[2026] Rainy Days are Beautiful. Kyoto Hydrangea Spots and Nearby Gourmet Guide

Update-Date: Apr 8, 2026

Author: SAVOR JAPAN Editorial Team

[2026] Rainy Days are Beautiful. Kyoto Hydrangea Spots and Nearby Gourmet Guide

June in Kyoto, as early summer arrives, marks the beginning of the rainy season known as 'Tsuyu'. In Kyoto, this blessed rain nourishes the historic temple gardens, making the lush moss and trees shine even more beautifully. Amidst this vibrant ancient cityscape, the 'hydrangea' blooms vividly. Furthermore, 'Hanachozu', which is said to have originated in Kyoto's temples, has now become a hugely popular photo spot for tourists. This time, we will introduce you to the charming hydrangea spots unique to Kyoto, which boasts a thousand years of history, and the exquisite gourmet options nearby that you would want to enjoy together.

SAVOR JAPAN Editorial Team

A team of writers dedicated to sharing the best of Japan’s food and travel with the world. From must-visit spots to beloved local gems and seasonal highlights, we bring you authentic insights into Japan’s diverse regions.

1. Mimurotoji

Rainy Days are Indeed Beautiful. Kyoto Hydrangea Spots and Nearby Gourmet Guide

Mimurotoji Temple, known as one of Kyoto's premier hydrangea temples, welcomes its peak season from early June to early July, showcasing over 50 varieties and more than 10,000 hydrangea plants. An additional admission fee is required to enter the hydrangea garden, but the expansive view of blossoms is truly breathtaking. There is a popular belief that finding a 'heart-shaped' hydrangea among the tens of thousands will make one's romantic wishes come true, making it a favorite activity for travelers to search for them while strolling. During the weekend lighting events, visitors can also enjoy a magical nighttime scenery.

2. Chishaku-in

Chishaku-in is conveniently located about 10 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station, and its hydrangeas reach their peak from mid to late June. Unlike many other famous sites in Kyoto, the hydrangea garden within the temple grounds is open to the public for free, which is a delightful feature. The approach to the solemn Golden Hall is beautifully adorned with vibrant flowers. It is easy to make a quick stop here between travel plans, and visitors can quietly enjoy the stunning contrast between traditional Japanese temple architecture and the beautiful hydrangeas in a serene setting.

Recommended Restaurants Near Chishaku-in You'll Want to Visit After!

Benoit Kyoto

Located within walking distance from Chishaku-in Temple. After being soothed by the beautiful hydrangeas, how about an elegant meal in a stylish space overlooking the iconic 'Yasaka Tower' of Kyoto? At the bistro managed by the master chef Alain Ducasse, you can savor seasonal "Course Meals" and exquisite "Mille-feuille". It is a special restaurant where you can enjoy graceful French cuisine after delighting in the Japanese scenic beauty.

Benoit Kyoto

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 3:30 pm (L.O. 2:30 pm) / Afternoon Tea 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm (L.O. 3:30 pm) *Afternoon Tea Course Only / Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 8:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 10,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,000 JPY
Access: 15-minute drive from Kyoto Station, 5-minute walk from Kiyomizu-michi bus stop
Address: Inside The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu, 2-204-2, Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

More Details Reservation

3. Kyoto Ohara Sanzenin

Sanzen-in, known for its cedar groves and lush moss gardens, reaches the peak of its hydrangea viewing from mid-June to early July. Although an admission fee is required, the 'Hydrangea Garden' located just before the Golden Fudo Hall boasts about 1,000 plants, including the rare star-shaped hydrangeas (Shichidanka). The contrast between the deep green of the moss, enhanced by the rain, and the vibrant flowers is truly a breathtaking sight. Nestled in the quiet mountain countryside, it is a highly popular destination for travelers wishing to fully experience the traditional charm of Japan.

4. Fujimori Shrine

[2026 Edition] Rainy Days are Beautiful: Kyoto Hydrangea Spots and Nearby Gourmet Guide

Fujimori Shrine is a renowned spot where approximately 3,500 hydrangea plants bloom from early June to early July. There are two hydrangea gardens within the shrine grounds (separate admission fee required), which are dyed in vibrant pinks and blues. Particularly noteworthy is the 'Hanachozu' that appears exclusively during the hydrangea season. The sight of colorful hydrangeas floating on the surface of the water at the water purification pavilion is breathtakingly beautiful, making it an excellent photo spot that is extremely popular among foreign tourists for its outstanding presence on social media.

Recommended Restaurants Near Fujimori Shrine to Visit Afterwards

Seiwaso

Located within walking distance from Fujimori Shrine, this restaurant offers an authentic Kyoto cuisine experience in a beautiful space that embodies Japanese tradition. It is a well-established restaurant featuring a sukiya-style building, a renowned architectural style, and a lush Japanese garden. The restaurant specializes in seasonal courses centered around Kyoto vegetables and courses featuring Omi beef. It is perfect for those who wish to savor the elegant taste of Kyoto in tranquility.

Seiwasou

Open: [Tuesday-Sunday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Lunch 12:00 pm - 3:30 pm (L.O. 3:15 pm) Last entry 1:30 pm / Dinner 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm) Last entry 7:00 pm
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 20,000 JPY / [Lunch] 10,000 JPY
Access: 15-minute drive from JR Kyoto Station/ 5-minute walk from the city bus stop, Nishi-Sumizomedori
Address: 8, Fukakusa-Echigoyashiki-cho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

More Details Reservation

Ippon Yari

Located just a short walk from Fujimori Shrine, this restaurant is perfect for those who want to casually enjoy delicious food after a stroll. It is a beloved local specialty restaurant for fugu (pufferfish) dishes, offering a variety of options including the full "Fugu Course", fresh "Nama Shabu", and the addictive spicy "Grilled Fugu". After a tiring walk exploring the hydrangeas, this vibrant restaurant is the place to satisfy your hunger with exquisite fugu dishes.

Ipponyari

Open: [Tuesday-Sunday, National Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 9:30 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm)
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 10,000 JPY
Access: 10-minute walk from Fujimori Station, 10-minute drive from Fushimi Inari
Address: 7-76, Fukakusa Nishiura-cho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

More Details Reservation

5. Yanagidani Kannon, Yokoku-ji Temple

[2026] Rainy Days are Beautiful Too. Kyoto Hydrangea Spots and Nearby Gourmet Guide

Nestled quietly in the mountains, Yokoku-ji Temple is a beautiful temple known as a sacred site for 'Hanachozu'. The vibrant scene of its water pavilion has become a hot topic on SNS, attracting immense support from travelers around the world. From early June to early July, approximately 5,000 hydrangea plants reach their peak, and during the 'Hydrangea Week', the temple grounds are enveloped in a refined Japanese atmosphere. A free shuttle bus from the nearest station is also available, ensuring easy access.

Recommended restaurants around the nearest station to visit after Yokoku-ji temple!

Izakaya Asahi

On the way back from Yokoku-ji, the area around Nagaokakyo Station serves as a bustling hub for bus arrivals and departures, offering excellent access. For those tired from walking, a cold drink and delicious izakaya menu items are truly refreshing. Recommended dishes include the fresh "Assorted Sashimi", "Fried Chicken" which pairs wonderfully with beer, and the fluffy, gently flavored "Dashi Rolled Omelette". It's a lively restaurant where one can casually enjoy Japan's popular izakaya culture.

Izakaya Asahi

Open: [Weekdays, Saturday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 10:30 pm (L.O. 9:30 pm)
Closed: Sunday
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY
Access: 1-minute walk from Nagaokakyo Station West Exit on JR JR Tokaido Main Line, 15-minute walk from Nagaoka Tenzin Station East Exit on Hankyu Kyoto Main Line
Address: 1-3-19, Koutari, Nagaokakyo-shi, Kyoto

More Details Reservation

Kyoto in early summer becomes even more beautiful when wet with rain. The vibrant hydrangeas blending into the traditional temple scenery and the colorful flower water basins decorating the water surfaces are truly breathtaking views unique to this ancient city with a thousand years of history. Enjoy a luxurious trip filled with serene moments at famous temples and sophisticated, delicious gourmet experiences. This rainy season, indulge in an elegant and moist moment that can only be experienced in Kyoto.

Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.

Thank you for reading our article.

Our goal is to take your culinary journey to the next level by helping you find the best restaurant. With SAVOR JAPAN, you can search and make reservations for

the restaurants found in and around Kyoto that fill your needs.