Blossoming Flowers of Daruma Temple

A refreshing breeze of fresh green in Hokusetsu

By Masayoshi Hirose

Community writer

Translated by Justin Velgus

Community writer

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At Katsuo Temple, each and every Rhododendron flower is grand in both size and appearance (Photo: Masayoshi Hirose)

When Hydrangeas bloom, it means the rainy season will soon begin (Photo: Masayoshi Hirose)

A picture taken in front of the two-storied pagoda during my visit in May. The reds and pinks of the Rhododendron come to life once reaching a full bloom (Photo: Masayoshi Hirose)

Every which way you look, the greens of Mother Nature invite your gaze (Photo: Masayoshi Hirose)

Vivid day lilies (Photo: Masayoshi Hirose)

As usual, you can find these Daruma dolls everywhere around here (Photo: Masayoshi Hirose)

Gentle colors and textures (Photo: Masayoshi Hirose)

The Lucky Daruma Temple, Katsuoji, has not only autumn leaves, but various flowers to enjoy year round.

Admire the Cherry Blossom, Rhododendron, and Hydrangea Festivals with a rejuvenating sense of freshness which changes with the seasons.

My visit was a little too late to see the cherry trees blossom, but I decided to visit twice to get the opportunity to admire the flowers. Around May 20th I marveled at the beauty of the Rhododendron. Then at the beginning of June I took in the magnificence of the Hydrangea and day lilies after a light rain.

I felt my body was showering in the fragrance of the green leaves while my spirit was left with a sense that it had been purified. Truly, a visit to this temple is to not only connect with Buddhist deities, but to enjoy the blessings of nature itself.