Hasedera Temple
Hasedera Temple is one of the most famous hydrangea spots in Kamakura. There are about 2,500 hydrangea plants of more than 40 varieties growing in groups along a walkway. The hydrangeas of Hasedera Temple show various shades of colors and make the rainy season more colorful. On a clear day, the scenic walkway offers a panoramic view of Zushi and Hayama cities.
Best time to see hydrangeas: late May to late June
Access:
■5-minute walk from Hase Station on the Enoshima Electric Railway
■5-minute walk from Keikyu Enoden Bus "Hase Kannon" bus stop
Opening hours:
March to September: 8:00 - 17:00 (the temple closes at 17:30)
October to February: 8:00 - 16:30 (the temple closes at 17:00)
Genjiyama, Kuzuharaoka Shrine
Mt. Genji (Genjiyama) is said to be the mountain where Minamoto no Yoshiie raised a white flag and prayed for victory during the latter three years of his war. It used to be called Mt. Shirahata (white flag) or Mt. Hatate (standing flag), and in the mountains you can see a statue of Minamoto no Yoritomo, overlooking the city of Kamakura. The
Kuzuharaoka Shrine is known as a matchmaking shrine, and there are more than 150 kinds of hydrangeas growing wild in the precincts. Here you can also find beautiful irises and water lilies in full bloom, delighting visitors to the shrine.
Best time to see hydrangeas: early to late June
Access: 30-minute walk from Kita-Kamakura Station on the JR Yokosuka Line
※ The path to Genjiyama and Kuzuharaoka Shrine is a hiking course, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Around Kita-Kamakura Station
The area around JR Kita-Kamakura Station is dotted with temples known for their famous hydrangeas. Engakuji Temple, which you can see as soon as you get off the train at Kita-Kamakura Station, has about 100 hydrangea plants in full bloom, decorating the temple grounds. Tokeiji Temple, which is also famous as a temple for breaking up relationships, is famous for its hydrangea, but you can also enjoy irises and Japanese "rock tobacco". Come and visit the temples around the station and enjoy the colorful hydrangeas.
Best time to see hydrangeas: mid to late June
Access: Kita-Kamakura Station (JR Yokosuka Line)
Meigetsuin Temple in Kamakura
Meigetsuin, also known as "Hydrangea Temple", is famous for its beautiful precincts. 2,500 hydrangea plants, most of which are called Hime hydrangea, are known for their clear "Meigetsuin blue" color. Hydrangea blooms on the approach road after passing through the mountain gate, attracting many tourists.
Best time to see hydrangeas: mid to late June
Access: 10-minute walk from Kita-Kamakura Station on the JR Yokosuka Line
Opening hours: 9:00 - 16:00 (June: 8:30 - 17:00)
Enoden Line (Enoshima Electric Railway)
There are many spots along the Enoden line where hydrangeas are in bloom along the tracks. In particular, the area between Gokurakuji Station and Hase Station is a popular location for the Kamakura Hydrangea Tour. Why don't you try to get the best shot of the hydrangea blooming along the railroad tracks and the train together?
Best time to see hydrangeas: Early to late June
Access: Enoshima Electric Railway "Gokurakuji Station", "Hase Station"
As you can see, there are many hydrangea sights in Kamakura. During the rainy season, be sure to find your favorite spot from among the many gorgeous scenes.
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