Kibitsu Shrine in Okayama is worth a visit for several reasons, from its links to the popular Japanese folk tale Momotaro to the abundance of hydrangeas adorning the grounds in early summer. The latter is the cause for the Kibitsu Shrine Hydrangea Festival, a two-day event where visitors can enjoy approximately 1500 of the blooms in varying shades of blue, pink, and purple.
The event is free to attend, but there is also the option to savor some matcha and traditional sweets at a small additional fee. In past years this has been priced at 500 JPY, so bring some yen along if you would like to take part.
