Hakkeijima Sea Paradise in Yokohama will be awash in blues, pinks and purples during its annual Hydrangea Festival, which boasts 20,000 hydrangeas in full bloom from the beginning of June. Watch the colourful spectacle at eight different spots on the artificial island, including the seaside garden and the forest paths lined with vibrant flowers.
You can also enjoy hydrangea-shaped manju (steamed sweet buns) and green tea on June 11 and 12 for ¥300, join a hydrangea dyeing workshop on June 15 (1pm-3pm) from ¥2,000 (reservations essential) or learn flower arrangement on June 20 and 22 (¥500), using hydrangeas and other plants from the island (reservations essential). Spending a day here makes for the perfect start to summer.
Workshop reservations can be made via phone and email: 045 788 9778/ info@hakkeijima-partnership.jp.
The island is open after dark, but make sure to visit during daytime as the hydrangea area is not lit up.