Beyond Japan’s iconic autumn foliage, there’s another natural wonder often overlooked: the spider lily, known as higanbana or manjushage in Japanese. These vibrant flowers bloom in late summer to early fall and the name reflects this, with the autumnal equinox known as higan . The toxicity of spider lilies also makes them a natural deterrent to pests and animals near temples and graveyards, leading to their association with death and the afterlife.
Renowned for their macabre beauty, these fiery blooms have even made multiple appearances in anime such as Demon Slaye r and Tokyo Ghoul . From serene temples to sprawling parks, find out the best places to witness higanbana blooming. And the best part? Many of these spots are just a short trip from Tokyo, so read on for the details.
Spider Lilies in Tokyo Prefecture Just a short walk away from Iidabashi Station and Tokyo Dome, Koishikawa Korakuen Garden is one of the oldest and best preserved Japanese-style gardens in the capital. Dating back to the early Edo period, the garden boasts ponds, hills and plenty of higanbana sprinkled along the banks of streams and pagodas. Near the east entrance, don’t miss the grove of ginkgo trees, which transform into a breathtaking golden spectacle in autumn.
Located west of Tokyo in Tachikawa city, Showa Kinen National Park was established in 1983 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Emperor Showa’s reign. While renowned for its cherry blossom trees and autumn foliage, the park also of.