The rainy season is coming to Japan, but the gentle rain makes the Kyoto scenery even more fantastic. Enjoy the charms of Kyoto that can only be felt during this season by touring quiet temples and gardens, accompanied by the sound of the rain.

Here are 4 of our favorite spots for green maples and hydrangeas in Kyoto Prefecture to get you started♪

Nariai-ji Temple – Kyoto by the Sea

This famous temple in Miyazu City stands as if watching over Amanohashidate. Its spectacular vermilion and gold five-story pagoda is impressive. The panoramic observation deck on the temple grounds is home to Cafe Bijin Saryo, where you can enjoy tea and sweets along with the spectacular view♪

Access: After getting off at Amanohashidate Station on the Kyoto Tango Railway, take a taxi for about 25 minutes or a boat, cable car, and mountain climbing bus for about 50 minutes

Ryuonji Temple – Woodland Kyoto

Ryuonji Temple in Nantan City, as its name suggests, sits among quiet mountains. The temple grounds and the approach to the temple are characterized by the rows of maple trees. During this time of year, the paths are lined by the fresh green leaves of the trees, surrounding you in refreshing greenery!

Access: Get off at Sonobe Station on the JR Sagano Line, 5 minutes walk from “Nie” bus stop on the Keihan Kyoto Kotsu Bus Sonoshin Line.

Yoshiminedera Temple – Kyoto Otokuni Bamboo Grove

Located in Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto City, this temple is said to bring good luck and protection from misfortune. In the vast temple grounds, the Hakusan Hydrangea Garden contains around 8,000 hydrangeas. From the hilltop, you can get a great panoramic view of Kyoto city. Not only is it beautiful on sunny days, but on rainy days, the hydrangeas seem to float amongst the mist.

Access: About 15-20 minutes by taxi from JR Mukomachi Station or Hankyu Higashi-Muko Station/Hankyu Nagaoka Tenjin Station (approximately 3,000 yen).
*Until May 31, 2025 you can also take the following bus route↓
Get off at JR Mukomachi Station or Hankyu Higashi-Muko Station, take Hankyu Bus No. 66 (bound for Zenbouji) for 30 minutes, then walk for 8 minutes from the last stop, Zenbouji

Mimurotoji Temple – Kyoto Tea Country

Mimurotoji Temple in Uji City is an ancient temple that was established during the Nara period and is located on the mountainside north of the Uji River. The garden on the south side of the temple is filled with over 20,000 hydrangeas, creating a beautiful view that fills every nook and cranny of the temple. It is a charming place where you can enjoy colorful hydrangeas while taking a leisurely stroll.
Access: 15 minutes walk from Mimuroto Station on the Keihan Uji Line, or take a bus or taxi from Uji Station on the JR Nara Line.

Photos provided by Amanohashidate Fuchu Tourism Association, Nantan City Tourism Association , Mimuroto Temple
Reporting cooperation: Yoshiminedera
・Visit The Kyoto Tourism Federation website for more great hydrangea spots♪
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