sea of flowers but also offers vistas of the sea of clouds and sunrise.
 
Blooming period: Late June to early July

3. Tokyo – Hakusan Shrine
Hakusan Shrine is a renowned hydrangea spot in Tokyo, located in Bunkyo Ward, which still retains the nostalgic charm of old Showa-era streets. Every June, nearly 3,000 hydrangeas within the shrine grounds burst into bloom, and the local Bunkyo Hydrangea Festival is also held.
 
Address: 5-31-26 Hakusan, Bunkyo, Tokyo
Blooming season: Mid-June to late June