The ancient capital of Kamakura flourished as the 'home of the samurai' during the Kamakura era (1185-1333), when the warrior class seized power for the first time. Nowadays, this simple, sleepy town is a hotspot for beachgoers, temple spotters and flower enthusiasts. Every June, the streets teem with tourists and get a splash of colour thanks to hydrangea season. Hasedera Temple and Meigetsuin (also known as Hydrangea Temple) both become enveloped in purple as 2,500 hydrangea plants in over 40 varieties come to life. There are also many more peaceful temples dotting the roads leading from Kamakura Station, all of which become decorated with unique hydrangea displays. Especially pretty are the views of the ocean spied through the hydrangeas at Jojuin Temple and the rural charm of Tokeiji Temple's promenade garden.