Update-date: May 02 2024
One of Japan's best aspects is the opportunity to enjoy different flowers throughout the seasons, and hydrangeas are the stars of the rainy season. This article will present how to make the most of Japan's rainy season by enjoying hydrangea viewing while introducing restaurants perfectly fit for a pause.
What Kind of Plant Is the Hydrangea?
Hydrangeas bloom in shades of blue, purple, and pink from May to July. In Japan, they blossom amidst the rainy season, known as tsuyu, flourishing gracefully even under heavy rainfall. Thanks to their gracious appearance with raindrops on their petals, they have been a beloved flower since ancient times.
Though now famous worldwide, hydrangeas are actually native to Japan. It was the Europeans who first appreciated their beauty. They were bred selectively and cultivated as 'Roses of the East' in various regions, eventually evolving into the dense, round hydrangea blooms everyone knows today, before being reintroduced to Japan.
Though now famous worldwide, hydrangeas are actually native to Japan. It was the Europeans who first appreciated their beauty. They were bred selectively and cultivated as 'Roses of the East' in various regions, eventually evolving into the dense, round hydrangea blooms everyone knows today, before being reintroduced to Japan.
The hydrangea native to Japan is called gaku ajisai. It is characterized by small, dotted flowers clustered in the center, surrounded by larger blooms resembling a picture frame. While it exudes a simple charm compared to the usual hydrangeas, it has recently gained popularity as a gift item.
In Japan, the arrival of summer follows the end of the rainy season. While hydrangeas thrive in rainy weather, they also serve as a reminder that summer is just around the corner.
In Japan, the arrival of summer follows the end of the rainy season. While hydrangeas thrive in rainy weather, they also serve as a reminder that summer is just around the corner.
Traveling to Japan During the Rainy Season
As mentioned, when hydrangeas bloom, Japan enters its rainy season, called tsuyu. It typically lasts from early May to late June in places like Okinawa and from early June to mid-July in Kyushu and Honshu.
During this period, there's continuous cloudiness, rain, and humidity. Knowing what to pack is essential for those traveling to Japan during this time. While sunny days are muggy, rainy days can feel chilly, so it would be handy to have a lightweight jacket that is easy to put on or take off.
Given the irregular nature of rain, carrying a compact umbrella is also advisable. Alternatively, a raincoat offers a hands-free option. It's also wise to have a plastic bag, pouch, or towel handy for storing wet gear. Finally, a good pair of waterproof shoes or rain boots guarantees comfort while exploring, even during downpours.
Even though it might feel a bit cumbersome, the fusion of rain and hydrangeas creates a captivating scene. So, don't stress, and get ready to embrace the experience!
During this period, there's continuous cloudiness, rain, and humidity. Knowing what to pack is essential for those traveling to Japan during this time. While sunny days are muggy, rainy days can feel chilly, so it would be handy to have a lightweight jacket that is easy to put on or take off.
Given the irregular nature of rain, carrying a compact umbrella is also advisable. Alternatively, a raincoat offers a hands-free option. It's also wise to have a plastic bag, pouch, or towel handy for storing wet gear. Finally, a good pair of waterproof shoes or rain boots guarantees comfort while exploring, even during downpours.
Even though it might feel a bit cumbersome, the fusion of rain and hydrangeas creates a captivating scene. So, don't stress, and get ready to embrace the experience!
Hydrangeas can be admired all over Japan, from Hokkaido to Okinawa. Those blooming in temples like Meigetusin in Kamakura, Yanagidani Kannon in Kyoto, and Mimurotoji Temple exhibit a particularly charming atmosphere when it's raining, blending perfectly with the solemn buildings.
There are also many dynamic hydrangea scenes! Satte Gongendo Tsutsumi Park in Saitama, famous for its spring cherry blossoms, features the elegant white Annabelle variety. The expanse of hydrangeas evokes the imagery of a snowy landscape, offering a unique and enchanting beauty distinct from the typical blue and purple hydrangeas. It's a spot you would want to visit during breaks in the rainy season.
The Ideal Hydrangea Spot: Kobe’s Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden
While hydrangeas can be enjoyed all over Japan, a spot worth visiting is the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden in Kobe. Known for cultivating about 1,500 species of ornamental plants in conditions close to their natural habitats, this garden boasts a distinctively vivid blue hydrangea variety dubbed Rokko Blue. Interestingly, it is the acidic soil of Rokko Mountain that enhances this vibrant blue hue.
Situated near the summit of Mount Rokko at an altitude of 865 meters, this botanical garden offers the bonus of a hiking experience. After a refreshing hike, visitors can take a break at the mountain hut-style cafe. Before returning home, consider visiting the souvenir shop for items inspired by flowers and plants to commemorate the day.
Situated near the summit of Mount Rokko at an altitude of 865 meters, this botanical garden offers the bonus of a hiking experience. After a refreshing hike, visitors can take a break at the mountain hut-style cafe. Before returning home, consider visiting the souvenir shop for items inspired by flowers and plants to commemorate the day.
Here, take the chance to see the "Shichidanka," a once legendary mountain hydrangea characterized by its double-layered blossoms resembling stars.
In addition to Rokko Blue and Shichidanka, the hydrangea garden presents many other varieties, which are preferable to see before the rainy season terminates. Luckily, there is time until the end of July!
In addition to Rokko Blue and Shichidanka, the hydrangea garden presents many other varieties, which are preferable to see before the rainy season terminates. Luckily, there is time until the end of July!
When in Kobe, Kobe Beef Is a Must! Two Recommended Restaurants
If you're visiting Kobe, check on the iconic Kobe beef, a delicacy revered around the globe. Immerse yourself in the culinary delight of watching it being cooked in front of you, creating a memorable dining experience.
Yakiniku Shoten Urashimaya Kobe-Motomachi Branch (Motomachi)
If you want to casually enjoy Kobe beef, head to te Yakiniku Shoten Urashimaya Kobe-Motomachi Branch. They offer a variety of cuts, from the classic karubi (short rib) to the rare harami (skirt steak). Besides Kobe beef, you can also enjoy Yamagata beef here. Yamagata beef, produced in the Tohoku region, is another representative brand of Japanese beef. So, you can enjoy two types of Japanese beef without traveling to their respective regions!
Recommended is the course [Kobe Beef & Yamagata Beef with Hot Pot Stew and All-You-Can-Drink Lemon Sour](6,800 JPY). Various cuts of grilled meat and warm pot dishes will undoubtedly satisfy each appetite. Plus, it's fun to pour your own lemon sours from the servers at each table. But be careful not to drink too much just because it's all-you-can-drink!
Recommended is the course [Kobe Beef & Yamagata Beef with Hot Pot Stew and All-You-Can-Drink Lemon Sour](6,800 JPY). Various cuts of grilled meat and warm pot dishes will undoubtedly satisfy each appetite. Plus, it's fun to pour your own lemon sours from the servers at each table. But be careful not to drink too much just because it's all-you-can-drink!
Casual and stylish, the restaurant's interior is carefully designed to favor ventilation. So, enjoy your beef without worrying about your clothes absorbing any odor. Dress up a bit and head out for some Japanese beef!
Yakiniku Shoten Urashimaya Kobe-Motomachi Branch
Open: [Monday, Wednesday-Sunday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Lunch 12:00 pm - 2:30 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / Dinner 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm)
Closed: Tuesday
Average price: [Dinner] 4,500 JPY / [Lunch] 1,600 JPY
Access: About 1-minute south from the west exit of JR Motomachi Station. Located on the basement floor of a building with Nakau on the first floor.
Address: B1F, Nishiki Bldg., 2-10-1, Motomachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Hyogo Map
More Details Reservation
Closed: Tuesday
Average price: [Dinner] 4,500 JPY / [Lunch] 1,600 JPY
Access: About 1-minute south from the west exit of JR Motomachi Station. Located on the basement floor of a building with Nakau on the first floor.
Address: B1F, Nishiki Bldg., 2-10-1, Motomachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Hyogo Map
More Details Reservation
Kobe Beef Yamato (Sannomiya)
Kobe Beef Yamato offers a dynamic performance as your meal is prepared right before you on a hot plate.
Each piece of Kobe beef sirloin and filet is carefully selected. If you prefer the sweetness and tenderness of marbled meat, go for the sirloin. For a lighter taste, opt for the filet with less fat. Both have the rich flavor of Japan's top-grade beef and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Moreover, their seafood dishes, like lobster and abalone, freshly taken from the tank, are exceptional! If you want to try both meat and fish, go for the [Specially Selected Kobe Beef C Course] (18,480 JPY). It includes salad, seasonal grilled vegetables, a homemade beef stew simmered for 24 hours, and 11 other items. Pair it with a bottle from their extensive wine selection for a delightful wine and teppanyaki (cooking method where ingredients are grilled on iron griddles) experience.
Each piece of Kobe beef sirloin and filet is carefully selected. If you prefer the sweetness and tenderness of marbled meat, go for the sirloin. For a lighter taste, opt for the filet with less fat. Both have the rich flavor of Japan's top-grade beef and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Moreover, their seafood dishes, like lobster and abalone, freshly taken from the tank, are exceptional! If you want to try both meat and fish, go for the [Specially Selected Kobe Beef C Course] (18,480 JPY). It includes salad, seasonal grilled vegetables, a homemade beef stew simmered for 24 hours, and 11 other items. Pair it with a bottle from their extensive wine selection for a delightful wine and teppanyaki (cooking method where ingredients are grilled on iron griddles) experience.
[Kobe Beef Yamato]'s modern and elegant interior, with white walls, ceilings, and wooden accents, offers a luxurious dining experience. In addition to the seats where you can enjoy watching your ingredients cooked in front of you, you can also enjoy top-notch hospitality in their spacious dining area.
Kobe Beef Yamato
Open: [Monday-Thursday, Sunday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 9:30 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm) / Lunch 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:30 pm) [Friday, Saturday] Dinner 5:00 pm - 00:00 am (L.O 11:30 pm)
Closed: Sunday
Average price: [Dinner] 7,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,500 JPY
Access: About 150m from Motomachi Station on the Hanshin Main Line, about 2 minute's walk
Address: 7F, Yasutaka Bldg., 3-3-5, Kitanagasadori, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Hyogo Map
More Details Reservation
Closed: Sunday
Average price: [Dinner] 7,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,500 JPY
Access: About 150m from Motomachi Station on the Hanshin Main Line, about 2 minute's walk
Address: 7F, Yasutaka Bldg., 3-3-5, Kitanagasadori, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Hyogo Map
More Details Reservation
Rainy seasons often discourage travelers, but there's a unique joy in making hydrangea viewing one of your travel goals. Pairing beautiful flowers with delicious Kobe beef is the perfect combo for a fulfilling journey!
Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.
