Rainy season's "bridesmaid" flower: irises

I'm a huge fan of flowers, and that has really been emphasized during my years here. The seasonality of different blooms means there's something to look forward to every month, and as rainy season approaches I have to give some credit to irises. I feel like they're often the bridesmaid flowers, forgotten a little in the midst of hydrangea season, but I think they're so beautiful and elegant to look at.

Depending on where you live, you might be lucky enough to see them just blooming on the side of the road -- at least, that happens quite a bit out here in the countryside. There are quite a few good spots to enjoy them in greater numbers here in Niigata, though, such as Ijimino Park. Admission to the park is usually free, but they do charge 100 yen for admission when the iris festival takes place. I think that's super reasonable, though, especially if I compare it to what flower festival admission fees are like in my home country!

Do you have any good spots for irises in your local area? Of the two main rainy season flowers, do you prefer hydrangeas or irises more?