Hasedera Temple

One thing I will really miss about Japan is how appreciative so many people are about the beauty of nature and all the beautiful things that bloom and grow throughout the seasons. From the changing colors of leaves in autumn to cherry blossom festivals in April, there always seems to be a good reason to celebrate and enjoy creation.

June is a time for iris (ayame) and hydrangea (ajisai). This weekend we went to Hasedera Temple and saw thousands of hydrangea in full bloom. You wouldn't believe how many different varieties they had. The temple is one of the best known places to see the lovely bundles of pink, blue and purple flowers and we were not disappointed!