From late May to mid-June, you can enjoy the sight of hydrangeas (ajisai) dotting the city of Tokyo. If you love taking photos of flowers in different settings, then check out these three slightly unknown spots in the city.
Fureai Bridge, Edogawa-ku
By the Old Nakagawa River near the Fureai Bridge, you can stroll by rows and rows of hydrangeas in an array of colors.
With a view of the Tokyo Skytree in the distance, you can get some amazing shots at sunset with the hydrangeas. The location is known for its serene waterfront atmosphere.
Closest Station: Hirai Station on the JR Chuo-Sobu Line.
Access: Approximately a 15-minute walk from the South Exit of Hirai Station.
Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/s3FrhwUr9AQtrqpEA
Hakusan Shrine, Bunkyo-ku
In the heart of Tokyo, Hakusan Shrine is famous for its Bunkyo Ajisai Matsuri (Hydrangea Festival) that is held annually.
There are over 3,000 hydrangea bushes planted in the vicinity of the shrine and the adjacent Hakusan Park. The festival often features unique events like a flea market and music performances on the weekends.
Estimated Festival Dates (2026): Early to Mid-June 2026 (The festival is reliably held for about a week in June. The 2026 dates are estimated to be June 6 – June 14).
Closest Station: Hakusan Station on the Toei Mita Line (Exit A3).
Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/MYFS86B5vWp8tgfE8
Asukayama Park, Kita-ku
Known for its cherry blossoms, Asukayama Park by the railways tracks is a train lover’s paradise.
The hydrangeas are planted along the railway tracks on the path known as “Asuka-no-komichi”, and you can get some amazing shots with JR Keihin Tohoku Line trains and the Toden Arakawa Line streetcar in the background. The park also features the free, snail-shaped funicular called the “Asuka Park Rail.”
Closest Station: Oji Station on the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line or JR Keihin Tohoku Line.
Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/cactjDZmg97YXLAr7
Embracing the Rainy Season
All of these spots are free and open to the public. The best time to visit is during Japan’s rainy season (Tsuyu) in June, when the hydrangeas are at their peak and their colors are most vibrant. Are you planning to add these to your list to enjoy a sight that is associated with summer in Japan?
