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| Image: Joy Xu/pexels.com |
Japan’s hydrangea season is officially underway. The popular flower, known as ajisai in Japanese, has a rich history in this county and was mentioned in written records here as far back as the eighth century. The European varieties were then introduced in the early 20th century. They usually bloom during the rainy season in June or July, though, due to differences of climate and soil, dates vary from region to region.
This is only a guideline, and blooming dates may change due to changes in weather.
Mimurotoji Temple
Built around 1,200 years ago, Mimurotoji Temple is currently known as Kansai’s hydrangea paradise. Legend foretold that in the 8th century, Emperor Konin saw an unusual beam of light and found a huge Kannon Bosatsu statue in the Uji River after traveling for several days. Konin built the temple to enshrine the miniature-sized Kannon statues. Mimurotoji Temple boasts around 20,000 hydrangeas in 50 varieties. Visitors can also enjoy hydrangea-themed sweets and treats in the tea house located in the middle of the garden.
Hydrangea garden will open and be lit up in the evenings!
Admission fee: 1,000 yen for adults, 500 yen for children
June 8th (Sat) – 23rd (Sun), 2024 *Saturdays and Sundays only
Fujinomori Shrine
Located in southern Kyoto, Fujinomori Shrine is said to have been founded by Empress Jingu before Kyoto became Japan’s capital. The origin of Children’s Day was born here. In June, it opens its hydrangea garden to the public. Split into two, it surrounds the north and south of the shrine. There are 3,500 pink, white, blue and purple hydrangeas and the shrine also holds an annual hydrangea festival which includes special prayers and performances.
Hydrangea garden will open and Hydrangea Festival will be held
June 1st (Sat) – 30th (Sun), 2024
Admission Fee – 500-yen per person
Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa
Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa is located to the south side of Shimogamo Jinja Shrine. It was established by Hachiro-emon Takamine, the 10th head of the Mitsui Kita Familiy (the head family of all the eleven Mitsui Families), as a villa for all the Mitsui Families. The family had built the Akina Rei-sha Shrine in 1909 in order to enshrine the spirit of their ancestors on this site.
A superb and beautifully tended moss garden spreads out in front of the building. There is a gourd-shape pond on the south side that draws water from the Izumi-gawa stream. The stone bridge is set above the pond to the south, curving stroll paths follow and small artificial hills on which stone lanterns and large Kurama-ishi rocks are distributed.
Hydrangea garden will open (free admission to garden)
June 15th (Sat) – 16th (Sun), 2024
Maizuru Nature and Cultural Park
Another popular spot in the Kansai region, visitors can enjoy 100,000 hydrangeas at the Maizuru Nature and Cultural Park. It’s nicknamed the Sea of Hydrangeas, as blue, white and purple hydrangeas blossom throughout the grounds. Visitors can also enjoy watching hydrangeas being replanted or plant them themselves. There are then mini-performances and other fun activities.
Admission Fee – 500-yen per person
June 1st (Sat) – 30th (Sun), 2024
PRO TIPS: Aside from observing the local rules and guide, don't forget to bring your own water bottle to keep you hydrated. Take your camera with you to capture these gorgeous hydrangeas, and don't forget to be respectful to all guests.
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