Meigetsu-in Temple
明月院
Affectionately known as the "Hydrangea Temple," this Rinzai-sect temple of the Kenchoji school bursts into bloom each June with about 1,500 blue hime-ajisai hydrangeas lining the approach and grounds, making it Kamakura's premier hydrangea spot and drawing visitors from across the country. The garden view through the main hall's round window (the "Window of Enlightenment") is also a beloved photo spot popular on social media.
The hydrangea-lined approach
The sight in June of hime-ajisai hydrangeas blooming in a single shade of blue along both sides of the approach from the entrance to the main hall is spectacular. Unlike other "hydrangea temples," Meigetsu-in uses only the hime-ajisai variety, giving the entire grounds a uniform blue hue. Peak bloom is typically early to late June, and admission tickets may be issued during the busiest periods.
The round window (Window of Enlightenment)
The round window leading to the rear garden behind the main hall is known as the "Window of Enlightenment" and is Meigetsu-in's signature photo spot. The rear garden is normally off-limits but opens to the public during special viewing periods in spring (March 1 - June 30) and autumn (October 1 - November 30). The garden viewed through the round window changes character with the seasons, glowing with autumn colors in the fall.
History
The area has deep ties to Kamakura dating to the late Heian period; the temple's predecessor was built around 1380 by Uesugi Norikata. The name Meigetsu-in derives from its earlier name, Meigetsu-an. Its fame as the "Hydrangea Temple" is a more modern development, but it still conveys the rigorous atmosphere of a Zen training hall.
Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
March and April bring cherry blossoms to the grounds. The rear garden's special viewing period (through June 30) also lets visitors enjoy spring wildflowers.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
June's hydrangeas are the biggest highlight — a tunnel of blue hydrangeas found nowhere else. The flowers glistening with rainy-season raindrops have their own charm.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
October and November bring the special rear-garden viewing, when the view through the round window includes autumn foliage. The grounds' fall colors are also beautiful.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
In the calm winter grounds, dried hydrangea flowers sway in the wind. An ideal season to feel the stillness of Zen.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 30-60 minutes
- Crowd levels
- Peak hydrangea season (June) is Kamakura's busiest, with lines forming before the 9:00 opening. A weekday or early-morning visit is strongly recommended. The special rear-garden viewing periods (spring/autumn) are also crowded.
- Best time to visit
- Right at opening, around 9:00 a.m. During hydrangea season, overcast days bring out the colors beautifully.
| Address | 189 Yamanouchi, Kamakura, Kanagawa |
|---|---|
| Hours | 9:00-16:00 (8:30-17:00 in June only) |
| Admission | Adults ¥500, elementary school students ¥300 (an additional ¥500 during special rear-garden viewing periods) |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 10 min walk from Kita-Kamakura Station (JR Yokosuka Line)