Hakone Gora Park is once again hosting a hydrangea photo spot this June, following the enthusiastic response it received last year. From June 1 to June 30, over 100 pots of hydrangeas in a variety of cultivars — including the double-petaled pink "Koikokoro" and the round, ball-shaped "Temaritimari" — will be arranged along the steps leading from Hakuundosoen Tea House to the fountain pool. In front of Hakuundosoen Tea House, a "hana-chōzu" floral water display featuring hydrangeas floating in a basin will also be on view.
In late June, a stretch of the park known as the "Annabelle Road" will come into bloom, as white American hydrangeas called "Annabelle" reach their peak.
Hydrangea Photo Spot
The photo spot runs from June 1 (Monday) to June 30 (Tuesday), open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (in line with the park's regular hours). The location is in front of Hakuundosoen Tea House.
Hydrangea Sweets at Isshikido Saro
The in-park sandwich restaurant Isshikido Saro (separate admission required) is offering a seasonal hydrangea-themed menu through June 30, with hours from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (last order 3:30 PM).
Hydrangea Afternoon Tea — from ¥2,970 (tax included)
Handmade panna cotta and butterfly pea tea jelly are used to capture the shimmer of hydrangeas, with berry cake adding color. Four types of sandwiches are available to choose from, and the set is served with a fruity cherry-scented tea.
Hydrangea Anmitsu Parfait — ¥900 (tax included)
Blue and purple agar jelly evokes the look of hydrangeas, paired with rich vanilla soft serve, deep matcha ice cream, mochi dumplings, and red bean paste. A drizzle of brown sugar syrup adds a full-bodied sweetness.
Hydrangea Tea — ¥880 (tax included)
A refreshing herbal tea that blends the bright acidity of lime and the cooling flavor of mint syrup with butterfly pea tea, designed to evoke the color-shifting hues of hydrangeas.
Glass Bead Craft Experience: Hydrangea Pattern
At Hakone Craft House (separate admission required), a limited-time glass bead workshop with a hydrangea-inspired pattern is available through July 5 (Sunday). Participants melt glass rods with a burner and wind the molten glass around an iron rod to create their piece. The light blue hydrangea motif can be made into an accessory, keychain, or similar item.
- Price: from ¥4,070 (tax included)
Hakone Gora Park — Hours & Admission
Opening hours:
- March to November: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM)
- December to February: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (last entry 4:00 PM)
Closed: Open year-round (three maintenance closure days per year)
Admission:
- Adults: ¥650 (tax included)
- Elementary school students and younger: Free
- Dogs: Free
- Holders of the Hakone Free Pass, Nonbiri Kippu, or Owakudani Kippu enter free (digital tickets included)
- Same-day and next-day re-entry is permitted (present your receipt at the gate)
Official website: https://www.hakonenavi.jp/gorapark/
