Daian-Zenji Temple in Fukui Prefecture is a spring and summer wonderland of flowers. Along with its prestigious history relating to the Matsudaira Clan, visitors can expect irises and hydrangeas blossoming and coloring the grounds in June. The temple grounds are painted with blues and purples of these flowers welcoming summer.
Held annually in early June, the irises of Daian-Zenji Temple are famous for being some of the most beautiful. Guests flock to look at the delicate flowers and get a taste of traditional music in this calming environment. Further along the paths, you can find hydrangea bushes blooming with full heads of the pink, blue, and purple flowers.
Of course, irises and hydrangeas aren’t all that the temple has to offer visitors. Along with many other flowers, such as roses and peonies, you’ll find this relaxing power spot will soothe your soul and perhaps bring a refreshing coolness to your spirit just before the rainy summer season gets to Japan.
Event report
The other day I was translating one of Japan Travel's articles about irises at Meiji Shrine, Tokyo, which had lots of beautiful photos of irises and all of a sudden I wanted to go see them with my own eyes no matter what.
When I inquired where I should go in Fukui some of my friends recommended that I go to Daian-zenji Temple, which is a 30-minute drive from the center of Fukui city. When I got there, a walking path decorated with many beautiful hydrangeas on both sides welcomed me, then the irises in full bloom in the garden.
There was soothing music in the air, coming from a Chinese erhu (spike fiddle) played by a musician on the small stage in the garden. Green forest, fresh air, pleasant music and beautiful flowers. Everything was perfect at Daian-zenji Temple on that day in June!
