What is the Amabiki Kannon Hydrangea Festival?
The Amabiki Kannon Hydrangea Festival (Amabiki Kannon Ajisai Matsuri) is a beautiful hydrangea (ajisai) event held every June at Amabiki Kannon (Amabikiyama Rakuho-ji) in Ibaraki Prefecture.
Over 5,000 hydrangea plants are planted on the temple grounds, and during the rainy season a colorful display of blooms fills the area.
Amabiki Kannon is known as a temple that offers blessings for and has long been a popular place of worship.
In addition, the scenery created by the surrounding nature and the hydrangeas is enchanting, making it a popular spot for international visitors who want to enjoy Japan’s seasonal beauty.
In this article we’ll introduce the festival’s highlights, event information, and how to get there!
Highlights of the Amabiki Kannon Hydrangea Festival
1. The beautiful collaboration of Amabiki Kannon and hydrangeas
Amabiki Kannon is a historic temple founded in the 6th century. Its official name is "Amabikiyama Rakuho-ji".
More than 5,000 hydrangea plants are planted on the grounds, and during the rainy season the hydrangeas bloom in a variety of colors — blue, purple, pink, and white.
Must-see hydrangea spots at Amabiki Kannon
- Spectacular views of hydrangeas spreading across the mountainside
- Hydrangeas blooming with the main hall and five-story pagoda as a backdrop make great photos
- Hydrangeas wet from the rain glisten vividly, creating a magical scene
The flower language of hydrangeas includes "fickleness" and "family togetherness," and combined with the quiet atmosphere of Amabiki Kannon, the site becomes a peaceful place to relax.
2. Event period and best times to visit
The Amabiki Kannon Hydrangea Festival is usually held from mid-June to mid-July each year.
Bloom times vary with the weather, but the best viewing period is mid to late June.
Recommended times to visit
- Morning (8:00–10:00): Fewer people, a quiet time to enjoy the hydrangeas
- Late afternoon (16:00–18:00): Softer light, ideal for photography
Since it’s the rainy season, it’s a good idea to bring rain gear (umbrella or raincoat).
3. History of Amabiki Kannon and its blessings
Amabiki Kannon is a venerable temple founded in 587 AD and belongs to the Shingon Buddhism Buzan sect.
The name "Amabiki" is said to come from a legend that the temple "calls the rain," and it has long been worshiped as a guardian for agriculture.
Blessings of Amabiki Kannon
- Safe childbirth and child-rearing (famous as a temple protecting mothers and children)
- Academic success and exam prayers (popular with students)
- Recovery from illness and health prayers (many visitors pray for family health)
Also, peacocks roam freely on the temple grounds, and their graceful presence is another highlight.
When you visit, be sure to offer a prayer at the main hall to receive the temple’s blessings.
4. Nearby sightseeing spots
When you visit the Amabiki Kannon Hydrangea Festival, it’s recommended to also enjoy nearby attractions.
① Mount Tsukuba
- A famous peak with an elevation of 877 meters, offering hiking and climbing
- From the summit you can see the Kanto Plain, and on clear days even Mount Fuji
② Kasama Inari Shrine
- One of Japan’s three major Inari shrines, known for blessings of business prosperity and good luck
- You can also try Kasama-yaki pottery workshops
③ Tsukuba Expo Center
- A science center where you can experience space and science, popular with families
- Features one of Japan’s largest planetariums
When touring Ibaraki, be sure to visit not only the hydrangeas at Amabiki Kannon but also these nearby attractions!
Practical information for travelers
Access information (How to get to Amabiki Kannon)
By train and bus
- Take the JR Mito Line to "Iwase Station" → taxi about 15 minutes
By car
- From Tokyo: About 20 minutes from the Jōban Expressway "Sakuragawa-Chikusei IC"
- From Mito: About 1 hour via National Route 50
Parking information
- There is a free parking lot on the temple grounds (it gets crowded during the autumn leaves and hydrangea seasons, so arrive early)
Wi‑Fi information
- Wi‑Fi is not available on the temple grounds, so it’s convenient to download maps in advance
- Free Wi‑Fi is available at cafes and tourist information centers in the Tsukuba area
Language support
- Tourist information centers offer pamphlets in English and Chinese
- There is little English signage or guidance at Amabiki Kannon, so having a translation app is helpful
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
The Amabiki Kannon Hydrangea Festival is a beautiful Ibaraki event you can enjoy even during the rainy season.
The sight of hydrangeas wet with rain coloring the temple grounds is well worth a visit!
Offer a prayer at the historic Amabiki Kannon and enjoy Japan’s seasonal beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the best season for the Amabiki Kannon Hydrangea Festival?
A: The best viewing time is mid to late June. Weekends can be crowded, so weekdays are recommended.
Q: Can I enjoy the festival on rainy days?
A: Yes — hydrangeas look even more beautiful when wet. Bringing rain gear is recommended.
Q: Are there places nearby for lunch?
A: There are many restaurants around Mount Tsukuba where you can enjoy soba and local dishes.
Q: Is it suitable for families with children?
A: Yes — the temple grounds are spacious and there are peacocks, so it’s a great destination for families.
Be sure to experience the beauty of Amabiki Kannon’s hydrangeas in Ibaraki!
