Hydrangeas of Enoshima Shrine (江島神社)
Discover the Hydrangeas at Enoshima Shrine (江島神社)
Floating off the Shonan coast, the island of Enoshima is home to Enoshima Shrine (江島神社), where hydrangeas bloom each June. As you walk along the paths connecting the three shrine halls—Hetsu-no-miya, Nakatsu-no-miya, and Okutsu-no-miya—you’ll find yourself surrounded by vibrant clusters of purple, blue, and pink. These floral corridors, appearing only during the rainy season, create a serene atmosphere perfect for a peaceful stroll.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
The best time to enjoy the hydrangeas at Enoshima Shrine (江島神社) is from early to late June. Coinciding with Japan’s rainy season, the petals glisten beautifully when wet, making both sunny and rainy days equally photogenic. For peak bloom, aim for mid-June when the colors are at their most vivid.
Photo Highlights and Must-See Spots
One of the most photogenic spots is the path to the right of Okutsu-no-miya Hall (奥津宮), where large hydrangea blooms form a tunnel-like trail. The colorful gradient of varieties makes for enchanting photos. At Nakatsu-no-miya Hall (中津宮), the vivid red of the shrine’s main building contrasts beautifully with the surrounding purple-blue flowers—another favorite among photographers. The adjacent square offers a spacious area to relax and enjoy the floral scenery.
Embrace the Quiet Hours of Morning
Compared to well-known hydrangea temples like Meigetsuin or Hase-dera Temple, Enoshima Shrine (江島神社) is less crowded, allowing for a calm and intimate viewing experience. In the early morning, dew-covered petals shimmer in the soft light, creating a sacred atmosphere. Guests staying at Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス) can take advantage of the flexible schedule offered by a self-catering stay and visit before breakfast to experience the tranquility without the crowds.
How to Get There from Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス)
From Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス), it’s about a 15-minute walk from either Enoshima Station (江ノ島駅) on the Enoden Line or Shonan-Enoshima Station (湘南江の島駅) on the Shonan Monorail. Be prepared for slopes and stairs on the island—wear comfortable shoes. If needed, the Eshima Escar (江の島エスカー, paid escalator) helps you bypass over 250 steps and reach the shrine area more easily. Morning or evening visits are especially rewarding for those enjoying a stay nearby.
Wrap-Up: Hydrangeas and a Local Way to Experience Kamakura
At Enoshima Shrine (江島神社), hydrangeas bloom in harmony with the island’s legends, spirituality, and natural beauty. Wander through floral tunnels near Okutsu-no-miya Hall (奥津宮), admire the vivid contrast of hydrangeas and vermilion architecture at Nakatsu-no-miya Hall (中津宮), and enjoy the rainy season’s peaceful air. Discover a different side of Kamakura as you explore at your own pace with a local-style visit.
Toshi’s Evaluation (May 2025)
| Evaluation Item | Score | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Scenery | 8 | The harmony between the historic shrine buildings, the island’s natural scenery, and hydrangeas is beautiful, with great photo opportunities featuring the sea and flowers. However, the scale and density of the hydrangeas are not as impressive as other famous spots in Kamakura (鎌倉) such as Hase-dera Temple (長谷寺) and Meigetsu-in Temple (明月院). |
| Accessibility | 7 | It’s about a 15–20 minute walk from the nearest station. The island has many stairs and slopes. The use of the escalator (Escar) is possible, but during busy times there can be long waits, making it somewhat challenging for those with limited stamina. |
| Historical Value | 9 | Enoshima Shrine (江島神社) holds great historical and cultural value as a religious site. Although there is no direct historical link to hydrangeas, the site has strong appeal as a tourist destination. |
| Comfort | 6 | There are few rest areas and toilets, and it tends to get crowded on weekends and holidays. The many slopes and stairs also detract somewhat from the overall comfort. |
| Reviews | 7 | Ratings on Google Maps and social media are generally positive, but many users note the “modest scale of hydrangeas” and “challenging access,” resulting in slightly lower scores compared to other famous locations. |
Total Score: 37
The hydrangeas at Enoshima Shrine (江島神社) are appealing for their harmony with the historic buildings and island atmosphere. While other spots in Kamakura (鎌倉) may surpass it in terms of scale and comfort, it is a recommended destination for those who value scenic beauty and historical significance.