Hydrangeas of Meigetsuin Temple (明月院)
Discover the Hydrangeas at Meigetsuin Temple (明月院)
Located in Kamakura, Meigetsuin Temple (明月院) is lovingly nicknamed the “Hydrangea Temple,” drawing visitors especially during the rainy season. Among its lush grounds, around 2,500 hydrangeas bloom—most of them being the delicate, blue Hime Ajisai variety, which has earned the poetic moniker “Meigetsuin Blue.” From soft pastels to deep indigos, the flowers seem to glow more vividly in the rain, creating a dreamlike, all-blue landscape that captivates every traveler.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
The best viewing period is usually from early to mid-June, lasting around two to three weeks. While the peak bloom is stunning, the late May pre-bloom period offers mesmerizing color gradations and fewer crowds—ideal for photographers. Unlike Hase-dera Temple, which implements a timed-entry ticket system, Meigetsuin Temple (明月院) remains free of such restrictions. However, the lack of regulation often leads to massive queues, sometimes stretching back to Kita-Kamakura Station. During peak times, crowd control may be enacted, though no reservation or ticketing system is used.
Photo Highlights and Must-See Spots
The most iconic photo spot is the circular “Window of Enlightenment” inside the main hall. Framing a garden of blue hydrangeas and greenery, the view looks like a living painting. Be prepared for a short wait—15 to 40 minutes is common. Don’t miss the temple path leading to the main gate, where stone steps lined with blooming hydrangeas create a floral tunnel, particularly breathtaking in the morning mist or rain. The rear garden, open only during hydrangea season, features irises in full bloom and a serene bamboo grove—a tranquil scene that soothes the soul.
Embrace the Quiet Hours of Morning
To avoid the crowds, aim to arrive before the gates open or after 4 PM in the late afternoon. Fewer visitors during these hours allow for a much more peaceful experience. If you’re staying at a place like Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス), a self-service smart hotel, it’s easy to plan your temple visit at off-peak times. You can stroll the grounds in the early morning before breakfast or unwind in the calm of dusk, enjoying the blooms in serenity—a luxury unattainable on a typical day trip.
How to Get There from Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス)
Meigetsuin Temple (明月院) is within walking distance from Kita-Kamakura Station, making it an ideal stop during your morning or evening walk while staying at Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス). The proximity allows you to explore under the soft morning sun or in the golden hues of dusk—moments that add a richer rhythm to your travel experience than any one-day itinerary.
Wrap-Up: Hydrangeas and a Local Way to Experience Kamakura
Being surrounded by the ethereal blues of Meigetsuin Blue hydrangeas in early summer is a gift of the season. With a stay-style journey, you’ll savor the refined beauty of this Zen temple and its native Hime Ajisai blooms in an unhurried way. Let your time here linger—a tranquil Kamakura moment colored in blue, etched deeply into your memory.
Toshi’s Evaluation (May 2025)
| Category | Score | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Scenery | 10 | Around 2,500 Hime Ajisai (ヒメアジサイ) hydrangeas blanket the temple grounds in a stunning blue known as “Meigetsu-in Blue.” Harmonizing with historic buildings and stone paths, the view is both photogenic and deeply seasonal. Meticulous upkeep and consistent popularity on social media. |
| Accessibility | 9 | About a 10-minute walk from JR Kita-Kamakura Station (北鎌倉駅) with clear signage. The route is flat and easy to follow, though not within 5 minutes—hence a slight point deduction. |
| History | 9 | Founded in the 12th century, this historic temple houses several nationally designated cultural properties. Widely known across Japan as the “Hydrangea Temple,” it is also gaining recognition among international travelers. |
| Comfort | 5 | In 2025, congestion remained intense, especially on weekends and mornings. Long entrance queues and crowding inside the temple are common. With no additional restrooms or benches, comfort levels have declined. |
| Reviews | 8 | Holds strong ratings around 4.4–4.5 on Google and travel sites. While the scenery receives glowing reviews, complaints about crowds and wait times are increasing, slightly lowering overall satisfaction. |
Overall Score: 41
Meigetsu-in (明月院) offers exceptional scenery, rich historical context, and good accessibility. However, crowd-related discomfort remains a concern. Still, it remains one of Kamakura’s (鎌倉) most iconic and recommended hydrangea spots for both domestic and international visitors.