Around 500 hydrangea plants in vivid shades of blue, pink, and more are now in full bloom at Raikoji Temple (2-chome, 東畦野, Kawanishi City, Hyogo Prefecture), a temple affectionately known as the "Ajisai-dera" (Hydrangea Temple). Many visitors are coming to admire and photograph the beautiful flowers. Admission is free.
The colorful hydrangeas bloom in the temple grounds each year, and the blooms are expected to continue through early July. Early morning is said to be when the colors look their most vivid, and photography enthusiasts are known to visit at dawn for the best shots.
The main variety of hydrangea growing at the temple is the Western hydrangea (西洋あじさい), known for its large blooms, full volume, and vibrant colors. Other varieties such as "Otafuku" and "Sumida no Hanabi" can also be found flowering on the grounds. Hydrangeas cover approximately one-third of the entire temple precinct, and since the color of hydrangeas is influenced by soil composition, blue-toned blossoms predominate here.
A Temple Rooted in Local History
Raikoji Temple was founded by 源賢僧都 (known in childhood as Bijomaru), a son of Minamoto no Mitsunaka, at the request of his mother, the nun Honyo.
In 1974, the Kawanishi City Tourism Association donated around 100 hydrangea plants to celebrate the reconstruction of the main hall. From that beginning, the former head priest and others nurtured the plants with care, hoping to bring joy to local residents — and the hydrangeas grew into the thriving display visitors see today.
The temple draws visitors from both within and outside the city, continuing to delight all who come to enjoy the vivid blooms. During peak season, visitors also include hikers passing through on nearby trails and poets on ginko (haiku composition walks) in search of seasonal inspiration.
Access
Raikoji Temple is located approximately 300 meters northwest of 畦野 Station on the Nose Electric Railway, about a 5–6 minute walk. Passing under the railway overpass, visitors will be greeted by hydrangeas lining both sides of the steps leading up to the temple grounds.
