June and rainy season also means it’s the season for the grey month’s most iconic flower: ajisai, the Japanese hydrangea. To see the blue beauties in bloom right here in Tokyo, head for Hakusan Shrine and its popular Ajisai Matsuri, which features up to 3,000 flowers spread out over an area reaching from the shrine toward nearby Hakusan Park. A number of performances will also be taking place at the shrine including taiko drum performances, hula dancing and a jazz performance by a local school band.
The shrine itself is known for its power to heal dental ailments, so you may witness a traditional tooth-prayer ceremony or the like during the event period.