【Kyoto: Mimuroto-ji Temple】Enjoy the Stunning Hydrangeas & A Delicious Ramen at “Ramen Shokudo Mengokoro”

Hello! Today, I’d like to share my experience visiting Mimuroto-ji Temple in Uji, Kyoto, where I enjoyed the breathtaking hydrangea garden. After exploring the temple, I stopped by the popular local ramen shop, “Ramen Shokudo Mengokoro,” for a comforting bowl of ramen. Let’s dive into the details!

What is Mimuroto-ji Temple?

Mimuroto-ji Temple, located in Uji City, Kyoto, is an ancient Buddhist temple founded during the Nara period (710-794). It is the 10th temple in the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, a famous pilgrimage route in Japan.

However, Mimuroto-ji is most famous as “The Temple of Flowers,” featuring seasonal blooms throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy azaleas in spring, hydrangeas in early summer, lotus flowers in midsummer, and colorful autumn leaves.

Hydrangea Garden: A Must-See in June

Over 20,000 Hydrangeas in Full Bloom

Every June, the hydrangea garden inside the temple grounds is opened to the public. With over 50 varieties and approximately 20,000 hydrangeas, the scenery is absolutely mesmerizing.

Among them, keep an eye out for the heart-shaped hydrangeas! It is said that finding one brings good luck in love—a fun little challenge while you explore the garden.

Enchanting Night Illuminations

During the hydrangea season, Mimuroto-ji also holds nighttime illuminations. The beautifully lit hydrangeas create a dreamy and romantic atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for photography lovers.

How to Get to Mimuroto-ji Temple

📍 Address: 21 Todo Shigatani, Uji City, Kyoto, Japan
🚃 Nearest Station: 15-minute walk from Mimurodo Station (Keihan Line)
🚌 Bus: Get off at “Mimuroto-ji” bus stop, then walk a few minutes
🚗 Parking: Available (but can get crowded during peak seasons)

A Perfect End to the Day: Ramen at “Ramen Shokudo Mengokoro”

After admiring the stunning hydrangeas, I was craving a delicious bowl of ramen. I decided to visit “Ramen Shokudo Mengokoro,” a well-known local ramen shop.

My Ramen Experience

I ordered the “Special Ramen,” which features a rich yet light soy sauce-based broth. The flavors were well-balanced, and the broth was incredibly smooth. The chashu (braised pork) was tender and flavorful, pairing perfectly with the thin noodles. It was a simple yet deeply satisfying bowl of ramen—one that I’d love to have again!

Ramen Shokudo Mengokoro: Basic Information

食べログ

ラーメン食堂 麺ごころ (三室戸/ラーメン) ★★★☆☆3.12 ■予算(昼):￥1,000～￥1,999

Conclusion

Visiting Mimuroto-ji Temple in June was an unforgettable experience. The hydrangea garden was breathtaking, and the heart-shaped hydrangeas added a touch of charm to the visit. Afterward, enjoying a bowl of ramen at “Ramen Shokudo Mengokoro” was the perfect way to end the day.

If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto in early summer, I highly recommend combining a visit to Mimuroto-ji Temple and a stop at “Ramen Shokudo Mengokoro” for a fantastic experience!