Meigetsuin (Kanagawa Prefecture) Complete Guide | Highlights of the Hydrangea Temple, History, Access, and Visitor Information
Meigetsuin, located in Yamanouchi, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a Rinzai Zen temple affiliated with Kenchoji that is nationally famous as the “Hydrangea Temple.” When the rainy season arrives, approximately 2,500 hydrangea plants fill the temple grounds, and their vivid blue color continues to captivate visitors as the “Meigetsuin Blue.” This article provides a detailed explanation of all information you should know before visiting, from the history of Meigetsuin to its highlights, seasonal attractions, access methods, and visitor information.
About Meigetsuin | A Zen Temple Representing Kamakura
Meigetsuin (明月院) is formally known as “Fukugenzan Meigetsuin,” a temple of the Rinzai Zen sect affiliated with Kenchoji. Located in the Kita-Kamakura area, it holds the status of a temple next in rank to the Five Great Temples of Kamakura, serving as an important place that conveys the history and culture of Kamakura to the present day.
While affectionately known as the “Hydrangea Temple,” Meigetsuin possesses many charms beyond hydrangeas, including the seasonal garden scenery viewed through the round window of the main hall, the grave of Hojo Tokiyori, and the atmosphere of a Zen temple enveloped in silence. As a spectacular spot representing Kamakura, it attracts many visitors from both Japan and abroad.
History of Meigetsuin | An Ancient Temple Connected to the Hojo Clan
Origins of the Founding and Meigetsuan
The history of Meigetsuin dates back to the late Heian period, specifically to Eikoku 1 (1160). In this year, Yamanouchi Tsunetoshi, son of Shudo Toshimichi who died in the Heiji Rebellion, is said to have founded “Meigetsuan” to commemorate his father’s soul. This Meigetsuan became the predecessor of the present-day Meigetsuin.
From Saimyoji to Zenxingji
In the mid-Kamakura period, Hojo Tokiyori, the fifth shogunal regent, established a Zen temple called Saimyoji at this location. After Tokiyori’s death, Hojo Tokisada, who became the eighth shogunal regent, founded a large temple called Zenxingji in Kangenyuan 1 (1256) to commemorate his father Tokiyori’s soul. Zenxingji was so prestigious that it was counted as one of the “Ten Temples,” ranking just below the Five Great Temples of Kamakura.
Establishment of Meigetsuin
In Yonwa 1 (1375) during the Muromachi period, Uesugi Norikata, a regional military commander, founded Meigetsuin as a sub-temple of Zenxingji. A sub-temple (tatchu) is a small temple built within the grounds of a larger temple, and Meigetsuin began as one of the temples within Zenxingji.
Changes After the Meiji Restoration
Due to the influence of the Buddhist temple destruction movement (Haibutsu Kishaku) in the early Meiji period, Zenxingji was abolished in Meiji 2 (1869). However, only Meigetsuin, which was a sub-temple, survived and continues to the present day having inherited the temple records of Zenxingji. For this reason, Meigetsuin still retains structures from the Zenxingji era and the grave of Hojo Tokiyori.
Meigetsuin Blue | The Charm of the Hydrangea Temple
A World of Blue Created by 2,500 Hydrangea Plants
Meigetsuin became famous as the “Hydrangea Temple” because of approximately 2,500 hydrangea plants planted throughout the temple grounds. What is particularly noteworthy is that most of these are “Himealajsai,” a Japanese native variety that blooms in vivid blue flowers.
From mid-June to late June, the rainy season period, the entire temple grounds from the approach path to the main hall are filled with these beautiful blue hydrangeas. This distinctive blue color is called “Meigetsuin Blue” and creates a spectacular landscape that enchants all who visit.
The Reason Meigetsuin Blue Is So Beautiful
The reason the hydrangeas at Meigetsuin display such beautiful blue coloration is due to the soil composition of Kamakura and the characteristics of the plant variety. The color of hydrangea flowers changes depending on the soil’s acidity level—they bloom blue in acidic soil and red in alkaline soil. Because the soil in Kamakura is strongly acidic, Himealajsai displays a vivid blue color.
Additionally, Meigetsuin creates a sense of color unity by standardizing the variety. Unlike other famous hydrangea viewing spots where diverse colors such as blue, purple, white, and pink are mixed together, Meigetsuin creates a more striking landscape with a world of solid blue flowers.
Peak Viewing Season for Hydrangeas and Best Season
The peak viewing season for hydrangeas at Meigetsuin is typically from mid-June to late June. The height of the season is particularly from around June 15 to the end of the month, when the temple is bustling with many visitors.
However, weekends and holidays during hydrangea season are extremely crowded, so for those wishing to view them at leisure, a visit on a weekday morning or evening is recommended. The period around 9 o’clock shortly after opening and after 4 o’clock before closing tends to be less crowded.
The Round Window of the Main Hall | A Spectacular View from the “Window of Enlightenment”
The Circular Window Framing the Garden of Four Seasons
One must-see when visiting Meigetsuin is the view of the garden seen through the round window (circular window) in the main hall. This round window is also called the “Window of Enlightenment” and is designed as a circular window symbolizing enlightenment and truth in Zen temples.
When a circular window approximately one meter in diameter is viewed as a picture frame, the garden beyond it is framed like a single painting. This composition creates a beauty that is one of Kamakura’s representative spectacular views, captivating many photographers and tourists.
Scenery That Changes With Each Season
The garden viewed through the round window presents different faces throughout the seasons.
- Spring: Fresh green foliage stands out vividly, creating a landscape full of vitality
- Early Summer: Contrast between blue hydrangeas and fresh green leaves
- Autumn: Autumn leaves color in reds and yellows, creating a blazingly beautiful landscape
- Winter: Snowy scenery or the quiet landscape of bare trees
Particularly from late November to early December during autumn foliage season, the garden behind the main hall is sometimes specially opened to the public, offering a rare opportunity to actually walk through the garden from inside the round window.
Photography Tips
Photographing the round window involves taking pictures of a bright garden from a dim interior space, so exposure adjustment is important. To maintain the silhouette of the window’s frame while beautifully expressing the garden’s colors, setting exposure compensation to the minus side works well. Additionally, since tripod use may obstruct other visitors, hand-held shooting is the standard.
Highlights of Meigetsuin | A Thorough Introduction to the Temple’s Attractions
Mountain Gate and Approach Path
Upon arriving at Meigetsuin, the first thing that catches the eye is the stately mountain gate. Passing through this gate, a path bordered on both sides by hydrangeas continues ahead. During June season, this path becomes a tunnel of Meigetsuin Blue, inviting visitors into another world.
The approach path slopes gradually upward, and the composition where the view gradually opens up as you climb the stone steps conveys the subtlety of spatial design unique to Zen temples.
The Founding Master’s Hall and the Grave of Hojo Tokiyori
At the back of the temple grounds is the founding master’s hall, and behind it lies the grave (stone reliquary pagoda) of Hojo Tokiyori, who founded Saimyoji, the predecessor of Meigetsuin. Tokiyori, who served as the fifth shogunal regent of the Kamakura shogunate, was a figure who greatly contributed to the development of Zen Buddhism and is an indispensable part of Meigetsuin’s history.
The area around the grave is enveloped in silence, creating a space where one can pay respects quietly while feeling the weight of history.
The Abbot’s Quarters (Main Hall)
The main hall, called the abbot’s quarters, is the building famous for its round window. Inside, the main statue of Kannon Bodhisattva is enshrined, and a quiet Zen space spreads throughout. Since you can sit in the main hall and enjoy the view of the round window slowly, it is recommended to visit with sufficient time to spare.
Dry Landscape Garden
In front of the main hall is a beautiful dry landscape garden. Composed of white sand and stone arrangements, this garden expresses Zen spirituality and embodies the beauty of silence and harmony. In contrast to the vibrant beauty of the hydrangeas, you can experience a refined and polished beauty.
“Flower-Loving” Jizo Statue
In the temple grounds stands a cute Jizo statue called “Hana-Omoii Jizo” (Flower-Loving Jizo). This Jizo statue, surrounded by seasonal flowers, is a popular photo spot that brings joy to visitors’ hearts.
Yagura (Horizontal Grave Chambers)
The temple grounds contain “yagura,” horizontal tunnel-like grave chambers unique to Kamakura. These are burial grounds of warriors constructed from the Kamakura period through the Muromachi period, serving as valuable historical remains that convey the funeral culture of that era to the present day.
The Charm of Meigetsuin Throughout the Seasons
Spring at Meigetsuin | Fresh Greenery and Cherry Blossoms
From late March to early April, cherry blossoms planted in the temple grounds bloom. Though not on the scale of the hydrangeas, enjoying cherry blossoms in the quiet atmosphere of a Zen temple is extraordinary. Additionally, from April through May, the fresh green foliage is beautiful, and the garden viewed through the round window is enveloped in vivid green.
Early Summer at Meigetsuin | The Hydrangea Season
June is the busiest season at Meigetsuin. As mentioned earlier, approximately 2,500 hydrangeas fill the temple grounds, and the world of Meigetsuin Blue unfolds. Special viewing fees may be set during this period, but it is certainly worth visiting to see the spectacular view that awaits.
Autumn at Meigetsuin | The Beauty of Autumn Leaves
From late November to early December, the trees on the temple grounds display autumn colors, particularly in the garden behind the main hall. During this period, the rear garden is often specially opened to the public, offering a rare opportunity to actually walk through the garden that normally can only be seen through the round window. The round window during autumn foliage season, with its bright reds and yellows fitting within the frame, is truly like a painting.
Winter at Meigetsuin | The Quiet Zen Temple
Winter at Meigetsuin sees fewer visitors, allowing one to experience the quiet atmosphere of a Zen temple in its true form. Meigetsuin is particularly beautiful on snowy days, and the temple grounds enveloped in a white world create a fantastical landscape. Additionally, in January, winter plum flowers bloom, and their subtle fragrance envelops the grounds.
Visitor Information | Opening Hours, Admission Fees, and Closed Days
Visiting Hours
- Normal Period (except June): 9:00～16:00 (Last entry 15:30)
- June (Hydrangea Season): 8:30～17:00 (Last entry 16:30)
※Hours may change depending on the season, so please confirm official information before your visit.
Admission Fees
- Normal Period: Adults ¥500, Elementary/Middle School Students ¥300
- June (Hydrangea Season): Adults ¥500, Elementary/Middle School Students ¥300
- During Special Opening of the Garden Behind the Main Hall (June, November～December): Additional ¥500
※Fees may change, so please confirm the latest information.
Closed Days
Open year-round (However, temporary closures may occur due to weather or events)
Time Required
To view the temple grounds at a leisurely pace, plan on approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour. During hydrangea season or autumn foliage season when crowds are heavy, plan on 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours including wait times.
Access Information | How to Get to Meigetsuin
Access by Train
The nearest station to Meigetsuin is “Kita-Kamakura Station” on the JR Yokosuka Line.
- Approximately 10 minutes walk from Kita-Kamakura Station on the JR Yokosuka Line
Exiting the Kita-Kamakura Station ticket gate, proceed to the right (toward Kamakura Station) and cross the railroad crossing. Continue straight, turn right at the first traffic light, and follow the road. The entrance to Meigetsuin will appear on your left. Direction signs are posted along the route, so first-time visitors should be able to find it without getting lost.
Access from Tokyo Area
- From Tokyo Station: Approximately 55 minutes on the JR Yokosuka Line, exit at Kita-Kamakura Station
- From Shinjuku Station: Approximately 60 minutes on the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line, exit at Kita-Kamakura Station
- From Shinagawa Station: Approximately 50 minutes on the JR Yokosuka Line, exit at Kita-Kamakura Station
Access from Yokohama Area
- From Yokohama Station: Approximately 25 minutes on the JR Yokosuka Line, exit at Kita-Kamakura Station
Car Access and Parking
Meigetsuin does not have its own parking lot. There are several paid parking lots around Kita-Kamakura Station, but their capacity is limited, and they often fill up, especially during hydrangea season and autumn foliage season.
The use of public transportation is strongly recommended. However, if traveling by car, consider parking at a large parking lot near Kamakura Station and traveling to Kita-Kamakura Station by JR Yokosuka Line.
Access by Bus
If using a bus from Kamakura Station, get off at the Enoshima Electric Bus “Meigetsuin” stop, which is just a short walk. However, since the number of buses is limited, access by train is more convenient.
Tourist Spots Around Meigetsuin
Engakuji
A major temple ranking second among the Five Great Temples of Kamakura, located a 1-minute walk from Kita-Kamakura Station. It features a nationally designated treasure, the Shariden pagoda, and beautiful gardens, making it a must-see when combined with a visit to Meigetsuin.
Kenchoji
Ranking first among the Five Great Temples of Kamakura, Kenchoji is located approximately 15 minutes walk from Kita-Kamakura Station. The expansive grounds and important cultural property buildings are highlights.
Tokkeiji
Located approximately 5 minutes walk from Meigetsuin, this temple is famous as a “temple of divorce.” The seasonal flowers are beautiful, and the plum blossoms in particular are spectacular.
Jozenji
Ranking fourth among the Five Great Temples of Kamakura, located approximately 8 minutes walk from Kita-Kamakura Station. The moss-covered approach path and quiet grounds are particularly charming.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting Meigetsuin
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
June’s hydrangea season is particularly crowded. If you wish to avoid crowds, consider the following times and dates.
- Weekday mornings shortly after opening (around 9 a.m.)
- Weekday evenings (after 4 p.m.)
- Early June (before peak bloom, but flowers are blooming)
- Early July (peak season has passed, but flowers can still be enjoyed)
Photography Etiquette
Meigetsuin is a popular photography spot, but consideration for other visitors is necessary.
- Refrain from using tripods during crowded times
- Avoid monopolizing the area in front of the round window for extended photography
- Be mindful of surroundings when photographing in narrow paths or passages
- Do not damage plants or enter off-limit areas
Clothing and Accessories
- Comfortable walking shoes (the temple grounds have stone steps and slopes)
- Rain gear (an umbrella or raincoat is necessary as June is rainy season)
- Parasol or hat (strong sunlight in summer)
- Drinking water (there are no vending machines in the temple grounds)
Visiting Etiquette
Meigetsuin is a tourist destination but also functions as a place of worship and faith.
- Visit quietly
- Remove hats when inside the main hall
- Keep mobile phones on silent mode
- Take trash with you
- Smoking only in designated areas
Meigetsuin’s Goshuincho (Temple Seal) Information
You can receive a goshuincho (temple seal) at Meigetsuin. The seal office is located near the main hall, and a fee of approximately ¥300～¥500 (separate from the viewing fee) is required. ※Fees may vary.
The temple seal features calligraphy of “Kannon Bodhisattva” or “Meigetsuin” with the temple’s seal stamped below. Limited edition seasonal seals are sometimes available, so those collecting temple seals may want to check information in advance.
During busy periods, obtaining a seal may take time, so it is recommended to visit with adequate time to spare.
Nearby Dining and Cafes Around Meigetsuin
Restaurants Near Kita-Kamakura
There are several dining spots worth stopping at after visiting Kita-Kamakura Station.
- Hachi no Ki: An established establishment serving vegetarian cuisine and kaiseki
- Kyoroan: A famous soba restaurant
- Takarano Niwa: A cafe in a renovated traditional house
- Chabo Unmo: A sweet shop famous for white ball mochi with red bean paste
Dining Near Kamakura Station
Extending your visit to Kamakura Station from Kita-Kamakura provides even more dining options. Komachi Street offers abundant street food, making it enjoyable to combine sightseeing with eating.
Kamakura Sightseeing Model Courses Including Meigetsuin
Half-Day Course (Kita-Kamakura Area)
- 9:00 Arrive at Kita-Kamakura Station
- 9:10 Visit Engakuji (30 minutes)
- 10:00 Visit Meigetsuin (60 minutes)
- 11:15 Visit Tokkeiji (30 minutes)
- 12:00 Lunch at a restaurant near Kita-Kamakura
One-Day Course (All of Kamakura)
- 9:00 Arrive at Kita-Kamakura Station, visit Engakuji
- 10:00 Visit Meigetsuin
- 11:30 Visit Kenchoji
- 13:00 Lunch near Kamakura Station
- 14:30 Visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
- 15:30 Stroll down Komachi Street
- 17:00 Depart from Kamakura Station
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1: What is the address of Meigetsuin?
A: The address of Meigetsuin is “189 Yamanouchi, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture.” The postal code is 247-0062.
Q2: What are the hours of operation for Meigetsuin?
A: Hours are 9:00～16:00 during the normal period (last entry 15:30), and 8:30～17:00 during June’s hydrangea season (last entry 16:30). Hours may change depending on the season, so please confirm before your visit.
Q3: When is Meigetsuin closed?
A: Meigetsuin is generally open year-round. However, temporary closures may occur due to weather or temple events, so if concerned, it is recommended to confirm in advance.
Q4: What is the admission fee to Meigetsuin?
A: The viewing fee is ¥500 for adults and ¥300 for elementary and middle school students. During special openings of the garden behind the main hall (June and November～December), an additional ¥500 is required. Fees may change, so please confirm the latest information.
Q5: Does Meigetsuin have a parking lot?
A: Meigetsuin does not have its own parking lot. While there are several paid parking lots near Kita-Kamakura Station, their capacity is limited, so the use of public transportation is recommended.
Q6: When is the peak season for hydrangea viewing?
A: The peak season is typically from mid-June to late June. The height of the season is particularly from around June 15 to the end of the month. However, the dates may shift slightly depending on the weather of the year.
Q7: Is the temple wheelchair accessible?
A: The temple grounds have many stone steps and slopes, so it is not completely wheelchair accessible. Wheelchair visitors may find some areas difficult to access, so it is recommended to contact the temple in advance to discuss your needs.
Q8: Can I bring pets with me?
A: Meigetsuin generally prohibits visitors from bringing pets. However, service animals such as guide dogs are excepted.
Q9: When is the garden behind the main hall open to the public?
A: The garden behind the main hall is normally closed to the public, but it is often specially opened during hydrangea season in June and autumn foliage season from late November to early December. The opening period varies by year, so please check official information.
Q10: Can I enjoy a visit on a rainy day?
A: Hydrangeas become even more beautiful when wet from rain, so a visit on a rainy day during rainy season is recommended. However, the ground becomes slippery, so prepare comfortable shoes and rain gear.
Conclusion | Experience Kamakura’s Seasons at Meigetsuin
Meigetsuin, located in Yamanouchi, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is nationally renowned as the “Meigetsuin Blue” hydrangea temple, but its appeal extends far beyond hydrangeas alone. From the seasonal garden scenery viewed through the round window of the main hall, to the history connected to Hojo Tokiyori, to the atmosphere of a Zen temple enveloped in silence, there is something new to discover with each visit.
While hydrangea season in June is particularly crowded, the spectacular view that awaits is worth a visit regardless. Additionally, the ability to enjoy different beauty throughout the seasons—spring’s fresh greenery, autumn’s crimson leaves, and winter’s tranquility—is another major charm of Meigetsuin.
The convenient access, just a 10-minute walk from Kita-Kamakura Station, is also an attractive feature. When visiting Kamakura, be sure to stop by Meigetsuin to experience one of Kamakura’s representative spectacular views and touch the spirit of Zen. The beauty of the blooming hydrangeas and the garden viewed through the round window will surely become an unforgettable memory.
By confirming visiting hours, fees, and crowd conditions in advance and visiting with a flexible schedule, you can enjoy a more fulfilling temple visit. Experience the history and natural beauty of Kamakura fully at Meigetsuin.
