Hydrangeas, or ajisai in Japanese, are one of the highlights of rainy season. This guide covers some fantastic destinations to enjoy these flowers across Kanagawa Prefecture.
Meigetsu-in
One of the most iconic ajisai views in all of Japan can be found at Meigetsu-in Temple, aptly known as the hydrangea temple. The flowers here are usually at their best around mid-June, and they fill the grounds with beautiful pops of blue against the rainy season's fresh greenery. Outside of hydrangea season, the temple is also renowned for having some fantastic autumn foliage.
189 Yamanouchi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 247-0062
Kaisei Town
Hydrangeas are such a big part of the culture in Kaisei that even the town's mascot is themed in honor of them, and if you visit during June there are around 5000 of the flowers blooming in a space equivalent to around 3 and a half Tokyo Domes. The area is also dotted with newly planted rice fields during that timeframe, adding to the picturesque scenery.
Updates on when the town's annual hydrangea festival is held can be found on the official event website.
Hasedera
With approximately 2500 hydrangea plants covering 40 different species, it's perhaps no surprise that Hasedera is often referred to as "the flower temple." It's not just hydrangeas that there are to enjoy here, though – at other times of year there are daffodils, sakura, wisteria, lotuses, and spider lilies to appreciate, and that's not even a complete list.
3 Chome-11-2 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0016
Jojuin Temple
Originally built in 1219, Kamakura's Jojuin Temple is known for having some incredible views out over Yuigihama Beach from its grounds. Though the walk to the temple includes quite a few stairs to reach, the path is lined with colorful hydrangeas in various shades during the month of June. It's recommended to visit early in the morning if you want to try and snap a few photos without other flower-seekers in your shots!
1 Chome-1-5 Gokurakuji, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0023
Sagamihara Kita Park
If you're looking for a pleasant hydrangea spot to enjoy with the whole family, Sagamihara Kita Park fits the bill. With children's play equipment, a duck pond, and picnic tables, the park is a great destination to enjoy with little ones in tow even outside the blooming season. From June through early July, though, visitors can appreciate the beauty of 10,000 hydrangeas in around 200 types on the grounds, including both Japanese and Western species.
2368-1 Shimokuzawa, Midori Ward, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0134
Sometimes I consider moving there - it's got a vibrant arts community, and it's easily walkable and bikeable. And it's so easy to get into Tokyo or reach the gorgeous countryside from there.