After enjoying the Ajisai Festival in Bunkyo, I headed to Takahata Fudoson Kongoji Temple in Hino, Tokyo.
This historic site offers a breathtaking harmony of a national treasure five-story pagoda and delicate mountain hydrangeas blooming along the forested paths.
🏯What is Takahata Fudoson?
Takahata Fudoson Kongoji Temple is one of the Three Great Fudo Temples in the Kanto region, belonging to the Shingon Buddhist Chizan school. It is known for its striking red five-story pagoda, rebuilt in 1991, and its historic Nio Gate, designated as an Important Cultural Property.
🚶♀️The 88 Sacred Sites Pilgrimage Course
Inside the temple grounds is a miniature version of the Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage. It’s a popular light hiking course, with moss-covered statues and quiet paths that invite peaceful reflection.
🧭 Why Mountain Hydrangeas Are Special Here
What makes this site truly special is its extensive display of yama-ajisai (mountain hydrangeas). Unlike the more showy Western or mophead hydrangeas, these native varieties are subtle and delicate, blooming quietly in the shade of old forest trees—capturing the essence of traditional Japanese aesthetics.
👉 How to Keep Hydrangeas Fresh
🌿 Highlights
A dramatic contrast of red pagoda and blue hydrangeas.
Stone Jizo statues with gentle smiles and hand-knit hats bring a warm, human touch.
Winding green paths lined with blooming hydrangeas—perfect for a peaceful rainy-season walk.
🗓 Festival Info
41st Takahata Fudoson Ajisai Festival
Dates: June 1–30, 2025
Best Viewing: Late May to mid-June
Note: No evening illumination, but the morning light enhances the subtle beauty of the flowers.
🚃 How to Get There
📍 Address: 733 Takahata, Hino City, Tokyo
🚶♂️ 5-minute walk from Keio Line Takahatafudo Station
🚗 Parking lot available (charged)
📝 Closing Thoughts
Hydrangeas blooming at the foot of a sacred pagoda, Jizo statues quietly watching over the path—this place offers a peaceful escape, a reminder to breathe and simply be.
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