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A Temple in Kita-Kamakura Known as the Temple of Hydrangeas.
Meigetsu-in is a Rinzai Zen temple of the Kencho-ji school. Its main object of worship is the goddess Sho Kannon.
t’s also known as the Temple of Hydrangeas, and in June around 2,500 hydrangea plants fill the grounds with beautiful blue in full bloom. The pale blue variety that blooms here is known as “Meigetsu-in Blue.” During the same season as the hydrangeas bloom, you can also visit the grounds’ iris garden, where you can enjoy beautiful Japanese irises (separate admission fee).
There are also wintersweet, plum, cherry, Japanese maple, maple, and other plants growing in addition to the hydrangeas, so whichever season you visit in, you’re sure to find beautiful views. Furthermore, the round window in the main hall is known as the “window of enlightenment,” and its round shape represents enlightenment, truth, and the vastness of the universe. The window also offers a view of the beautiful back garden. Other highlights include the carefully maintained Japanese rock garden and one of Kamakura’s largest yagura caves.
Meigetsu-in’s “window of enlightenment”
Hydrangeas blooming at the main gate
Beautifully maintained Japanese rock garden
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have pamphlets in other languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)
We don't have specific ones, but some English is included in our regular pamphlets.
Q
Do you have temple’s red ink stamps?
Yes, we do. However, during busy periods, we only provide stamps on paper (pre-written), not in Goshuincho (stamp books).
Q
Is parking available?
Not available.
Q
Are coin lockers available?
None are available here. However, there are some at the Kita-Kamakura station.
Some reviews are translated by AI.
It’s not just the hydrangeas—Meigetsu-in’s maple leaves are fantastic too.
This is one of the most famous hydrangea temples in Kamakura.
I visited in early November, so there were no hydrangeas, but you can still enjoy a beautiful garden.
In late November, many trees might be colored by autumn leaves, so I’d like to visit again then.
