What Kind of Place Is Mimurotoji Temple, the Hydrangea Temple? Watch the Magical Night Light-Up in 4K

This video, titled "【4k】Hydrangea of Mimurodo temple: Kyoto" (【4k】三室戸寺・あじさい園-Hydrangea of Mimurodo temple：Kyoto), was uploaded by "Anna Film Production."

Mimurotoji Temple (三室戸寺, Mimurotoji, also read as Mimurodoji), located in Uji, Kyoto, is one of Japan's most celebrated hydrangea destinations, affectionately known as the "Hydrangea Temple." With approximately 20,000 hydrangeas of 50 varieties blanketing a sprawling 5,000-tsubo (roughly 4-acre) garden, the sight is simply breathtaking. This stunning 4K video captures every detail of the garden's magical evening light-up in vivid clarity.
[Video] 0:36 - Illuminated Hydrangeas at Mimurotoji Temple

What Kind of Temple Is Mimurotoji? Its 1,200-Year History and Deep Connection to The Tale of Genji

Photo：Mimurotoji Temple, Kyoto

Mimurotoji Temple, an important temple in Western Japan, dates back to the Nara period (710–794 AD). According to temple legends, it was founded by a high-ranking Buddhist monk at the request of Emperor Konin in 770 AD, approximately 1,200 years ago. Mimurotoji Temple was originally written "御室戸寺" in Chinese characters, but after it served as a detached palace for Emperor Konin, Emperor Kazan, and Emperor Shirakawa, the first character "御" was replaced with "三" (three), to honor the three emperors, giving us the name "三室戸寺" (Mimurotoji). After many ups and downs throughout history, the current main hall was rebuilt in 1814 during the late Edo period by the monk Honyo.

The temple is also considered to be the model for the mountain temple depicted in Uji Jujo (The Ten Chapters of Uji), one of the final sections of The Tale of Genji. The name "Ukifune" is engraved on a bell cast approximately 350 years ago, and also on an ancient stone monument nearby. These inscriptions suggest that Mimurotoji Temple has been cherished as a site connected to The Tale of Genji since at least the early Edo period (circa 1603 to 1700 AD).

When Is the Best Time to See the Hydrangeas at Mimurotoji Temple in 2026? A Complete Guide to Light-Up Dates and Admission Fees

Photo：Hydrangeas at Mimurotoji Temple, Kyoto

Visitors to the temple can enjoy the sight of 20,000 hydrangeas of 50 different varieties, including Western hydrangeas, lacecap hydrangeas, oakleaf hydrangeas, and the rare Shichidanka (七段花), known as the "phantom hydrangea." The best time to visit is from early June to early July. The official Mimurotoji Temple Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) regularly post updates on the blooming status, so be sure to check them before heading out.

We highly recommend that visitors planning to see the 2026 hydrangeas check the temple's official social media for the latest bloom information in advance.

Along with the illuminated hydrangeas, another beloved highlight is the heart-shaped hydrangea. Popularized by Iwai Seika, a teahouse operating within the temple grounds, it has become famous as the origin of the "heart hydrangea that brings happiness." Keep your eyes peeled for it as you wander through the enchanting illuminated garden.
[Video] 0:29 - A Heart-Shaped Hydrangea

Heart-shaped amulets and Ema (絵馬, votive plaques) are also available. In addition, there are 4 types of regular goshuin (御朱印, temple stamps) and seasonal limited editions, so stamp collectors should be sure to check them out.

●Hydrangea Garden (Daytime)
May 31 – July 5, 2026
Hours: 8:30 – 15:10 (last entry 15:40)

●Hydrangea Garden (Light-Up)
Saturdays and Sundays only, June 13 – 28, 2026
Hours: 19:00 – 21:00 (registration closes at 20:30)

Daytime and evening sessions operate on a separate-entry basis. Admission is 1,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for children for both sessions.

Is Mimurotoji Temple Also a Famous Power Spot? Experience a Boost in Fortune with the Guardian Rabbit, Snake, and Ox

Photo：Ugashin, the guardian snake of Mimurotoji Temple, Kyoto

Unlike most temples that feature komainu (guardian lion-dogs), Mimurotoji Temple has stone statues of a guardian rabbit (Fukutoku-usagi) and a guardian ox (Hosho-ushi) near the main hall, as well as a guardian snake (Ugashin) beside the stone steps.

Ugashin is a striking statue with a human head and snake body. Rubbing it is said to bring good fortune and financial luck. The guardian rabbit statue stands 1.5 meters tall (~5 ft.) and holds a large ball. Legend has it that if the egg-shaped stone inside the ball stands upright, your wish will come true. Stroking the guardian ox is said to bring victory and good luck as well.

Note that the main hall area is not accessible during the evening light-up, so be sure to pay your respects and seek a fortune boost during your daytime visit.

Is There More to Mimurotoji Temple Than Hydrangeas? A Guide to Four Seasons of Flowers and Year-Round Highlights

Photo：Azaleas at Mimurotoji Temple, Kyoto

The temple sits on a 5,000-tsubo (approximately 4-acre) plot of land, and in addition to the hydrangea garden, the grounds also feature an azalea garden and a weeping plum garden.
The Shidare Ume (weeping plum) Garden is home to 250 weeping plum trees in red and white. In 2026, the garden will be open from February 14 to March 22, from 8:30 to 15:10.

The azalea garden features approximately 20,000 azalea plants, including Kurume azaleas and Hirado azaleas. In 2026, the Kurume Azalea Garden will be open from April 11 to April 26, and the Hirado Azalea Garden from April 18 to May 10, with both open from 8:30 to 15:10. Peak bloom typically falls around the Golden Week holiday period.

In front of the main hall is a lotus garden with 250 pots of lotus flowers in bloom. The garden is typically open from late June to early August, offering a scene that feels like a glimpse of paradise.

In July, when the lotus flowers are at their peak, the temple also hosts a "Lotus Wine Drinking Party" (Hasu-zake wo Tanoshimu Kai), where visitors pour sake into lotus leaves and drink it through the stem. Believed to be beneficial for health and longevity, it's a truly unique experience worth trying.

Admission to the azalea garden, weeping plum garden, and lotus garden is 1,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for children.
Please note that the grounds include steep slopes and stairs, so allow plenty of time for your visit.

Things to do Near Mimurotoji Temple

Here are a few places you should consider checking out if you're planning on visiting Mimurotoji Temple:

Tale of Genji Museum
The Tale of Genji Museum, which opened in 1998, introduces the world of The Tale of Genji through various models and videos. The museum hosts regular lectures and features a collection of more than 3,000 books for visitors to enjoy. Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Mimurotoji Temple.

Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (last entry 4:30 pm)
Admission Fee: Adults 500 yen, Children 250 yen. ※Discounts available for groups of 30 or more.

Daikichiyama Observation Deck
An observation deck offering scenic views of the natural landscape of Uji, Kyoto.

From the Tale of Genji Museum, it's about a 2-minute walk to the base of the mountain. From there, it's an approximately 15-minute climb to the observatory along a gently winding path that is manageable for most visitors.

Hours: Open 24 hours
Admission Fee: Free

Byodoin Temple
Byodoin Temple is one of the most famous temples in Japan. Built during the Heian period, it boasts a long history and stunning architecture. The Phoenix Hall is particularly photogenic and not to be missed. Visitors can explore the temple murals, stroll through the garden, and enjoy a cup of tea at the temple teahouse. Approximately 20 minutes on foot from Mimurotoji Temple.

Hours: Garden: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm (last entry 5:15 pm), Phoenix Hall: 9:30 am – 4:10 pm (max 50 entrants per 20-min slot), Temple Museum: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (last entry 4:45 pm), Museum Shop: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Tea Room "Sabo Toka": 10:00 am – 4:30 pm (last order 4:00 pm).
Admission Fee: Byodoin Temple Garden and Museum: Adults 600 yen, Junior high and high school students 400 yen, Elementary school students 300 yen. ※Discounts available for groups of 25 or more.

The Tale of Genji Museum and Daikichiyama Observation Deck are located between Mimurotoji Temple and Byodoin Temple, so we recommend the following route:

Mimurotoji Temple → Tale of Genji Museum → Daikichiyama Observation Deck → Byodoin Temple

You could also start at Byodoin Temple and work your way towards Mimurotoji Temple.

A Brief Introduction to Uji, Kyoto

Located south of Kyoto, Uji is a city in Japan known for its delicious tea and its ties to The Tale of Genji. The city is home to a number of historic attractions, including Byodoin Temple, an architectural masterpiece, and Ujigami Shrine, believed to be the oldest surviving Shinto shrine in Japan. Both are registered UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
If you're looking to explore Japan's ancient culture, history, and traditions, Uji is well worth a visit and is highly recommended as a destination on any Japan travel itinerary.

What Should You Know Before Visiting Mimurotoji Temple in 2026? Summary

We've introduced everything you need to know about the hydrangea garden at Mimurotoji Temple, an ancient temple in Uji, Kyoto. Beyond its fame as a flower temple, Mimurotoji is also cherished as a power spot. As you climb the stone steps, the smiling guardian rabbit welcomes you — stroke its large ears to receive its blessing of good fortune.

In addition to the hydrangea garden, Mimurotoji Temple also offers a beautiful weeping plum garden and azalea garden. Visiting during each flower's respective season is sure to reveal a whole new side of this remarkable temple. The 2026 hydrangea garden light-up is scheduled for Saturdays and Sundays only, from June 13 to June 28. Check the official website and social media for the latest bloom updates, and plan your visit to catch the hydrangeas at their most magnificent.

[TripAdvisor] Mimurotoji Temple