September is the month to see Higanbana, spider lilies, in Japan. Everyone comes to see cherry blossoms or lavender but few people know about this fascinating, fiery flower. Here, we introduce the best three places to see a sea of spider lilies in the Kanto region of Japan, an easy day trip from Tokyo.
Kichakuda Manjushage Park (Saitama prefecture)
One of the largest parks in Japan, you can see over five million spider lilies blooming at the Kinchakuda Manjushage Park. Walk through a sea of red as you stroll through the beautifully green forest.
A lone white spider lily has its own charm so try to spot one!
Address: 125-2 Komahongo, Hidaka-shi, Saitama
Official website: https://www.hidakashikankou.gr.jp/manjushage/
Hinata Yakushi (Kanagawa prefecture)
The Hinata area is one of the most famous spots in the Kanto region and is ranked in the top 100 scenic spots.
The spider lilies grow along the edges of the rice fields creating a stark contrast between the red and green. The bulbs of Higanbana are poisonous so farmers plant these intentionally to keep pests and rodents out.
Although the area is flat, it is quite large so wear comfortable shoes.
Address: 1644 Hinata, Isehara-shi, Kanagawa
Official website: http://hinatayakushi.com/
Kenei Gongendo Park (Saitama prefecture)
This park is famous for its cherry blossoms and rape blossoms in spring but in September, people flock to see the higanbana. Approximately 3 million spider lilies can be seen here!
A store called Touge No Chaya (峠の茶屋) is perfect to buy some delicious baked goods that you can enjoy in the park.
Address: 50 Kouemon, Kuku-shi, Saitama
Official website: http://www.satte-k.com/event/manjyusyage/index.html
Autumn Must-See
September in Japan can still be quite warm, so we recommend visiting these parks in the early morning to catch the “dewy” look of the flowers and avoid the afternoon humidity. Whether you are walking through the massive forest of Kinchakuda or the rice fields of Hinata, the spider lily season is a short but unforgettable window into Japan’s natural beauty.
