The temple is nicknamed Ajisai-dera (Hydrangea Temple) for its approximately 2,500 'Hime Ajisai' hydrangea bushes that turn blue as the soil acidity changes.
The circular window in the Main Hall is designed to represent enlightenment and the universe through the 'Window of Enlightenment'.
The temple name, Meigetsu-in, translates to 'Bright Moon Temple', referencing a poem about the moonlight over the mountains.
The grave of Hojo Tokiyori is located within the temple grounds inside a small stone cave known as a 'yagura'.
The inner garden is opened to the public specifically during the peak of the hydrangea season in June and the autumn foliage season in late November.
Meigetsu-in is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kamakura, famously known as the 'Hydrangea Temple' due to the thousands of bushes that bloom on its grounds. The temple was established in 1383 by Uesugi Norikata as part of the larger Zenko-ji complex, which no longer exists. Its most distinct architectural feature is a circular 'satori' window in the Main Hall that frames the rear garden. The inner garden behind the Main Hall is preserved in its natural, unmanicured state and remains restricted to the public for most of the year. The temple houses a stone statue of a rabbit, reflecting the legend surrounding the temple's name, 'Bright Moon Temple'. Its landscaping utilizes the 'shakkei' technique, incorporating the surrounding forest into the garden design. The grounds contain the grave of Hojo Tokiyori, the fifth regent of the Kamakura Shogunate. Visitors primarily navigate the temple via a narrow, stone-paved path that winds through the steep hillside terrain.
The view looking through the circular 'satori' window into the inner garden.
Arrive as early as possible in the morning to beat the heavy crowds, especially during the June blooming season.
Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear as the temple grounds feature steep, uneven stone steps.
Carry small change for the temple entrance fee, as electronic payment methods are often not accepted.
Visiting on weekends in June, when the temple can become significantly overcrowded to the point of long queues.
The inner garden is closed to the public except during June and late November.
Maintain a quiet volume; do not step off designated paths; strictly refrain from photographing the interior of the Main Hall where indicated.
