Hondoji Temple in Hiraga, Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture, is putting on a spectacular floral show this season, with 50,000 hydrangeas (ajisai) and 5,000 Japanese iris (hanashobu) blooming across its grounds. The blooming season is expected to continue through late June.
This year, the flowers are growing well as in previous years, with vividly colored hydrangeas brightening the entire temple precincts.
Affectionately known as the "hydrangea temple" and the "four seasons flower temple," Hondoji Temple stands out for its impressive scale — a sprawling 30,000-square-meter undulating precinct. The sight of hydrangeas blooming against the backdrop of the temple's historic five-story pagoda and the venerable Niomon (Two Kings) gate is picturesque from every angle. Located just about 40 minutes from Ueno Station in Tokyo via the JR Joban Line (alight at Kita-Kogane Station), the temple makes for an easy early-summer day trip from the city and draws visitors year after year.
Highlights and History of Hondoji Temple
Hondoji Temple traces its origins to 1277 (Kenji 3), when a Dharma hall was built on the former estate of the Hiraga clan with the support of Soya Kyoshin, a devoted follower of Nichiren, the founder of the Nichiren sect of Buddhism. The name "hondo" refers to the pure land where the Buddha resides, and the trees, plants, and flowers in the precinct are said to embody a prayer to guide visitors' hearts to peace.
1) A Spectacular Color Harmony of Hydrangeas and Iris
Beyond the 50,000 hydrangeas, 5,000 Japanese iris bloom simultaneously, creating a beautiful early-summer gradient rich in color variety that can only be seen during this season.
2) A Picturesque Blend with Historic Structures
The five-story pagoda — the symbol of the temple precinct — framed by hydrangeas blooming against a lush green backdrop, makes for a breathtaking sight from every vantage point.
Visitor Information
Address: 63 Hiraga, Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture 270-0002 (10-minute walk from JR Joban Line "Kita-Kogane Station")
Hours:
- During the June paid admission period: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM)
- Regular hours: 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM (open year-round)
Admission:
- Adults (middle school age and older): ¥500
- Children (elementary school): Free
- Groups (20 or more): ¥400
- Visitors with disabilities: ¥300
