Japan in June: Hydrangea Season

Hasedera Temple: One of the most popular destinations to see hydrangeas in Japan in June. There are more than 2,500 hydrangea trees and flowers in this temple. Be prepared for a large crowd and numbered ticketing to enter the gardens.

Meigetsuin Temple: Also known as "Hydrangea Temple" (Ajisaidera), Meigetsu-in is another popular spot to see hydrangeas. They even have a path named "Meigetsu-in Blue" that looks like you're riding a wave of hydrangeas.

Hamarikyu Gardens: With traditional gardens and surrounding skyscrapers, Hamarikyu Gardens is a unique place that lets you enjoy the contrast of the old and new. There is a tea house on an island in the middle of the lake where you can sit and enjoy the view.

Sanzen-in Temple: Another well known spot for hydrangeas is Sanzen-in Temple in Kyoto. There are over 1,000 varieties of hydrangeas that bloom from mid-June. See if you can spot a heart-shaped hydrangea here!

Kabukiza: If you want a quintessential Japanese experience, visit Kabukiza and enjoy a show. Kabuki is a traditional form of Japanese theater that literally translated, means: sing (歌 ka), dance (踊 bu), and skill（技 ki). Since 2008, Kabuki is on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Churaumi Aquarium: Home to 710 species of marine life, Churaumi Aquarium is one of the biggest aquariums in the world. The aquarium is home to 2 whale sharks, the world's largest species of fish.

@cosme Tokyo: This place is a one-stop shop for all beauty lovers! With almost 14,000 square feet of floor space, this store has an extensive selection of affordable to luxury brand beauty products. You can find everything from skin care to make-up to body care to brushes and tools.

teamLAB Borderless, MORI Building Digital Arts Museum: One of Tokyo's latest and most Instagrammed attractions. teamLAB Tokyo is made up of four large artwork spaces and two gardens. This fully immersive experience is definitely worth it.

Day trips

Hakone: Hakone is one of the most popular destinations among Japanese nationals and international tourists known for its hot springs. On a sunny day, you may be able to see Mt. Fuji from the lake, but June in Japan is their rainy season so don't count on it. You can tour the many museums, take a break in the hot springs or enjoy the view from the Hakone Ropeway.

Nara: 40 minutes from Kyoto, Nara is another city known for its traditional shrines, temples and gardens. You can see the wild deer near Todaiji temple. Todaiji Temple is the most popular land mark of Nara, known for the 15 meter tall Daibutsu.

Jojoen: Great Japanese BBQ restaurant with locations multiple convenient locations in Tokyo.

Chibo: Best place for okonomiyaki!

Katsu Midori: A popular revolving sushi restaurant where you can order through an iPad at your table. Get there early because there's always a line before they open at 11am.

Kagizen Yoshifusa: A historic confectionary in Kyoto, they change their menu according to the season. You can enjoy sweets that look like hydrangeas in June!

Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo: Located along the Meguro River, this Starbucks is a great location to enjoy the view even on a rainy day in June.

Okinawa Cuisine Shimadofu: You can enjoy authentic Okinawa food in the middle of Tokyo! They always have fresh vegetables straight from Okinawa. Be aware they are closed on the weekends.

Tops: They opened in 1964 inside TBS TV station and are known to have spread the popularity of Chocolate Cake in Japan. Their Butter Chicken Curry and Tomato Salad are not to be missed!