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

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.