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.