This is paradise, the "blue" soil. The fantastic hydrangeas and Zen temples of the Oga Peninsula in Akita Prefecture

During the rainy season in Akita Prefecture, the humidity clings to your body, and you can feel a cool, comfortable sensation. Oga Peninsula, Akita Prefecture. Surrounded by the Sea of Japan on three sides, this lush peninsula is blessed with nature, including a caldera. It has nurtured a unique culture, including Namahage and hearty hunter cuisine, creating a unique atmosphere.

Hydrangeas welcome visitors to Oga's 400-year-old Zen temple.

We headed to Unshoji, a Soto Zen temple celebrating its 400th anniversary. The deputy chief priest, Konaka Shuun, fell in love with a single hydrangea blooming in the temple grounds about 20 years ago and began dividing it into smaller branches. There are now over 2,000 hydrangeas. When in full bloom, the entire area is dyed blue.

Someone once described the scenery as "paradise on blue earth." Once you pass through the four-legged gate, a fantastical view unfolds before you. A blue carpet spreads out, tracing the undulating terrain of the grounds, which slope gently toward the main hall in the Zen Buddhist style.

While walking, I got lost on a bamboo forest path. The cool sea breeze tickled my cheeks.

Colorful hydrangeas are floating in the water basin. There are some really cool touches here and there.

The original souvenirs are also attractive, including original hydrangea-themed goshuincho (stamp book) (4,500 yen, tax included) and goshuin (stamps) (500 yen), amulets with different designs (1,200 yen), and amulets with preserved hydrangea flowers sandwiched between them (1,200 yen).

I was enchanted by the beauty of the flowers that bloomed bravely after surviving the intense heat.

Here and there, the cute Jizo statues, made in a workshop in Miyagi Prefecture, welcome visitors with their gentle expressions. Furunaka takes care of the hydrangeas himself. On the day we visited early in the morning, he was carefully pruning the plants with scissors in hand.

"Last year (2023), Akita had the highest average temperature in the country in August, and due to the heat, the flowers are blooming poorly now. Maybe only about 60% of the usual amount."

The hydrangeas at Unshoji Temple are all, so to speak, siblings, having survived the once-in-a-century heatwave together. The beauty of the flowers blooming bravely is awe-inspiring. A scene that brings courage to visitors spreads across the port town of Oga under the rainy season skies.

Unshoji Temple

Other scenic spots worth visiting

"Eight-story observation deck"

This is a famous scenic spot on the Oga Peninsula, named after Prince Takamatsu when he visited. In addition to Ichinomegata to the east, Toga Bay and Ninomegata to the west, the magnificent scenery stretches out to the Shirakami Mountains and the Ou Mountains to the north. This is a hidden gem where you can feel the pleasant breeze from the sea. The sunset you can see from here is spectacular.

Hachimadodai Observatory

Cultural facilities you should also visit

"Namahage Museum"

"Any crying babies here?" This is a facility where you can learn about the nationally known legend of Oga Peninsula, Namahage. More than 150 Namahage masks that were actually used are on display, and there is also a movie screening and special exhibition corner. There is also a mechanism that allows you to transform into Namahage using an app.

Namahage Museum

Souvenir spots you should also visit

"Oga Ogare Roadside Shop"

The store has a wide selection of products like a large supermarket, with lots of freshly caught seafood, all at reasonable prices. They also offer a service where they will fillet the fish on the spot. They also have a wide variety of souvenirs, including local specialties, goods, and seasonings. They also accept local deliveries.

Roadside Station Oga Ogare

Related article

Introducing 7 stunning spots in Akita in the summer, including places to stop by

This time, we will feature the spectacular spots you should visit if you come to Akita in the summer. In addition, a local writer who knows Akita inside and out will introduce you to the sightseeing and gourmet spots you can stop by in the surrounding area. We will navigate you through a summer trip from north to south, enjoying the spectacular views and the whole of Akita Prefecture.

ontrip.jal.co.jp

Enjoy the open view of the Sea of Japan. A trip around Akita's nature - Oga, the center of the prefecture -

The Oga Peninsula, jutting out into the Sea of Japan, is a treasure trove of spectacular ocean views. From the top of the mountains you can enjoy an unobstructed panorama, and along the coast you can enjoy beautiful beaches and rocky landscapes bathed in the sunset. The pleasant sea breeze blowing through Oga and the open view of the Sea of Japan will free your mind.

ontrip.jal.co.jp