As autumn arrives, the vibrant red spider lilies, also known as "Higanbana" in Japanese, captivate viewers with their striking color. The name "Higanbana" is derived from the fact that the flowers bloom during the autumn equinox ("Higan" in Japanese). Due to their red color, they are also called "Manjushage," a Sanskrit term meaning "red flower." These flowers can be seen in many places across Japan.
In this article, we’ll introduce seven carefully selected spots where you can enjoy breathtaking views of blooming red spider lilies.
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Best Season and Locations to See Red Spider Lilies
Red spider lilies are known for their short blooming period. Let's explore when and under what conditions you can see these flowers.
When is the Best Season to See Red Spider Lilies in Japan?
The typical viewing season is from mid-September to early October. The flowers bloom around the autumn equinox, making them a symbol of the season. The blooming of red spider lilies is greatly influenced by temperature, with the ideal average daily temperature being between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. This is precisely why they bloom around the time of the autumn equinox.
Where Can You See Red Spider Lilies in Japan?
They can be primarily seen in Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. These flowers grow in familiar places like fields and along roadsides. In areas with strong sunlight, the blooming tends to be delayed, while in cooler locations, they may bloom earlier.
1. Haguroyama Park (Miyagi Prefecture)
Haguroyama Park is a famous spot for red spider lilies, attracting visitors from all over the country during the blooming season. The best time to visit is from mid-September, when about 150,000 red spider lilies cover the 5,000 square meters of mountain slopes, creating a stunning red carpet-like effect.
The park features a lawn area and playground equipment, making it a great spot for families with children. Various events such as photo contests and festivals are held, so it might be a good idea to plan your visit around these events.
- Address: 72-1 Haguro, Ono, Furukawa, Osaki City, Miyagi Prefecture
- Hours: 24 hours
- Peak Season: Mid-September to Late September
［kkday]👉Miyagi Recommended Leisure, Experience Activities, Fun and Sightseeing Information
2. Gongendo Park (Saitama)
Located in Satte City, Saitama Prefecture, Gongendo Park is a place where nature thrives throughout the seasons. The area around the famous Sakura Tsutsumi (Cherry Blossom Bank) is adorned with vibrant seasonal flowers. The best time to view the red spider lilies, known as "Manjushage," is from mid-September to early October when over 3 million of these flowers blanket the embankments, creating a breathtaking scene. The park features well-maintained walking paths, making it easy for families with children to enjoy a stroll.
From September to October, the "Satte Manjushage Festival" takes place, where visitors can marvel at the sea of red flowers. The event also features food stalls and souvenir shops, with the homemade bread sold at Toge-no-Chaya (Mountain Pass Teahouse) being especially popular.
- Address: 887-3 Uchigouma, Satte City, Saitama Prefecture
- Hours (Toge no Chaya): 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
- Peak Season: Mid-September to Early October
［kkday]👉Saitama Recommended Leisure, Experience, Fun and Sightseeing Information
3. Kinchakuda Red Spider Lily Park (Saitama Prefecture)
Located about a 15-minute walk from Koryo Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line, Manjusaka Park is famous for its clusters of red spider lilies that bloom in autumn in Japan. From mid to late September, when they are in full bloom, about 5 million red spider lilies dye the area red. Many tourists from all over the country come every year to catch a glimpse of the sight.
The Goryeo River flows through Hidaka City, Saitama Prefecture. On the riverbed is the purse-string field Manju Saka Park. In this park, not only red spider lilies, but also cherry blossoms and rape blossoms bloom in spring, and hydrangeas bloom in summer, so you can enjoy the flowers of the four seasons.
- Address: 125-2 Komahongo, Hidaka City, Saitama Prefecture
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Peak Season: Mid-September to Late September
4. Expo'70 Commemorative Park (Osaka)
At Expo '70 Commemorative Park, red spider lilies can be seen annually in three main areas: around Momiji River, near the Japanese Garden’s iris fields, and on the north side of Nishi-Oji. The park's official social media channels provide updates on the blooming status, so it's a good idea to check before visiting.
From August to October, the park is bustling with families and tourists. In addition to the vivid red spider lilies, there's also an area where pure white spider lilies bloom, making the search for them part of the fun.
- Address: Senribanpakukoen, Suita City, Osaka Prefecture
- Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM *Closed on Wednesdays
- Peak Season: August to October
［kkday]👉Osaka Expo Commemoration Park | Natural and Cultural Gardens Admission Ticket
［kkday]👉Osaka Expo Commemoration Park | Natural and Cultural Gardens and Expo BEAST Ticket
5. Oohara no Sato (Kyoto)
Located at the foot of Mount Hiei, surrounded by lush green mountains, Ohara no Sato is one of Kyoto's most famous spots for red spider lilies. This area, steeped in history, is said to have once been home to royalty and aristocrats, and it’s dotted with many historical structures. The best time to view the red spider lilies here is from mid to late September. The combination of the flowers lining the paths and the thatched-roof traditional houses creates a nostalgic atmosphere.
During the same period, cosmos flowers also bloom, offering the rare chance to enjoy both flowers simultaneously in some locations. Ohara no Sato’s idyllic rural scenery is like a trip back in time. Consider adding it to your itinerary for an autumn visit to Kyoto.
- Address: Around Raigo-incho, Ohara, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Hours: 24 hours
- Peak Season: Mid to Late September
👉 The Path of Flowers - Ohara Tourism Hoshokai
［kkday]👉[One-day tour in Kyoto] Kifune Shrine Ryusui Somen Ohara Sanzenin Rurikoin | Private car tour
6. Miyoshi City Tsuji's Red Spider Lilies Colony (Hiroshima)
Located in Hiroshima Prefecture, the Tsuji's Red Spider Lilies Colony is surrounded by the Basengawa (Basen River) and rice fields. The area has been meticulously maintained by local volunteers over the years, resulting in a widespread growth of red spider lilies.
While red spider lilies are commonly found along the edges of rice paddies and rivers, at the Tsujino Cluster Amaryllis spot, you'll see them blooming in clusters, almost like a sea of flowers. This unique landscape is a testament to the careful maintenance by the local community. The extensive area covered by these flowers offers a breathtaking view that is sure to leave visitors in awe.
- Address: Tsujino, Kisa-cho, Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
- Hours: 24 hours
- Peak Season: Late September
［kkday]👉Hiroshima Recommended Leisure, Experience, Fun and Sightseeing Information
7. Tsuzura Rice Fields (Fukuoka)
Tsuzura Terraced Rice Fields in Fukuoka Prefecture is one of Japan's Top 100 Terraced Rice Fields. The sight of the bright red spider lilies lining the paths amidst the shining terraced fields is truly stunning. Around mid-September, about 500,000 red spider lilies bloom, and the "Cluster Amaryllis Tour & Basara Festival" is held, drawing many tourists from all over the country. During the festival, you can also purchase local specialty products from the mountainous region.
The charm of Tsuzura Terraced Rice Fields lies in its nostalgic Japanese scenery, where you can enjoy the contrast of about 500,000 red spider lilies against the lush green terraced fields. The recommended viewing spot is the Yahho Plaza, where you'll be treated to a breathtakingly beautiful landscape.
- Address: 3227 Niikawa, Ukiha-machi, Ukiha City, Fukuoka Prefecture
- Hours: 24 hours
- Peak Season: Mid-September
［kkday]👉Fukuoka Recommended Leisure, Experience, Fun and Sightseeing Information
Let's Go See Red Spider Lilies in Japan!
In this article, we've introduced seven carefully selected spots where you can see red spider lilies in full bloom. The timing of the blooms varies depending on the location, so it's essential to check the facility’s website before visiting.
Although the red spider lilies' blooming season is short, the impact of seeing them in full bloom is all the more memorable. It’s sure to be an unforgettable part of your trip.
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