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This text has been translated by auto-translation. There may be a slight difference between the original text and the translation. (Original Language: 日本語)

The Hydrangeas at “Hydrangea Temple” Raikō-ji, Which Add Color to the Season, Are Now at Their Best / Kawanishi City, Hyogo Prefecture

In Kawanishi City, Hyogo Prefecture, “Raikō-ji （ ）,” known as the “Hydrangea Temple,” （ Higashi-Aze no 2-chome ） is currently at its peak, with approximately 500 hydrangea plants in vivid shades of blue, pink, and other colors on full display. Many local residents are visiting the temple grounds to catch a glimpse of the beautiful hydrangeas, enjoying the view and taking photos.　* Admission is free


This year, hydrangeas in a variety of colors are blooming on the grounds of Raikō-ji Temple, and they will remain at their peak until around early July.

It has become a popular photography spot for photography enthusiasts, and some visitors reportedly arrive as early as dawn, when the colors are said to be at their most beautiful.

The hydrangeas blooming at the temple are mainly “Western hydrangeas,” characterized by their large, voluminous flowers and a wide variety of vibrant colors. Other varieties, such as “Otafuku” and “Sumida Fireworks,” are also in bloom, and approximately one-third of the temple grounds are adorned with hydrangeas. It is well known that the color of hydrangeas varies depending on the soil conditions, and at this temple, blue varieties are particularly prevalent.


This temple was founded by the monk Genken, son of Minamoto no Mitsunaka, her son, Gen Ken Sōzu （ (whose childhood name was ： Bijomaru ）).

In Shōwa 49, to celebrate the reconstruction of the main hall, the Kawanishi City Tourism Association donated approximately 100 hydrangea plants. Inspired by the desire to “bring joy to the local community,” the former head priest and others carefully tended to them, resulting in an abundance of blooms.

Affectionately known as the “Hydrangea Temple,” this temple attracts many visitors from both within and outside the city, who come to enjoy the hydrangeas that still bloom in vibrant colors. During the peak blooming season, some visitors stop by while hiking or on “gin-kō” excursions to find inspiration for haiku and other creative works.

The temple is located about 300 meters northwest of the Nose Electric Railway’s “Aze-no” Station, about a 5 ～ to 6-minute walk. Once you pass under the overpass where the Nose Electric Railway runs, hydrangeas lining both sides of the stairs leading to the temple grounds welcome visitors.