The Best Time to See is from June to Early July – A Hidden Spot “Chishakuin Temple” with Colorful Hydrangeas Scenery

“Higashiyama-ku”(東山区) is located in many famous sightseeing spots representing Kyoto such as Kiyomizu Temple and Gion. This time, we will introduce “Chishakuin Temple”(智積院), which is a must-visit place for Kyoto’s summer trip. Colorful ‘hydrangeas’ decorates the temple’s garden from June to early July, so you can enjoy rare-shaped hydrangeas.

Chishakuin Temple which was built in the 1600s is the head temple of the Chisan School of the Shingon sect of Buddism. The main hall and large study hall built in the Edo period have still remained and moreover, the paintings of the National Treasure ‘Maple Tree'(楓図) and ‘Cherry Blossoms'(桜図) have been stored.

Although there are many highlights, especially, the recommended spot for Kyoto travel from June to early July is the ‘Hydrangea garden’. It’s located at the back of the Kondo ( 金堂, main hall) with the five-colored curtains, and the colorful hydrangeas such as pink, blue and purple are full blooms when they’re the best season. Kyoto has a lot of famous hydrangea spots, but it seems that there aren’t many spots where flowers of various colors are mixed. Nevertheless, this garden is a secret place, so it’s also a good point that you can take your time looking at them.

In addition, there are also heart-shaped hydrangeas! It seems that the shape can be made naturally because they hang down under the weight of its flower. It’s also said that the flowers bring happiness and make a wish of love. Please try to find the unique ones.