Meigetsuin (Hydrangea Temple) [Japan Heritage]

#FuriTabi The valley opposite Jochi-ji Temple in Yamanouchi is called Meigetsu-dani. Meigetsu-in Temple was established there as a sub-temple of Zenko-ji Temple, which is now abandoned. Famous as a hydrangea temple, the temple grounds are filled with thousands of hydrangeas, also known as Meigetsu-in Blue, and the temple is bustling with visitors during the season. The temple grounds include Meigetsu-in Yagura, said to be the largest tower in Kamakura. This tower is said to be the tomb of Uesugi Norikata, and there are reliefs of what are believed to be Shaka Nyorai and Taho Nyorai on the walls. The top of the base is also decorated with reliefs of what are believed to be the 16 Arhats, so it is also called Rakan-do (Rakan Cave).