Chonenji

Hydrangea temple in Hanno City

Chonenji is known as a hydrangea temple. There are not nearly as many hydrangea at Chonenji as at the other hydrangea temples in Saitama (Nogoji, Kensenji etc), but it has the most beautiful hydrangea path. Dozens of mature unpruned hydrangea flank the walkway to the temple. Thus it is a very popular spot for Instagram photos. However, even outside the hydrangea season the temple is very picturesque. It is small and you wouldn't need a lot of time to enjoy the temple grounds, but if you are passing it might be worth a visit. The temple is on the scenic 299 route that links Hidaka to Chichibu. There are toilets and a vending machine at the temple. There is a large parking lot which is free.