Amida-ji

It is an over 400-year-old temple in Hakone. Built to enshrine an ancient imperial family, it is commonly known as Ajisai-dera (Hydrangea Temple), as hydrangeas bloom in abundance during June and July. To reach the temple which is located in the mountain recesses, you'll have to pass through a forest, which will refresh you completely on a clear, sunny day.

(Source: ケイセイ / PIXTA(ピクスタ) )

Hydrangea

There are 80 kinds and about 4,000 hydrangeas planted in Amida-ji. The view of hydrangea flowers with the historical temple is extraordinarily beautiful. It's on the mountain, yet, many people come all the way to see the flowers in June and July.

(Source: yukoyuki / PIXTA(ピクスタ))

Otoko-zaka (man's slope) and Onna-zaka (woman's slope)

To reach Amida-ji, you need to walk for 30 minutes from Hakone-yumoto Station, or 15 minutes from Tonosawa Station. You have an option between a steep stone staircase called Otoko-zaka or a gentle slope called Onna-zaka. If you are confident in your physical strength, why not try Otoko-zaka that has the temple gate? When you climb up to the temple, you will feel refreshed.

(Source: トシコユルギ / PIXTA(ピクスタ) )

Sekibutsu (Buddhist stone statues)

Around Amida-ji, there are many stone Buddhist statues called Sekibutsu that are made of carved stone. You can pray to these statues for your ancestors to rest in peace. If you see any on the way, stop for a bit and put your hands together to pray.