Top 10 Hydrangea Spots in Kamakura (鎌倉)
Stroll Through the Historic City as Rain-Kissed Hydrangeas Bloom
- Hase-dera Temple (長谷寺)
- Tokei-ji Temple (東慶寺)
- Myohon-ji Temple (妙本寺)
- Ichijo Ekan Sanso (一条恵観山荘)
- Eisho-ji Temple (英勝寺)
- Goryo Shrine (御霊神社)
- Engaku-ji Temple (円覚寺)
- Jochi-ji Temple (浄智寺)
- Kosoku-ji Temple (光則寺)
- Meigetsu-in Temple (明月院)
Hydrangeas in Kamakura (鎌倉)
Let the sound of rain accompany you on a magical walk through Kamakura's hydrangeas—where history and blossoms weave a serene early summer tale. From mid-June, Kamakura transforms into a painter’s canvas as hydrangeas bloom across temples, hiking trails, and coastal streets. In this guide, we present the 10 must-visit hydrangea spots in Kamakura—ranging from iconic landmarks to peaceful hidden gems. Discover peak bloom times, photo-worthy highlights, and easy access info for each location. Whether you're planning a day trip or a deeper exploration, uncover the rainy-season charm that only Kamakura can offer. Let this list be your trusted companion on a hydrangea-filled adventure.
Top Recommended Spots from a Visitor’s Perspective, Based on Overall Ratings
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Hase-dera Temple (長谷寺)
Spectacular Views Along the "Hydrangea Path" Overlooking the Sea
Best Viewing Period: Early June to early July
Hase-dera Temple boasts over 2,500 hydrangea plants across approximately 40 varieties, making it one of Kamakura's premier spots. The "Hydrangea Path" on the hillside offers a harmonious blend of colorful flowers and the blue sea of Yuigahama. Unique varieties like "Hase Shihen" and "Hase no Inori" are exclusive highlights. Visiting right after the temple opens is recommended to avoid crowds. Rainy days bring a serene ambiance, while clear days offer panoramic views of Yuigahama and Sagami Bay. -
Tokei-ji Temple (東慶寺)
Elegant Hydrangeas in a Historic Garden of Tranquility
Best Viewing Period: Late May to late June (possibly until early July)
Known historically as a "divorce temple," Tokei-ji Temple offers a tranquil setting where various hydrangeas bloom quietly in early summer. Moss-covered stone steps, an old well, and areas around the main hall feature lacecap hydrangeas, mountain hydrangeas, and Annabelle varieties. Photography is prohibited, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the flowers. The sight of rain-soaked hydrangeas blending into the landscape leaves a lasting impression. -
Myohon-ji Temple (妙本寺)
Hydrangeas Harmonizing with Vermilion Gates
Best Viewing Period: Mid-June to early July
Nestled in Kamakura's tranquility, Myohon-ji Temple becomes vibrant with hydrangeas during the season. The contrast between the vermilion Niomon Gate and blooming hydrangeas is striking, making it a perfect photo spot. Along the path to the main hall, mountain hydrangeas and ball hydrangeas bloom amidst fresh greenery, offering a peaceful atmosphere. As a lesser-known spot, it provides a quiet setting to appreciate the flowers. -
Ichijo Ekan Sanso (一条恵観山荘)
A Kyoto-Style Hydrangea Garden in Kamakura
Best Viewing Period: Late May to mid-July (peak in mid-June)
Originally built as a royal villa in Kyoto during the early Edo period, Ichijo Ekan Sanso was later relocated to Kamakura. Featuring a thatched and shingled double roof, it showcases the elegance of imperial architecture akin to Katsura and Shugakuin Imperial Villas. In early summer, about 50 hydrangea varieties bloom, including mountain hydrangeas, Western hydrangeas, and Annabelle, adorning the building and stone steps. The Annabelle-lined staircase is particularly photogenic. -
Eisho-ji Temple (英勝寺)
Serene Hydrangeas Amidst Bamboo Groves and Buddhist Halls
Best Viewing Period: Early to mid-June
Eisho-ji Temple, Kamakura's only nunnery with ties to the Tokugawa family, offers a tranquil setting enhanced during hydrangea season. While not featuring large clusters, well-maintained gardens with scattered mountain and lacecap hydrangeas harmonize beautifully with bamboo groves and Buddhist halls. Views from around the main gate and entrance are notable, providing an ideal spot for quiet flower appreciation. -
Goryo Shrine (御霊神社)
Iconic Kamakura Scene of Hydrangeas and the Enoden Train
Best Viewing Period: Early to mid-June
Goryo Shrine, a sacred place in Kamakura, displays vibrant hydrangeas during the season. The unique scene of the Enoden train passing in front of the torii gate alongside blooming hydrangeas is a renowned view, captivating visitors. Behind the shrine, the "Hydrangea Path" offers a colorful display, embodying the charm of Kamakura's rainy season. -
Engaku-ji Temple (円覚寺)
Hydrangeas Enhancing the Serenity of a Zen Temple
Best Viewing Period: Mid to late June
At Engaku-ji Temple, hydrangeas bloom quietly within the historic grounds, creating a beautiful scene amidst fresh greenery. Notable spots include the Shiratori Pond, the main gate, the path to the main hall, Butsunichian, and Obaiin, where blue-toned hydrangeas adorn the temple, offering a soothing experience. Post-rain visits reveal even more vibrant colors, ideal for photography. Its proximity to JR Kita-Kamakura Station makes early morning visits convenient. -
Jochi-ji Temple (浄智寺)
Hydrangeas Blooming in a Serene Temple Setting
Best Viewing Period: Mid to late June
Jochi-ji Temple harmonizes Kamakura's gentle history and natural beauty, with colorful hydrangeas adorning the grounds in early summer. Approximately 150 hydrangea plants across 40 varieties bloom, with lacecap hydrangeas near the Kanro-no-I well captivating visitors. The area around the bell tower gate offers a picturesque scene of historic architecture and hydrangeas, making it a popular photo spot. Its tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal place to leisurely enjoy the flowers. -
Kosoku-ji Temple (光則寺)
A Unique Garden of Potted Hydrangeas
Best Viewing Period: Mid-May to mid-June
Kosoku-ji Temple stands out with its display of potted hydrangeas, differing from other Kamakura spots. Featuring approximately 200 to 350 varieties of mountain hydrangeas, including rare and endemic species from across Japan, the temple offers a diverse collection. Each pot is labeled with names and descriptions, allowing even novices to appreciate the flowers thoroughly. The "Kiyosumi-zawa" variety is particularly noted for its color changes, attracting flower enthusiasts. -
Meigetsu-in Temple (明月院)
The Enchanting "Meigetsu-in Blue" in a Tranquil Setting
Best Viewing Period: Early to late June
Meigetsu-in (明月院) offers one of Kamakura's (鎌倉) most enchanting views during the rainy season. Around 2,500 hydrangea plants, specifically "Hime Ajisai," fill the temple grounds, creating a serene world of soft blue hues known as "Meigetsu-in Blue." The flowers glisten even more beautifully when wet with rain, adding to the peaceful and poetic atmosphere. Highlights include the view through the circular "Window of Enlightenment" and the hydrangeas lining the path leading up to the temple gate. However, due to its immense popularity, the area becomes extremely crowded during peak bloom season. Especially on weekends or sunny days, it’s not uncommon for long lines to form even before the temple opens.