Ajisai (Hydrangeas) to Light Up the Month of June - Even More Beautiful on Rainy Days!

Tsuyu (rainy season) is finally upon us. Because June is often filled with rain and humidity, many people may find themselves feeling a little down. However, June in Japan also has a special kind of scenery that becomes beautiful precisely because of the rain. That scenery is the hydrangea, a seasonal symbol of Japan’s rainy season. In this article, we will introduce the charm of hydrangeas and share some tips on how to enjoy them while observing proper manners.

1. Why Are Hydrangeas Famous in Japan?

Just as cherry blossoms are a symbol of spring, hydrangeas are one of the flowers that represent early summer in Japan.

• Flowers That Shine on Rainy Days

Many flowers lose their petals when it rains, but hydrangeas become even more vivid and lively when wet with rain. This matches very well with the Japanese aesthetic of finding beauty in rainy days, often connected to the idea of wabi-sabi.

• The Charm of “Shichihenge,” or Ever-Changing Colors

Hydrangeas can change color depending on the components of the soil, such as whether it is acidic or alkaline. Their colors may shift between blue, purple, and pink. This mysterious quality is one of the reasons hydrangeas have long been loved by people in Japan.

2. Perfect for a Weekend Trip! Recommended Hydrangea Spots Across Japan

Why not take a short break from the noise of the city and visit some breathtaking hydrangea scenery? Here are famous spots not only in the Kanto area, but also in Kansai and Tokai areas.

Meigetsu-in Temple, Kanagawa Prefecture (Kamakura City)

Meigetsu-in is one of the most famous hydrangea spots in the Kanto region and is also known as the “Hydrangea Temple.” The blue hydrangeas that fill the temple grounds are called “Meigetsu-in Blue,” and their beauty is truly breathtaking.

• Advice

Kamakura becomes extremely crowded in June. If you want to take photos at a relaxed pace, visiting first thing in the morning, right after the temple opens, is a smart scheduling tip for adults who know how to travel well.

Mimuroto-ji Temple, Kyoto Prefecture (Uji City)

When it comes to hydrangeas in the Kansai area, Mimuroto-ji Temple in Uji is one of the most famous places to visit. Around 20,000 hydrangea plants bloom across its spacious garden, and the temple is loved as the “Hydrangea Temple of Kansai.”

• Highlights

Hidden among the many flowers, you may occasionally find a rare heart-shaped hydrangea. It is said to bring good luck if you find one, making it a very popular spot on social media as well.

Katahara Onsen Ajisai no Sato, Aichi Prefecture (Gamagori City)

This is a recommended spot for those living in the Tokai area or anyone planning a weekend hot spring trip. Around 50,000 hydrangea plants bloom here, and the area is lit up at night.

• Charm

After enjoying the magical atmosphere of hydrangeas at night, which feels completely different from their colorful daytime appearance, you can relax at a nearby hot spring and gently ease away the fatigue of work.

3. "Etiquette for Viewing Temples and Shrines on Rainy Days" to Observe at Japanese Temples and Shrines. 

Many of the most beautiful spots for viewing hydrangeas are temples and shrines (sacred places). To ensure a pleasant experience for those around you, please keep the following rules in mind.

• Do Not Enter Flowerbeds or Moss Areas. 

It's absolutely forbidden to cross ropes or step on moss, even if it would make for a better photo spot.

• Pay Attention to How You Hold Your Umbrella. 

When taking photos in the narrow temple grounds, be careful not to let the tip of your umbrella hit other people. When passing someone, try practicing the beautiful Japanese custom of "kasakashige," which involves tilting your umbrella slightly outwards.

• Appreciate Quietly

Temples and shrines are places of prayer for many people. Please be considerate of those around you and refrain from making loud noises or blocking the road for extended periods.

4. Enjoy Hydrangeas at Home or in the Office

On weekends when going outside feels like too much effort, try bringing a touch of the season into your everyday life.

• Enjoy Wagashi (Japanese Sweets)

In June, department store food halls and traditional Japanese sweet shops begin selling beautiful sweets inspired by hydrangeas, such as nerikiri and jelly desserts. Enjoying them with a cup of warm green tea can make for the perfect relaxing moment.

• Display a Single Hydrangea Stem

Try buying just one hydrangea stem from a nearby flower shop and displaying it in your room. A humid, gloomy space can instantly feel brighter and fresher.

Conclusion

June is a rainy month, and it can be a time when both the mind and body easily feel out of balance. However, having places you want to visit precisely because it is raining can turn a gloomy weekend into a holiday to look forward to. Enjoy Japan’s uniquely beautiful hydrangeas while observing good manners, refresh your mind and body, and make your way through the rainy season with a little more joy.