The temple is officially nicknamed the 'Ajisai-dera' due to its intensive cultivation of hydrangeas.
The central Yakushi Nyorai statue was carved during the Kamakura period.
The temple belongs to the Tendai sect of Buddhism, which emphasizes the Lotus Sutra.
The grounds were specifically landscaped to highlight the transition of colors in hydrangea blooms during the rainy season.
It is one of the few historical religious sites remaining in the densely developed Tama Ward.
Myōraku-ji is a Tendai-sect Buddhist temple in Kawasaki, widely recognized as the 'Ajisai-dera' or Hydrangea Temple. The temple grounds house approximately 1,000 hydrangea bushes of nearly 20 different varieties that bloom annually in early summer. It is an ancient site with origins dating back to the late Heian period. The main hall, or Hon-dō, contains a wooden statue of the Yakushi Nyorai, which is designated as a cultural asset by the city of Kawasaki. The temple layout utilizes the natural slope of the Nagao area, providing elevated views over the surrounding residential neighborhood. The site is actively maintained by the local community and the temple administration as a seasonal botanical destination. Visitors follow stone paths that wind through the garden areas surrounding the main temple buildings.
The stone path leading up the slope during the hydrangea season, framed by the dense clusters of blue and purple flowers.
Visit during the early morning on a weekday to avoid crowds, especially during the peak hydrangea blooming season in June.
Wear sturdy walking shoes, as the temple grounds feature stone stairs and slopes.
Respect that this is an active religious site; remain quiet and refrain from straying off marked paths.
Do not attempt to pick the hydrangeas or wander into restricted private priest quarters.
The gardens are most significant during June; access may be limited during inclement weather due to slippery stone paths.
Remove shoes when entering the main hall, maintain a quiet volume, and do not touch the temple statues or historical wood carvings.
