Meigetsu-in Temple (Hydrangea Temple) Complete Guide | Highlights, Access, and Latest Information on Avoiding Crowds
Meigetsu-in Temple, a renowned flower viewing spot in the Kamakura and Kita-Kamakura area, is a historic Rinzai Zen temple of the Kencho-ji school, affectionately known as the “Hydrangea Temple.” In June, approximately 2,500 hydrangea bushes fill the temple grounds, and their unique blue color has become nationally famous as “Meigetsu-in Blue.” This article provides a detailed explanation of Meigetsu-in Temple, from its history and highlights to the best time to visit and how to avoid crowds, incorporating the latest information.
What is Meigetsu-in Temple?
History and Origin
Meigetsu-in Temple, officially known as “Fukugen-zan Meigetsu-in,” is a Rinzai Zen temple of the Kencho-ji school. Its origins date back to the late Heian period.
Meigetsuin Temple is said to have originated in the late Heian period with the establishment of “Meigetsuan,” a temple built to commemorate Yamauchi Toshimichi. Later, during the Muromachi period, it was rebuilt as a sub-temple of Zenkoji Temple by Uesugi Norikata, the Kanto Kanrei (governor of the Kanto region). The founding abbot (first head priest) was Misshitsu Shugon.
The valley opposite Jochiji Temple in Yamanouchi, where Meigetsuin is located, is called “Meigetsu Valley,” and a large temple called Zenkoji once stood there. Zenkoji Temple is now defunct, but Meigetsuin has been passed down as its sub-temple to this day.
Principal Image and Sect
The principal image is Sho Kannon (Holy Kannon), and it belongs to the Kenchoji branch of the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism. As befits a temple of the Kenchoji branch, a serene atmosphere reminiscent of Zen spirituality permeates the entire temple grounds.
Meigetsuin Blue | The Reason for its Famous Hydrangea Temple
What is Meigetsuin Blue?
Meigetsuin Temple is renowned throughout Japan as a “hydrangea temple” because of the approximately 2,500 hydrangea plants that fill its grounds. Particularly noteworthy is its unique coloration.
Most of the hydrangeas at Meigetsuin are of the ancient Japanese variety called “Hime-ajisai” (dwarf hydrangea). Their distinctive color, which gradually deepens from a pale blue at the beginning of blooming to a bluer hue, is known as “Meigetsuin Blue” and captivates many visitors. This beautiful blue color is a mystical hue created by the exquisite combination of soil acidity, climate conditions, and the characteristics of the variety.
Best Time to See Hydrangeas and Seasonal Information
The best time to see hydrangeas is usually from early June to late June. Mid-June is considered the most beautiful time.
The band of blue hydrangeas lining both sides of the stone steps leading from the main gate to the inner gate creates a breathtaking spectacle, and the sight of the entire approach to the temple bathed in a single shade of blue is truly the essence of “Meigetsuin Blue.” During the season, many visitors come daily, and it’s a spectacular spot where their mystical beauty is truly captivating.
Visiting Hours and Fees During Hydrangea Season
Visiting hours may differ during the hydrangea season compared to the regular season.
Regular Visiting Hours:
- Open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Hydrangea Season:
- Hours may change, so please check official information in advance.
- Early opening hours and extended closing times may be implemented to alleviate congestion.
Admission Fee:
- Fees may differ from the regular season.
- A separate fee is required for the rear garden of the main hall (open only during iris and autumn foliage seasons).
Highlights of Meigetsu-in Temple | Charms Throughout the Seasons
The Round Window (Window of Enlightenment)
The most popular photo spot at Meigetsu-in Temple is the “round window” of the main hall. Officially called the “Window of Enlightenment,” this circular window offers seasonal views of the garden behind the main hall.
During hydrangea season, long lines form to take photos through this round window. Recently, it’s become so popular that a temple official holding a sign indicating the end of the line is warning visitors, “Even if you line up now, we can’t guarantee you’ll be able to take photos before the temple closes completely at 5 PM.”
The view from the round window changes with the seasons: fresh greenery in spring, deep green in summer, vibrant autumn leaves, and a snowy landscape in winter, making it worth visiting throughout the year.
Rear Garden of the Main Hall (Irises and Autumn Leaves)
The garden behind the main hall is usually closed to the public, but it is specially opened during the iris blooming season (June) and the autumn leaf season (late November to early December).
This garden features an iris field where approximately 3,000 irises bloom. June, when you can enjoy both hydrangeas and irises at the same time, is arguably the most spectacular season at Meigetsu-in Temple.
During the autumn leaf season, the garden visible from the round window is dyed in red and yellow, offering a different kind of beauty than the hydrangea season. While it gets crowded during the autumn foliage season, it’s not as busy as the hydrangea season, allowing for a relatively relaxed viewing experience.
Meigetsuin Yagura (Kamakura’s Largest)
The Meigetsuin Yagura, surrounding the Kaisando (Founder’s Hall), is the largest yagura (a horizontal-chambered tomb from the Kamakura period) in Kamakura.
This yagura is of great historical value, a valuable relic that conveys the samurai culture of the Kamakura period. Many memorial towers are enshrined inside, offering a glimpse into the religious practices of the time.
Tsurube-no-i Well
Within the temple grounds is Tsurube-no-i Well, one of the “Ten Famous Wells of Kamakura.”
The Ten Famous Wells of Kamakura are wells with famous waters dating back to the Kamakura period, and Meigetsuin’s Tsurube-no-i still holds pure water. As one of the wells that once supported the lives of the people of Kamakura, it is a historically significant spot.
Dry Landscape Garden
Meigetsu-in Temple boasts a beautiful dry landscape garden, exuding a tranquil atmosphere befitting a Zen temple. The garden, created with white sand and stones, has a calming effect on the viewer.
Rabbit Figurines (Instagrammable Spot)
Cute rabbit figurines are scattered throughout the temple grounds, making them a popular photo spot among young visitors. Photos of hydrangeas and rabbits together are a popular topic on social media.
Meigetsu-in Temple in Every Season
Spring (March-May) | A Hidden Gem for Cherry Blossoms and Weeping Cherry Trees
Meigetsu-in Temple is one of Kamakura’s leading spots for weeping cherry trees and a hidden gem for cherry blossom viewing. From late March to early April, the weeping cherry trees on the temple grounds bloom beautifully.
It’s less crowded than the hydrangea season, making it especially recommended for those who want to enjoy the cherry blossoms at a leisurely pace. The fresh spring greenery visible through the round window is refreshing, making it a perfect spot to feel the arrival of spring.
Summer (June-August) | Hydrangea and Green Season
June is the busiest time at Meigetsu-in Temple, as it’s hydrangea season. Approximately 2,500 dwarf hydrangeas dye the temple grounds a sea of blue, creating a world of “Meigetsu-in Blue.”
From July onwards, the green deepens, enveloping the entire temple grounds in deep green. Even in the summer heat, the temple grounds, with their many shady spots, remain relatively cool, allowing for a peaceful and relaxing time.
Autumn (September-November) | Famous for Autumn Leaves
From late November to early December, Meigetsu-in Temple is also known as a famous spot for autumn leaves. The rear garden of the main hall is specially opened to the public, and the view of the autumn leaves from the round window is breathtakingly beautiful.
The entire temple grounds are colored in red and yellow, offering a completely different atmosphere from the hydrangea season. While it gets crowded during the autumn foliage season, you can enjoy a more relaxed visit if you aim for early mornings or weekdays.
Winter (December-February) | A Tranquil Zen Temple
Winter at Meigetsu-in Temple is less crowded with tourists, making it a season to experience the true atmosphere of a quiet Zen temple. On snowy days, the snowscape visible through the round windows is fantastical, offering a unique winter beauty.
Although it’s a cold time of year, strolling through the temple grounds in the crisp air provides a refreshing and cleansing experience for the soul.
Access Information | Directions from Kita-Kamakura Station
Access by Train
The nearest station to Meigetsu-in Temple is Kita-Kamakura Station on the JR Yokosuka Line.
Walking from JR Kita-Kamakura Station:
- Estimated time: Approximately 10 minutes
- Distance: Approximately 500 meters
Directions:
- Exit Kita-Kamakura Station and head right (towards Kamakura).
- Walk along the railway tracks, passing Engaku-ji Temple.
- Continue straight without crossing the railway crossing, and turn left following the signs for Meigetsu-in Temple.
- After passing through the residential area, you will see the main gate of Meigetsu-in Temple.
There are signs along the way, so even first-time visitors are unlikely to get lost. During hydrangea season, many tourists head in the same direction, so you can arrive by following the flow of people.
Access by Car and Parking Information
Meigetsu-in Temple does not have its own parking lot. Also, the surrounding roads are narrow and become very crowded during hydrangea season.
Parking Information:
- No parking available on the premises.
- Coin-operated parking lots in the surrounding area have limited spaces and are often full during peak season.
- We strongly recommend using public transportation.
If you absolutely must visit by car, please consider parking your car near Kamakura Station and taking the train to Kita-Kamakura Station.
Access by Bus
While it is possible to take a bus from Kamakura Station, walking from Kita-Kamakura Station is the most convenient option.
Crowds and How to Avoid Them
Crowds During Hydrangea Season
Hydrangea season (especially weekends in mid-June) is the busiest time of year.
Peak Crowds:
- Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays in mid-June
- Between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM
- You may have to wait for over an hour to take photos at the round window.
Especially in recent years, the number of younger visitors has increased due to social media sharing, and the queue for photos at the round window can sometimes extend all the way to the Kaizando Hall. The crowds are so immense that a sign reads, “Even if you line up now, we can’t guarantee you’ll be able to take photos before the gates close completely at 5 PM.”
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
1. Early Morning Visit
- It’s relatively less crowded around 9 AM, right after opening.
- Hydrangeas in the morning light are beautiful and perfect for photography.
2. Weekday Visit
- If possible, we recommend visiting on a weekday.
- Tuesdays through Thursdays are especially less crowded.
3. Near Closing Time
- Crowds ease after 3 PM.
- However, you might run out of time to photograph the round window.
4. Shift Your Season
- Early and late June are less crowded than mid-June.
- The coloring will differ, but it’s recommended for those who want to avoid crowds.
5. Aim for Rainy Days
- Hydrangeas are most beautiful on rainy days, and the Meigetsuin blue when wet is exceptional.
- Visitors are fewer on rainy days, allowing for a more leisurely viewing experience.
Crowds during the Autumn Foliage Season
The autumn foliage season (late November to early December) is somewhat crowded, but not as much as the hydrangea season.
The garden behind the main hall is crowded during the special opening period, but you can enjoy it relatively peacefully on weekdays or early in the morning.
Visiting Information
Basic Information
Location:
- 189 Yamanouchi, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture 247-0062
Phone Number:
- 0467-24-3437
Visiting Hours:
- Regular Season: Open 9:00 AM – Close 4:00 PM
- Hydrangea Season: Hours may change (advance confirmation recommended)
Admission Fee:
- May vary between regular and peak seasons
- Additional fee required for the rear garden of the main hall (open only during limited periods)
Closed Days:
- Generally open every day (however, subject to change due to weather or events)
Notes for Visitors
Photography:
- Photography is generally permitted on the temple grounds
- Tripods are prohibited
- Please be considerate of other visitors
Manners:
- Remember that this is a Zen temple; please observe quietly. Please refrain from touching the hydrangeas and other plants.
- Please take your trash with you.
Nearby Tourist Spots | Kita-Kamakura Area
Engaku-ji Temple
Located near Kita-Kamakura Station, Engaku-ji Temple is the second-highest ranked Rinzai Zen temple and the head temple of the Kamakura Five Mountains. It’s an ideal spot to visit in conjunction with Meigetsu-in Temple.
Kencho-ji Temple
Kencho-ji Temple, the first-highest ranked of the Kamakura Five Mountains, is known as the oldest Zen temple in Japan. Its vast grounds offer many sights to see, making it a must-visit if you have the time.
Jochi-ji Temple
Located near Meigetsu-in Temple, Jochi-ji Temple is the fourth-highest ranked temple of the Kamakura Five Mountains. Its moss-covered stone steps and bamboo groves are beautiful, and you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere during your visit.
Tokei-ji Temple
Tokei-ji Temple, known as a “temple for ending relationships” and a “refuge temple,” is also within walking distance of Kita-Kamakura Station. It is also famous as a temple of flowers, with beautiful blossoms throughout the seasons.
Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Meigetsu-in Temple
Half-Day Course (Morning Plan)
9:00 Arrive at JR Kita-Kamakura Station
9:10 Arrive at Meigetsu-in Temple and begin your visit (relatively uncrowded as it’s right after opening)
10:30 Finish visiting Meigetsu-in Temple
10:45 Visit Engaku-ji Temple
11:45 Visit Jochi-ji Temple or Tokei-ji Temple
12:30 Lunch near Kita-Kamakura Station
This plan allows you to efficiently visit the main temples in the Kita-Kamakura area while avoiding crowds.
Full-Day Course (Kamakura Full Enjoyment Plan)
We recommend a plan where you explore the Kita-Kamakura area in the morning, similar to the half-day course above, and then spend the afternoon sightseeing around Kamakura Station (Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Komachi Street, Hase-dera Temple, Kotoku-in Temple, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the best time to see hydrangeas?
The hydrangeas typically bloom from early to late June, with mid-June being the most beautiful time. However, this can vary depending on the year’s weather, so it’s recommended to check the latest information before visiting.
Can I enjoy it on a rainy day?
Yes, in fact, hydrangeas look even more beautiful on rainy days. The Meigetsuin blue, wet with rain, is exceptionally beautiful. We recommend bringing rain gear.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are generally not allowed. This excludes service animals such as guide dogs.
Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
There are many stone steps and slopes within the temple grounds, making wheelchair access difficult in some areas. We recommend contacting the temple in advance.
How long does it take?
A leisurely visit takes about 30 minutes to an hour. However, if you plan to wait in line to photograph the hydrangeas at the round window during hydrangea season, it will take longer.
Summary
Meigetsu-in Temple is nationally famous as the “hydrangea temple,” but it is a wonderful temple with different charms throughout the four seasons. The Meigetsu-in blue in June is particularly worth seeing and continues to captivate many people.
To avoid crowds, it is effective to visit early in the morning, on weekdays, or outside of peak season. The cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn leaves are also beautiful, and a winter visit is recommended for those who want to experience the tranquil atmosphere of a Zen temple.
Its convenient location, about a 10-minute walk from Kita-Kamakura Station, is another attractive feature. Visiting it along with nearby temples such as Engaku-ji and Jochi-ji allows for a deeper experience of Kamakura’s history and culture.
When visiting, please respect the serene atmosphere of the Zen temple and observe proper etiquette. Individual consideration is essential to passing on Meigetsu-in’s beautiful scenery and historical value to future generations.
Please experience the charm of Meigetsu-in in each season. It will surely become a wonderful and memorable experience.
