Hydrangeas at Jomyoji Temple (浄妙寺)
Hydrangeas in Bloom at Jomyoji Temple (浄妙寺)
Ranked fifth among Kamakura’s Five Great Zen Temples, Jomyoji Temple (浄妙寺) comes alive with color each June as approximately 160 hydrangea bushes bloom across its grounds. You’ll find around seven to eight varieties, including lacecap, mountain, and Annabelle hydrangeas, each showcasing unique hues that signal the season’s transition. Whether it’s the tranquil blooms near the main hall, the snow-white Annabelles by the Western-style residence, or the quiet mountain trail adorned with delicate mountain hydrangeas, every scene invites peaceful admiration.
When to Visit｜Peak Bloom Season
Hydrangeas at Jomyoji begin blooming in early June. Lacecap and mountain hydrangeas reach their peak by mid-June, while elegant white Annabelles steal the spotlight from mid to late June, surrounding the Ishigama Garden Terrace in full bloom. Since Annabelles require no pruning, they can be enjoyed through early July. For a more serene experience, weekday mornings offer the perfect chance to appreciate the flowers in a calm, dewy setting.
Must-See Spots and Photo Opportunities
There are three main areas to enjoy hydrangeas at Jomyoji. Around the main hall, traditional lacecap and mountain hydrangeas enhance the temple’s Zen ambiance. In front of the Western-style residence, snow-white Annabelles offer a stunning contrast that’s popular with photographers. The “Mountain Hydrangea Path,” a 100-meter forested trail, features blue-toned blooms in a peaceful woodland setting—ideal for a tranquil stroll.
Embrace Quiet Mornings with Nature
Starting your day among hydrangeas at Jomyoji is a uniquely calming experience in Kamakura. With the flexibility of a smart hotel stay, guests at Tosh’s Place(トシズプレイス) can easily reach the temple via Kamakura Station before or after breakfast. At the Ishigama Garden Terrace café, designed by Scottish garden designer Nicholas Rennahan, you can enjoy a seasonal afternoon tea while gazing at a harmonious fusion of Japanese and Western aesthetics.
Access｜How to Visit from Tosh’s Place(トシズプレイス)
From Kamakura Station, take a bus to the “Jomyoji” stop, then walk about 3 minutes. Tosh’s Place(トシズプレイス) guests can reach Kamakura Station easily, making this a convenient morning outing. Early hours are less crowded, offering excellent photo ops and peaceful garden strolls. The on-site Kisen-an teahouse also serves matcha, allowing you to savor both nature and culture.
Conclusion｜Live Like a Local, Discover Seasonal Blooms
A visit to Jomyoji’s hydrangeas offers more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersive experience of Kamakura’s history, nature, and tranquility. With three unique viewing areas—the main hall, garden, and hillside trail—you’ll find rich variety and peaceful beauty. Slow morning walks and serene tea breaks turn a day trip into a deeply memorable encounter with seasonal charm.
Toshi’s Evaluation (May 2025)
| Category | Score | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Scenery | 8 | The garden features a harmonious blend of Japanese and Western aesthetics, with pure white Annabelle hydrangeas in front of the stone oven garden terrace and mountain hydrangeas along winding paths. It offers a calm and photogenic setting, though the scale and vibrancy don’t match famous temples like Meigetsu-in (明月院) or Hase-dera Temple (長谷寺). |
| Accessibility | 8 | Take a bus from JR Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅) and get off at “Jomyoji” (浄明寺), then walk 2 minutes. Bus frequency and signage are average, but the area can become congested on weekends and during hydrangea season. |
| History | 9 | Ranked fifth among the Five Great Zen Temples of Kamakura (鎌倉五山), Jomyo-ji Temple (浄明寺) is a prestigious Zen temple associated with the Ashikaga family and is historically significant, even influencing the naming of the Kamakura region. |
| Comfort | 7 | Quiet and relaxing on weekday mornings, but during peak bloom times, crowding, limited benches/toilets, and waits at the café are noted. That said, the temple grounds are beautifully maintained. |
| Reviews | 7 | Holds a steady rating of around 4.4 on Google. Social media comments highlight it as a “quiet hidden gem” with “modest scale,” but concerns about comfort and congestion remain. |
Overall Score: 39
Jomyo-ji Temple (浄明寺) offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy a variety of hydrangeas and a rich historical atmosphere. While not as grand as Meigetsu-in (明月院) or Hase-dera Temple (長谷寺), it’s ideal for those seeking a quieter experience and a relaxing moment at the garden café.