Travel app 'NEWT,' operated by Reiwa Travel, has announced its 'Top 30 Hydrangea Spots in Japan' ranking, evaluating 1,741 municipalities across the country. The survey, conducted by the NEWT Research Department, quantified spots based on five evaluation criteria for the early summer of 2026.
There is a growing demand for 'off-peak' travel—avoiding peak seasons to find comfort away from the crowds. This has put a new spotlight on the charm of the 'rainy season,' a time when many usually stay indoors. Hydrangeas gleaming with raindrops and the serene, sound-filled space of a rainy day offer a new key to attractive off-season travel.
The ranking evaluation criteria (20 points each, 100 points total): 1. Strength of hydrangea experience 2. Unique local charm 3. Suitability for rainy season travel 4. Ease of movement/Low congestion 5. Accessibility and cost-performance
[Top Rankings] 1st: Shimoda City, Shizuoka Prefecture (98 points) Features about 150,000 hydrangea plants (3 million blossoms), seaside views, hot springs, and local 'Kinmedai' snapper cuisine.
2nd: Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture (96 points) A cultural city where temple architecture harmonizes with hydrangeas. Excellent suitability for rainy days with abundant indoor facilities.
3rd: Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture (94 points) Home to Mimuroto-ji Temple; offers elegant stays fused with tea culture, such as matcha sweets.
4th: Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture (92 points) Hondo-ji Temple is famous for its 50,000 hydrangeas. Highly rated for its accessibility from the city center.
5th: Gamagori City, Aichi Prefecture (90 points) Features a scenic location overlooking Mikawa Bay and nighttime illuminations.
6th: Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture (89 points) Features the vast 'Hakusan-zakura Hydrangea Garden' at Yoshimine-dera Temple, offering breathtaking views utilizing terrain elevation.
7th: Oga City, Akita Prefecture (88 points) Famous for the 'world of blue' at Unsho-ji Temple, which has gained huge popularity on social media.
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: Survey