Azalea Festival, Nezu Shrine

When 3,000 azalea bushes start to compete

Nicole Bauer Jan 10, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>Close-up of the torii path surrounded by blooming azaleas</p>

<p>The garden was created alongside and on a hill and there are several walking paths leading through, so you've always got a different view of the garden.</p>

<p>This picture was taken from the opposite side. You decide which view you like best!</p>

<p>The large gate before the main shrine building right after crossing the pond / stream. Although the pink azaleas in the foreground don't really match the colors of the gate, I think the view has got something.</p>

<p>Azalea bushes in full bloom; you've got quite a variety of different colors here.</p>

<p>Pink azalea close-up—such a lovely flower!</p>

Nezu Shrine in Bunkyo-ku is always worth a visit, thanks to its wonderful historical buildings nestled down in the hilly landscape, the torii path, as well as the beautiful and detailed decorations of the main hall. However, the highlight of the year is the Tsutsuji Matsuri, or Azalea Festival, which takes place every year from around mid-April until the beginning of May, when the azalea bushes start to bloom. I definitely recommend to try and go during the week; it's much more charming without the weekend crowds... Enjoy!

More info

Find out more about Nezu Shrine.

Nicole Bauer @nicole.bauer

Travelling abroad to discover new places, getting to know different cultures and learning foreign languages has always been my passion. I was born and raised in Germany; however, for a few years now I've been very lucky to be able to spend my life abroad. I lived for some time in England and Ital...