Admire Hydrangea Flowers in Kyoto: Uncover the Most Beautiful Ajisai Spots

First, let’s explore the cultural significance of hydrangeas in Japan. Hydrangeas, or ajisai, symbolize gratitude, heartfelt apologies, and the ever-changing nature of emotions in Japanese culture. Their ability to change color based on soil conditions mirrors the human heart’s shifts, making them a cherished motif in Japanese art and tradition. When you explore Kyoto’s hydrangea spots, you’re not just seeing flowers—you’re connecting with a deeper cultural narrative that has been part of Japan for centuries.

So when should you visit to see these flowers? In Japan, hydrangeas bloom from early June to mid-July, thriving in the country’s rainy season. This is when Kyoto’s gardens and temples come alive with vibrant ajisai displays. The best time to visit is mid-June, when the flowers are at their peak and the prefecture is transformed into a colorful haven of blues, pinks, and purples. Don’t forget your umbrella, as the rainy weather only enhances the beauty of these resilient blooms. Now that you know the perfect time to see hydrangeas, let’s discover the best places in Kyoto to appreciate their beauty.

The Mimurotoji temple in Uji is famous for its expansive hydrangea garden, home to approximately 20,000 hydrangea plants of various colors and species. Known as Ajisai-dera (the hydrangea temple), it is definitely a must-visit. Additionally, you can even take home a pretty charm of heart-shaped hydrangeas, as the essence of the beauty of this temple. Also, you can enjoy a fantastic nighttime illumination of the garden for a limited time.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy your time. Around late June to early August, lotus flowers (which bloom in the morning) can be seen in front of the main hall, as well. The temple offers various other beautiful flowers, such as weeping plums around late February to March, and azaleas around April to early May. Enjoy a stroll along the garden paths, surrounded by a profusion of flowers.

Hours:
April 1 – October 31: 8:30am – 4:30pm (last admission: 3:40pm)
November 1 – March 31: 8:30am – 4:00pm (last admission: 3:10pm)

Admission:
General 1,000 yen; Child 500 yen

Access:
From Mimurodo Station (Keihan Uji Line), walk for 15 minutes or take a taxi

Yokoku-ji Temple, also known as Yanagidani Kannon, is a serene location that feels worlds away from the busy city. The temple is famed for its spiritual ambiance and ajisai garden, which is set against a backdrop of forested hills. Nestled on the mountainside, the inner temple building and main hall are linked by a long corridor that overlooks Jodo-en, a scenic garden recognized as a designated attraction by Kyoto.

Over 4,500 hydrangeas bloom here, and the cool, shaded environment makes it a perfect escape during the summer heat. The temple’s quiet paths and fewer crowds provide a tranquil setting where you can take your time to enjoy the flowers. Don’t miss the small pond surrounded by hydrangeas, offering a perfect photo opportunity.

Hours:
9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Reception closes at 4:30 p.m.)

Access:
From Hankyu Nishiyama-Tennozan Station:
Take the Hankyu bus to the nearest stop, “Oku-Kaiinji.” From there, it’s about a 40-minute walk to the mountain.

From JR Nagaokakyo Station:
Take the bus service from JR Nagaokakyo Station via the Hankyu Bus to the nearest stop, “Oku-Kaiinji.” From there, it’s about a 40-minute walk to the mountain.

On the 17th of every month, shuttle buses depart from the east exit of Hankyu Nishiyama-Tennozan Station and the west exit of JR Nagaokakyo Station.

Gansenji Temple, an ancient temple in the Kyoto Tea Country region, offers a peaceful and intimate setting for hydrangea viewing. The name “Gansenji” translates literally to “Rock Boat Temple,” and near the entrance of the temple is a boat-shaped rock, where legend has it that monks used it for sacred cleansing rituals. Nestled in the mountains in the southern part of Kyoto, close to Nara, it takes about an hour by car from Kyoto Station. It is also accessible by train and bus from Kyoto City.

Surrounded by dense forest, this hidden treasure creates a serene atmosphere that feels like a secret garden. It is home to a rich variety of flowering plants, such as crape myrtle, water lily, Japanese plum and cherry trees, and more. The temple is exceptionally beautiful after a light rain, with glistening flowers and their delicate scent. In January, April, May, October, and November, you might be able to admire hidden Buddhist statues and treasures.

In the rainy season, hydrangeas in shades of light blue, purple and pink adorn the pathway. The Three-storied Pagoda offers a particularly stunning sight with colorful hydrangeas. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a unique experience away from bustling tourist spots. Add Gansenji Temple to your itinerary and immerse yourself in its tranquility and fascinating hydrangeas.

Hours:
March – November: 8:30am – 5:00pm (last admission: 4:45pm)
December – February: 9:00am – 4:00pm (last admission: 3:45pm)

Access:
Kamo Station (JR Kansai Line, Yamatoji Line) can be reached from Kyoto Station via rapid train. It takes about an hour, with a single transfer at Kizu Station. From Kamo Station, take Kizugawa City Community Bus towards Kamoyamanoie for about 16 minutes, and get off at Gansen-ji Temple.

Tanshu Kannon-ji Temple, also known as Tamba Ajisai-dera, is located in the rural outskirts of Kyoto and is renowned for its hillside hydrangea garden. Over 10,000 ajisai plants cover the slopes, creating a stunning cascade of colors that can be seen from the temple entrance.

The temple is also famed for its eleven-faced Kannon statue, known for its healing abilities, as well as its blessings for good fortune and road safety. This location is perfect for a leisurely day trip, offering both beautiful flower displays and a chance to explore the less-traveled areas of Kyoto. There are small rest areas along the hillside path where you can sit and take in the views, making it a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Additionally, the temple hosts an annual Hydrangea Festival on the fourth Sunday in June, featuring a variety of activities and events. Plan your visit to Tanshu Kannon-ji Temple today and immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of its hydrangea garden.

Hours:
9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Access:
From JR Fukuchiyama Stn. or Ayabe Stn., take a bus for 15 minutes to “Kannonji” bus stop, and walk for 10 min.

Maizuru Nature and Cultural Park is a scenic outdoor destination that combines natural beauty with cultural experiences. The park offers scenic views of the distant sea from its hilltop location. It also features over 100,000 hydrangea plants, spread across winding walking trails. Although hydrangeas bloom in mid-June, visitors flock to the park earlier to experience the camellia forest.

For a truly immersive experience, follow the ajisai trail, which winds through the park’s most scenic areas, offering stunning views of the flowers alongside ponds and traditional Japanese structures. It’s a great spot for families and those looking to enjoy both nature and culture in one visit.

Hours:
March to September 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
October to February 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.　
※Last admission is 30 minutes before closing
※※Only open to the public during the hydrangea and camellia exhibitions.

Fees:
500 yen for adults and 250 yen for children during the blooming season

Access:
From JR Higashi Maizuru Station, get on the Kyoto Kotsu Bus Mihama Line, and get off at “Natural Culture Garden” bus stop

Yoshimine-dera Temple offers a combination of breathtaking views and beautiful hydrangeas, set high on the slopes of the Nishiyama mountain range. The expansive grounds, covering almost 25 acres, boast gardens that are perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll and provide a scenic overlook of Kyoto city. One standout feature is the “Yuryu no Matsu,” a pine tree that, although only around 2 meters tall, spreads more than 37 meters wide.

The temple grounds feature colorful hydrangea plants, with paths that lead you through vibrant displays. The grounds are a great place to enjoy seasonal flowers throughout the year as well. Visiting Yoshimine-dera during hydrangea season provides a unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual serenity. Make sure to stop by.

Hours:
8:00 am to 5:00 pm (Admission until 4:45 pm)

Fees:
Adult: 500 yen
Children: High school students – 300 yen, elementary and junior high school students – 200 yen

Access:
From “Mukomachi” station on the JR Kyoto line, take the Hankyu bus (bound for Yoshimine-dera) and get off at “Yoshimine-dera,” then walk for 8 minutes.
From “Higashimuko” station on the Hankyu Kyoto line, take the Hankyu bus (bound for Yoshimine-dera) and get off at “Yoshimine-dera”, then walk for 8 minutes.

For a quieter, more intimate hydrangea experience, Horyu-ji Toko-in Temple is a small temple tucked away from the main tourist trails of Kyoto.In early June, the temple transforms with 2,500 hydrangeas in full bloom, adding a splash of color to the grounds. Its ajisai garden, though modest in size, is beautifully maintained and offers a peaceful retreat where you can appreciate the flowers in a calm setting.

At the same time, the Furin (wind chime) Festival takes place, featuring 750 wind chimes hanging in the square by the main shrine. Their gentle tinkling creates a tranquil atmosphere as they sway with the wind. With its quiet atmosphere and fewer visitors, this temple is perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed and reflective flower-viewing experience. It’s a hidden gem that captures the understated beauty of Kyoto’s hydrangea season.

Hours:
*During festivals 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Access:
From Ayabe Stn. on the JR Sanin Line, take the Aya Bus, get off at “Uwanobucho Hattan” bus stop, and walk for 15 min.