Early Summer Weather, Blooming Periods & Best Spots
As May and June arrive in Tokyo, we bid farewell to the pink cherry blossoms and welcome the hydrangea (Ajisai) season. Although this coincides with the rainy season, the hydrangeas look even more vibrant in the misty rain. Meanwhile, hydrangeas in Tokyo's street corners, parks, and shrines quietly bloom, adding a soft, lavender filter to your early summer journey.
In this special feature, we have compiled the temperature changes from late May to late June, along with our privately collected list of top hydrangea spots in and around Tokyo, ensuring you get the best viewing experience.
| Period | Average Temp | What it Feels Like |
|---|---|---|
| Late May | 19°C - 24°C | Cool mornings and evenings, feels like summer when sunny. |
| Early June | 21°C - 26°C | Official start of rainy season, humidity increases. |
| Late June | 23°C - 28°C | Humid after rain, strong AC indoors. |
Hydrangeas in downtown Tokyo typically reach their peak viewing period from early to mid-June. The blooming period varies depending on temperature and rainfall. It is recommended to check the latest bloom status before your trip and keep a few rainy-day spots as backup.
When traveling during the rainy season, besides checking the temperature, we highly recommend verifying the precipitation probability, thunderstorm forecasts, and flower bloom reports. The following three Japanese websites (also available as apps) are great reference points before heading out.
Great for checking temperatures and rain probabilities, very practical for planning.
Tracks weather changes and live rain clouds, especially handy before moving around in the rainy season.
Intuitive interface, perfect for quickly checking hourly forecasts and timing your outings.
Hasedera is one of Kamakura's top 3 hydrangea spots, with over 40 varieties and 2,500 bushes blooming along the hillside. Stroll up the famous 'Hydrangea Path' and enjoy a distant view of Yuigahama Beach and Sagami Bay, experiencing the perfect blend of flowers and ocean.
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Known as the 'Hydrangea Temple', Meigetsuin features around 2,500 blooming Hime-ajisai. The layers of blue flowers create the famous 'Meigetsuin Blue', offering an unforgettable early summer scene.
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The most impressive sight at Jojuin is the hydrangeas blooming along its approach. After climbing the stone steps, you can overlook Yuigahama Beach and Sagami Bay, a memorable Kamakura early summer view.
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The classic shot at Goryo Shrine features the Enoden train framed by hydrangeas right in front of the torii gate. As the train slowly passes through the flowers, it attracts many photographers every year.
Located in Bunkyo Ward, Hakusan Shrine boasts about 3,000 blooming hydrangeas. Together with the adjacent Hakusan Park, it forms a colorful floral landscape and serves as the main venue for the Bunkyo Hydrangea Festival.
Situated between Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree, Sumida Park's riverside path offers hydrangeas that beautifully complement the Skytree, making it a popular viewing spot in central Tokyo.
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Kyu-Nakagawa Riverbed Park has grown in popularity recently. The blooming hydrangeas along the river path perfectly frame the Tokyo Skytree, serving as a hidden gem for flower lovers.
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Horinji Temple is famous for its hydrangea 'hanachozu' (floating flowers in water basins) and seasonal cutout goshuin. It has gained widespread attention on social media, becoming a popular destination for photographers and goshuin collectors.
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Famous for cherry blossoms, Asukayama Park also features around 1,300 blooming hydrangeas. Stroll along the sloped paths to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere where greenery and flowers intertwine.
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Known as the 'Hydrangea Temple', Hondoji in Chiba sees about 50,000 hydrangeas bloom every June. The sea of flowers beautifully contrasts with the ancient temple architecture, presenting a classic Japanese early summer view. It is one of the largest hydrangea spots in the Kanto region.
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Unlike most daytime viewing spots, the hydrangeas along the Hakone Tozan Railway offer a completely different, dreamy atmosphere when illuminated at night. The event lasts for only about ten days and features a reserved-seat 'Ajisai Train' that takes passengers through a nocturnal sea of flowers, offering Hakone's unique nighttime viewing charm. Please check the official website for event dates.
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Avoid Heavy Rain
Mornings are Best for Photos
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Bring Rain Gear
Check Bloom Status