In early summer, two of Japan’s most iconic flowers—irises and hydrangeas—come into full bloom. At Yakushiike Park in Machida, you can enjoy both in one beautifully landscaped location during the Iris and Hydrangea Festival, held annually from late May to late June.
The main festival area features over 2,000 irises spanning 175 varieties, including Edo, Higo, and Ise types. These elegant blooms line the park’s iris fields in shades of purple, white, and blue, creating a picturesque early summer scene. Adding to the atmosphere, flower attendants in traditional dress tend to the irises a few times a week during the peak season.
Visitors can also take part in informal guided tours led by Machida’s local tourism volunteers, who share insights into the history and cultivation of these beloved flowers.
As the season progresses, hydrangeas take center stage. Around 1,000 plants in 42 varieties bloom near the iris fields and throughout the hydrangea garden. Their ever-changing colors, from soft pinks to rich blues, make each visit unique. A separate area at nearby Ebine-en Garden adds another 5,000 hydrangeas in a peaceful setting just a short walk away.
