Discovering Japan’s Stunning Azaleas: 10 Places to visit

Japan’s springtime showcases more than cherry blossoms. Following this iconic bloom, you will soon find another flower spectacle, painting landscapes with vibrant hues of pink, red, and white—the alluring azalea. From traditional gardens to tranquil parks, Japan has numerous destinations to experience the charm of these beautiful flowers. Let’s have a look at some of the country’s most remarkable azalea gardens.

Meiji Jingu Gyoen: Tokyo’s Azalea Oasis

Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, Meiji Jingu Gyoen offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Throughout middle to late April, the garden offers an azalea area, letting you wander under a tunnel of hundreds of years old shrubs in full bloom.

Rikugien Garden: Tokyo’s April Gem

For those seeking tranquility amidst urban life, Rikugien Garden is a must-visit destination. In late April, the garden will grant you with a paradise of blooming azaleas covering a whole hill. Explore the rest of the grounds to discover hidden spots where azaleas frame tranquil, long gone ponds, offering moments of peace.

In May, the Satsuki azalea will spot the whole area around the pond with vibrant pink.

That must-see Azalea destination in Tokyo

Not located in a garden but a highly recommended place for seeing azaleas in late April is the Nezu Shrine. A complete hill is covered in azaleas and you are free to walk among them. At the bottom of the hill, many red torii gates waiting for your Kyoto Inari Shrine-like pictures.

*for all above mentioned destinations you will need to pay an entrance fee.

Tokyo Imperial Palace: May Splendor

With the arrival of May, the Tokyo Imperial Palace Ninomaru Garden bursts into life with vibrant pink azalea flowers, contrasting the violet irises in a beautiful way. Take a leisurely stroll around the palace perimeter to admire the low hedges of azalea bushes in full bloom against the backdrop of evergreen high trees.

Shiofune Kannon-ji temple in the outskirts of Tokyo

Basically still Tokyo but around an hour from the city center lies this temple in a flood of azalea bushes. In late April all the hills turn pink, white, and red. With the traditional temple architecture within the flowers, it is a stunning place to visit.

Shisendo: Kyoto’s Azalea Sanctuary

Venture to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, and uncover the serene beauty of Shisendo temple. In May, the backdrop of the dry landscape garden turns all pink. If you stroll around the temple grounds in late April, you will find other azalea shrubs in bloom. Take a moment to admire the unique temple architecture amidst this sea of azaleas, blending natural and man-made beauty.

Kōmyō-in: Floating above pink clouds

A famous dry landscape garden in Kyoto designed by Shigemori Mirei. He used the azaleas which already covered the hill in the background in his own design, creating ōkarikomi that is looking like clouds. You will see them in flower in May.

Another garden by Shigemori Mirei with beautiful azaleas flowering in May is the Matsunoo Taisha close to Arashiyama.

Special Openings in Kyoto

Some temples usually closed to the public have special openings in April and May. This gives you the unique chance to admire their wonderful all-red azalea bushes.

Look out for the Manshuin Monzeki or the Shodeneigen-in in Kennin-ji temple.

Other Azalea Destinations Across Japan

Beyond the highlighted gardens, Japan offers numerous other destinations to experience the charm of azaleas.

In Saitama, Godaison Park provides a tranquil sanctuary adorned with blooming azaleas, offering a peaceful escape.
In Fukushima, the Ogawara Azalea Garden offers a serene setting surrounded by azalea-draped landscapes, ideal for moments of reflection and relaxation.

Exploring notable Azalea varieties of Japan

Azaleas, known for their vibrant blooms and diverse species, captivate with their stunning displays in gardens worldwide. Let’s explore the characteristics of three notable varieties: Rhododendron indicum, Rhododendron dilatatum, and Rhododendron pulchrum cv. Oomurasaki.

Rhododendron indicum
Names: Satsuki Azalea, 皐月, サツキツツジ
Flowering Time: Spring to early summer (May in Tokyo)
Height: 1-3 meters (3-10 feet)
USDA Hardiness Zone: 7-9

Rhododendron indicum, commonly referred to as Satsuki Azalea, is renowned for its profusion of blossoms that adorn gardens in spring to early summer. Originating from East Asia, particularly Japan, this evergreen shrub flourishes in acidic, well-drained soil under partial shade. Its compact form makes it ideal for border plantings or container gardening, adding bursts of color to landscapes.

Rhododendron dilatatum
Names: Mitsuba Azalea, ミツバツツジ
Flowering Time: Late spring (April – May)
Height: 1-2 meters (3-6 feet)
USDA Hardiness Zone: 6-9

Rhododendron dilatatum, also known as Mitsuba Azalea, enchants with its graceful blooms in late spring. Native to Japan and Korea, this deciduous shrub prefers acidic soil with good moisture retention and partial shade. With a moderate height ranging from 1 to 2 meters, it lends itself well to mixed borders or as a focal point in smaller gardens, offering a touch of elegance to outdoor spaces.

Rhododendron pulchrum cv. Oomurasaki Names: Oomurasaki Azalea, オオムラサキツツジ
Flowering Time: Mid to late spring (April – May)
Height: 1-2 meters (3-6 feet)
USDA Hardiness Zone: 6-9

From bustling Tokyo streets to ancient Kyoto temples, Japan’s azalea gardens provide a glimpse into the country’s rich natural heritage. Whether seeking tranquility or vibrant bursts of color, these gardens offer the perfect backdrop to experience the charm of Japan’s beloved azaleas. So, pack your bags and embark on a botanical journey through Japan’s azalea wonderland.

View our map for more Azalea spots in Japan.

Don’t miss the opportunity to delve deeper into the beauty and significance of Azaleas in Japanese gardens. Elevate your experience with our exclusive ebooks offering insights into the captivating histories and cultural significance of Rikugien and the Tokyo Imperial Palace, and join us on our immersive garden tours for an unforgettable botanical adventure.

This article was first published on Patreon

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