Bunkyo Ajisai Festival is an early-summer hydrangea festival held at Hakusan Shrine in central Tokyo. After a long night shift, I was seeking a bit of calm and color—and I found it here. Though I had originally planned to visit only Hama-rikyu Gardens, this small detour turned out to be the true highlight of the day.
History of the Festival
The festival began in the 1980s and has become a beloved seasonal tradition. Hydrangeas bloom across the shrine grounds and surrounding park, creating a rich, colorful display. Hakusan Shrine itself dates back to the Heian period and offers a peaceful, sacred atmosphere just minutes from the hustle of central Tokyo.
The Fujizuka is open to visitors for a limited time only!
One of the highlights is the temporary opening of the Fuji-zuka mound—a small artificial Mt. Fuji built in the Edo period for spiritual training. Normally off-limits, it is only accessible during the festival. Arriving just after 10 a.m., I found myself in a queue. But it was worth it—the view of hydrangeas lining the narrow stone path, and the vista from the top, was truly special.
🕙The Fuji-zuka is open only until June 15, 2025 (Sunday). This weekend is your last chance—don’t miss it!
Photo Highlights
There was also a lovely floral water basin (hanachōzu), with hydrangea petals gently floating in the stream. And nestled among the purple and blue blooms, a single white-and-pink lily stood out—graceful, vivid, and unexpectedly bold. As a physician, I was reminded of how one unique presence can anchor a space, much like a diagnosis that gives clarity in complexity.
Hydrangea for Home
At the shrine’s parking lot, hydrangea seedlings were also on sale—so charming that I couldn’t help but reach for one. They were lovely enough to make you want to try growing them at home.
Hydrangea cut flowers, however, are quite delicate. They’re also known for being difficult to keep fresh.
👉 How to Keep Hydrangeas Fresh
If you’re thinking of displaying flowers at home, be sure to check out our tips for reference.
Access Guide for Visitors
For international visitors:
- Nearest station: Hakusan Station (Toei Mita Line), 3-min walk
- Or: Hon-Komagome Station (Tokyo Metro Namboku Line), 5-min walk
Search “Hakusan Shrine, Bunkyo” on Google Maps for easy directions.
A Doctor’s Note
After a long night on call, I found that words were not what I needed—light, color, and quiet beauty worked far better. Hydrangeas reminded me that healing often begins not in the clinic, but in nature.
More Flower Content
If this article made you want to see more flowers, I invite you to explore my other ikebana arrangements as well.
While this article focused on the neighborhood charm of Bunkyo, the next post will explore a more expansive, scenic setting: hydrangeas at Hama-rikyu Gardens. Stay tuned!
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🌸 If this post inspired you to try ikebana, check out our recommended lessons here:
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