Ajisai Festival at Tabo Tenmangu in Kunitachi: 1,000 Hydrangeas Bloom in Late June

During the rainy season, Tabo Tenmangu Shrine in Kunitachi becomes a quiet hydrangea haven beloved by local residents. Around 1,000 hydrangea plants in more than 30 varieties reach their peak from mid to late June, with the 20th–25th generally considered the best time to visit.

About Tabo Tenmangu Shrine

Founded reportedly in 903 CE, this ancient shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane and is one of the "Three Tenjin of Kanto." The grounds center on the clear, spring-fed Benten Pond, surrounded by historic shrine buildings and natural scenery. The atmosphere is understated and peaceful — perfect for a rainy-season walk.

The Hydrangea Garden

Lacecap, oak-leaf, and mountain hydrangeas bloom across the shrine grounds, reflecting beautifully in the Benten Pond. Sunny days bring vivid reflections on the water's surface; cloudy or post-rain mornings make the colors appear even richer. Admission is free year-round, including during peak hydrangea season.

Combining with a Daigaku-dori Walk

From JR Kunitachi Station, the popular route is a 30-minute walk along Daigaku-dori, a zelkova-lined boulevard, past Hitotsubashi University's main gate to the shrine. In June, the street forms a deep green canopy. The Kunitachi Station area has many soba restaurants and cafés, making it easy to pair the walk with a meal.

Getting There

The quickest access is from JR Nambu Line Yakawa Station — about a 9-minute walk. JR Kunitachi Station via Daigaku-dori is also a popular option at roughly 30 minutes on foot. Admission to the shrine grounds is free at all times.

Plan Your Visit This Rainy Season

Tabo Tenmangu offers a quiet, unhurried hydrangea experience that has long been cherished by local residents. This year, consider spending a rainy-season afternoon exploring the historic shrine grounds, admiring 1,000 hydrangeas, and taking in the calm of this Kunitachi neighborhood gem.