Introducing a 1-night, 2-day model course to explore Kamakura’s hydrangea spots, which can be enjoyed even during the rainy season. Embark on a soothing journey through historic temples, charming streets, and delicious local cuisine.
Day 1: Touring Famous Hydrangea Spots & Exploring the Ancient City
10:00 Arrive at Kita-Kamakura Station
Our journey begins at Kita-Kamakura Station, surrounded by lush greenery. As you step off the train, you’re enveloped in a tranquility and refreshing atmosphere that feels like a world apart from the city. Just breathing in this air has a mysterious way of resetting your mind. The first stop in Kita-Kamakura is Engaku-ji Temple—a place full of memories for us as a married couple and owners of the Kominka Inn, Kamakura Rakuan. We visited this temple on our very first date, back when we were still just a couple.
10:15 Engaku-ji Temple: A Place Where Memories and Hydrangeas Bloom
Engaku-ji Temple is a prestigious Zen temple ranked second among the Five Great Zen Temples of Kamakura. Since its founding in the Kamakura period, it has been cherished by many monks and cultural figures. During the rainy season, hydrangeas bloom beautifully throughout the temple grounds, welcoming visitors in a serene and tranquil setting.
As you climb the stone steps, glimpses of the main hall and Buddha hall through the trees give the illusion that time has stopped. Highlights include the moss-covered gardens and the bamboo grove swaying gently in the wind. In the slow flow of time, you’ll find your mind naturally calming.
Pause for a moment, set your camera down, and take a deep breath. The scenery—where hydrangeas and ancient architecture blend—will surely soothe your soul.
11:30 Meigetsu-in (Hydrangea Temple)
After spending a peaceful time at Engaku-ji Temple, the next stop is Meigetsu-in, one of the most iconic hydrangea spots in Kita-Kamakura. The 10-minute walk from the station is pleasant, with a refreshing early summer breeze setting the mood for a relaxing stroll.
Meigetsu-in is so renowned for its hydrangeas that it is often affectionately called ‘the Hydrangea Temple.’ Come June, the entire temple grounds are bathed in shades of blue. The moment you pass through the gate, you’re greeted by a dreamlike landscape, as if you’ve stepped into another world. The stone path lined with blooming hydrangeas quietly welcomes each visitor.
Though many types of hydrangeas exist, Meigetsu-in mainly features a specific variety known as ‘Hime Ajisai’ (Princess Hydrangea), characterized by its vivid blue color. This unified hue creates a deep and calming beauty. Some visitors take photos, while others simply stand in quiet contemplation—each person finds their own way to enjoy the moment.
It’s truly a place where you can lose track of time and encounter a sense of inner peace.
12:30 Head Toward Kamakura Station & Enjoy Lunch
After feeling spiritually fulfilled at Meigetsu-in, it’s time to head toward the Kamakura Station area for lunch, exploring the popular Komachi Street or the more laid-back Onari Street.
Komachi Street is a bustling gourmet destination lined with stylish cafés and traditional Japanese eateries. A colorful lunch made with fresh, locally grown ‘Kamakura vegetables’ is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Onari Street offers a more relaxed atmosphere, home to unique shops beloved by locals. At a renovated traditional house-turned-restaurant, you can enjoy a slow-paced, vegetable-centered plate lunch—a perfect moment to forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
14:00 Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
After enjoying a satisfying lunch and a sweet treat, head to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, located in the heart of Kamakura. It’s about a 10-minute walk from Kamakura Station, and as you pass through Komachi Street, the vivid red torii gate comes into view, marking the next chapter of your journey.
This shrine, closely associated with Minamoto no Yoritomo, has long been revered as the spiritual heart of the Kamakura shogunate. As you walk along the grand approach known as Dankazura, the path gradually opens up, offering a breathtaking view of the main shrine that’s sure to make you pause in awe.
The spacious grounds are home to ponds and forests, where the lush greenery and gentle sound of the wind create a peaceful early summer ambiance. After paying your respects, take a leisurely stroll along the path encircling Genji Pond. You’ll spot hydrangeas blooming here and there, subtly coloring the landscape with the passing of the seasons.
16:00 Take a Break at a Café
After leaving Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and beginning to feel the pleasant fatigue of the afternoon, it’s the perfect time to enjoy Kamakura’s café culture. We wander down a charming alley and step into a quiet, tucked-away café.
Kamakura is home to many unique cafés—some housed in renovated traditional homes over a hundred years old, others known for their seasonal sweets and cozy atmosphere. Sitting by the window, wrapped in the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, we take a moment to reflect on the day’s memories together—an indulgent pause in the journey.
This season, many cafés offer limited-edition treats inspired by hydrangeas—cakes and jellies that are as beautiful as they are delicious. It feels as though we are savoring the changing expressions of Kamakura’s nature with all five senses.
Resting our tired feet while recharging our hearts for what’s next—this café time becomes a cherished moment of slow, luxurious relaxation that can only be experienced during a special journey.
17:00 Check In at a Traditional Kominka Inn
After a full day of walking, unwind at a traditional kominka inn that captures the essence of Kamakura.
Japanese traditional Inn Kamakura Rakuan
Experience the charm of Japanese tradition in a beautifully renovated kominka—a house over 70 years old. Surrounded by the warmth of wood, you’ll enjoy a quiet and restful evening in a space that truly reflects Kamakura’s atmosphere.
📍 Access: 3-minute walk from Enoden “Hase Station”
📍 URL：https://kamakura-rakuan.com
Japanese Modern Inn Kamakura Rakuan Hanare
Kamakura Rakuan Hanare” offers a charming blend of traditional Japanese and modern design. With an on-site café and bar, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a stylish drink in the evening.
📍 Access: 3-minute walk from Enoden “Hase Station”
📍 URL：https://kamakura-rakuanhanare.com
18:30 Dinner – A Delightful Experience of Local Cuisine
As the day of sightseeing draws to a close and the quiet of evening begins to settle over the town, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a leisurely dinner featuring local flavors.
Sharing delicious dishes while reflecting on the day’s adventures makes this moment all the more memorable, etching the experience even deeper into your heart.
Day 2: Savoring Hydrangeas and Ocean Views in the Hase
8:00 Breakfast (at the Inn or a Café)
Day 2 begins with a breath of fresh morning air. The first thing you feel upon waking is the peacefulness and clarity that can only be found when traveling. On a morning like this, a gentle, nourishing breakfast is just right.
A traditional Japanese breakfast served at your inn might include miso soup rich with dashi, freshly cooked rice, grilled fish, and tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet)—each dish carefully prepared to warm both body and soul.
Alternatively, the Hase and Yuigahama areas are home to many popular cafés with excellent morning menus. Enjoy a stylish yet heartwarming breakfast featuring freshly baked bread from local bakeries, salad plates with organic vegetables, and hand-drip coffee.
[Featured Spot]
Asagoyanya Rakuan
This calm, relaxing café is perfect for a peaceful morning. Their Japanese breakfast set is made with fresh, seasonal ingredients and offers a truly comforting start to the day.
Address: 16-9 Sakanoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0021
Access: 3-minute walk from Enoden “Hase Station
URL：https://breakfastrakuan.com
9:00 Hasedera: Hydrangea Paradise with a View of Sagami Bay
After breakfast on the second day, head to Hasedera Temple—one of Japan’s most famous hydrangea spots. Located just a 5-minute walk from Enoden’s Hase Station, this hillside temple transforms into a true ‘hydrangea paradise’ every June.
Along the sloped path known as the ‘Ajisai Road,’ over 2,500 hydrangea plants in about 40 varieties bloom in full glory, soothing visitors with their vibrant colors. As you ascend the narrow trail, the view changes step by step, and the contrast between the hydrangeas and the deep blue of Sagami Bay glimpsed through the flowers is simply breathtaking.
From the top of the trail, the panoramic view is awe-inspiring. The sea, sky, and blossoms blend into a scene so picturesque, it’s impossible not to reach for your camera. It’s a moment that perfectly captures the essence of early summer in Kamakura.
The temple grounds also feature the Kannon Hall, a sutra library, and a space for calligraphy meditation, offering many places for quiet reflection. This peaceful time away from the bustle may become one of the most deeply memorable moments of your journey.
11:00 Goryo Shrine
Just a few minutes’ walk from Hasedera Temple, still immersed in its lingering charm, you’ll find Goryo Shrine—a quiet, hidden gem nestled within a residential neighborhood. Founded during the Heian period, this historic site is one of Kamakura’s Five Goryo Shrines and has long been cherished by locals as a guardian sanctuary.
In early summer, Goryo Shrine becomes especially lively with the seasonal harmony of hydrangeas and the Enoden railway. One of its most iconic scenes is the sight of the Enoden train passing in front of the shrine’s torii gate, framed by blooming hydrangeas along the tracks. It’s not uncommon to see tourists with cameras poised, waiting to capture that perfect moment as the train rolls by.
The nostalgic scenery, combined with the vivid yet gentle hues of the hydrangeas, creates a beauty that is subtle yet deeply memorable. A peaceful, quiet spot just off the beaten path—it’s the perfect place for a serene pause in your journey.
12:30 Lunch: Savoring Kamakura Flavors with a Sea Breeze
After enjoying a peaceful moment at Goryo Shrine, you’ll likely find your appetite returning. Along the Enoden railway line, you’ll discover a variety of restaurants and cafés where you can savor the ocean’s open, breezy atmosphere.
Highly recommended are the stylish seaside eateries in the Hase and Yuigahama areas, many of which offer stunning ocean views. From fresh local seafood rice bowls and colorful plate lunches featuring Kamakura vegetables to seasonal, creative pasta dishes—each meal is a delight for both the eyes and the taste buds.
On sunny days, dining on a terrace with a view of the sea is simply exceptional. As you relax in the ocean breeze and reflect on the hydrangeas and the gentle rhythm of the Enoden, this leisurely lunch may become one of the most luxurious moments of your trip.
15:00 Return to Kamakura Station & Shop for Souvenirs
After enjoying a seaside lunch, it’s time to wrap up your journey by heading back toward Kamakura Station. The 5-minute Enoden ride from Hase Station offers a retro charm, with nostalgic townscapes passing by your window—another quintessential Kamakura experience.
Once you arrive at Kamakura Station, it’s time for one last treat: souvenir shopping. Komachi Street is lined with delightful shops offering traditional Japanese goods, local sweets made from regional ingredients, and handcrafted items—just browsing is a joy in itself. Popular picks include Hato Sabure cookies, bean snacks from Kamakura Mameya, and seasonal hydrangea-themed treats. These make perfect gifts for friends or thoughtful souvenirs for yourself. You might also reward your journey with a chic Japanese-style accessory or some calming incense as a personal keepsake.
16:00 End of the Tour
Summary: A Memorable 2-Day Kamakura Journey Colored by Hydrangeas
This hydrangea-themed trip to Kamakura offered a luxurious escape, where time seemed to slow down as we explored historic temples and immersed ourselves in the beauty of nature.
From the tranquil morning at Engaku-ji, the sea of blue at Meigetsu-in, the grandeur of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, to the stunning scenes of hydrangeas and Enoden trains at Hasedera and Goryo Shrine—each place brought its own atmosphere, conversations, and smiles that made the journey truly special. The local cuisine featuring Kamakura vegetables and fresh seafood, the charming hydrangea-themed sweets, and the café time with the ocean breeze in Yuigahama all added moments of healing and joy.
Even within just two days, taking the time to embrace the colors of the season in a relaxed manner allows you to step away from your daily routine and reconnect with yourself. Kamakura offers such a ‘journey with breathing room’—a trip rich in moments of reflection and peace.
I hope this blog serves as inspiration for your own Kamakura adventure. And may you, too, discover the joy of a place you’ll want to return to again and again, with each passing season.