From the end of May until the end of June, Hakone Gora Park will be bursting with colorful blooms in honor of its 111th anniversary, and to mark the occasion, the park has created a stunning hydrangea photo spot featuring exactly 111 blossoms along the stone stairs between Hakuundo Tea Garden and the central fountain pond. Varieties like the delicate pink double-flowered Koigokoro and the star-shaped Hoshigumi offer a vibrant backdrop perfect for rainy season photo memories.
In front of the tea garden, visitors can enjoy a hanachozu (flower water basin) filled with floating hydrangeas, adding a splash of color to the early summer atmosphere. By late June, the American variety Annabelle will be in full bloom along the aptly named “Annabelle Road,” and the shaded pathway is ideal for a peaceful stroll.
The celebration continues with seasonal sweets at Isshikido Sarō, the park’s sandwich café. During the event period, visitors can indulge in a hydrangea-themed afternoon tea set (from 2,970 JPY) featuring treats like jelly, berry ice cream, and flower-shaped cheesecake. Additionally, a unique hydrangea iced tea (880 JPY) made with butterfly pea and elderflower changes color when stirred.
For those seeking a hands-on experience, Hakone Craft House is offering limited-time glass bead-making workshops inspired by the hydrangea’s soft blues and purples. The experience allows guests to craft accessories or keychains for a personalized souvenir.
More details are available at https://www.hakonenavi.jp/gorapark/.
Getting there
Hakone Gora Park is located just a minute on foot from Koen Kami Station, which is served by the Hakone Tozan Cable Car line.
Kim Bergström @kim.b
Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here. 🍵🌼🌸
