If you’re visiting Tokyo in the autumn, you’ll not only get to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage but also discover many stunning suburban landscapes that are truly worth seeing.
We’ve compiled a list of three must-see autumn spots in Tokyo’s suburbs. Keep reading to find out more!
The Mysterious Spider Lily
Each early autumn, as temperatures cool and the gentle autumn breeze sets in, the enigmatic spider lily begins to bloom. Often featured in Japanese manga and anime, this flower exudes a sense of mystery and reveals its captivating beauty during this season.
To experience the stunning beauty of spider lilies, Nogawa Park in Koganei City, Tokyo is the best place to see them. This park maintains a lush natural environment and offers expansive lawns, tennis courts, sports fields, and various other facilities, making it a perfect destination for visitors of all ages.
In the park’s Nature Observation Garden, spider lilies bloom in clusters from late September to early October, drawing numerous visitors. Despite its modest size, the garden is filled with these striking flowers growing densely among the trees. When in full bloom, the area transforms into a vivid sea of red, resembling a stunning red carpet spread across the ground.
The blooming period of the spider lilies is quite short, so to catch the full display of these beautiful flowers, make sure to check the current blooming status on Nogawa Park’s official website!
- Nogawa Park
- 9:30~16:30 Open Hours
- The park is closed every Monday (if Monday is a national holiday, it will be open that day and closed on Tuesday); it is also closed from December 29 to January 3.
- From Shinjuku Station, take the Chūō Line to Musashi-Koganei Station, then walk for one minute and transfer to the Tamagawa Line to Shin-Koganei Station. From there, it’s a 14-minute walk to the park.
- Admission is free.
- Current Blooming Status
The Purest Natural Scenery - Pampas Grass Fields
From late October to mid-November each year, the pampas grass transitions from the shimmering fields of spring to a golden landscape in the fall.
At Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields, one of the most popular spots in Hakone, you can admire this pure and breathtaking natural scenery.
The Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields, spanning approximately four times the size of Tokyo Dome, are situated on the slopes at the base of a mountain. Each season brings its own charm, but early autumn is especially enchanting. At this time, the flower spikes begin to emerge and unfurl, turning the area into a breathtaking golden pampas grass field—a true highlight of the season!
The entire field shimmers under the sunlight, and as you walk along the straight path through the center, you can get an up-close view of the pampas grass, which towers above you—it’s truly breathtaking! In the distance, you’ll also be treated to stunning views of the mountains and wetlands.
The walking path can become crowded during peak viewing season, so we suggest visiting in the morning or late afternoon, especially if you’re planning to go on a weekend or Japanese public holiday. Additionally, due to the higher altitude, be sure to dress warmly while taking in the beautiful scenery!
- Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields
- Transportation information: Depart from Shinjuku Station, take the Odakyu Line (Odawara Line) to Odawara Station, walk for 3 minutes, then take the T Togendai Line (Togendai Line) and get off at Sengoku-Kogen Station, and walk for 1 minute.
- The round trip time on the trail is about 30 minutes.
- Official Website
Autumn Limited - Red Kochia
In the suburbs of Tokyo, a famous spot to see kochia is Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki Prefecture!
This is a must-visit spot in Tokyo during autumn. With its vibrant seasonal flowers, there’s always something beautiful to see throughout the year! Notable highlights include the romantic pink spider lilies in spring around May and the stunning red kochia in the fall.
Kochia begins to change color around early October each year. Over 30,000 kochia plants transform from their fresh green hue to a vibrant red as autumn progresses. From a distance, they resemble a blanket of red pom-poms, creating a truly stunning sight!
If you’re traveling to Japan in the fall, make sure to visit this breathtaking scenery first to set the stage for your maple viewing adventure!
- Hitachi Seaside Park
- Opening Hours: September to October: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM November to February: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM March to July 20: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM July 21 to August 31: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM
- The park is closed every Tuesday (if it is a national holiday, it will be closed on the next weekday), the end of the year and the first Monday to Friday in February.
- Typically, admission fees are 450 yen for adults (15 years and older), 210 yen for seniors, and free for junior high school students and below. Admission fees may vary during specific seasons.
- From Shinagawa Station, take the Joban Line express train to Katsuta Station. From the East Exit, take a bus from bus stop 2 to the West Entrance of the park. (Direct buses are available during spring and autumn.)
- Official Website
Conclusion
Whether it’s the enchanting spider lilies at Nogawa Park, the golden pampas grass fields at Sengokuhara, or the vibrant kochia at Hitachi Seaside Park, these are all exceptional autumn attractions in the suburbs of Tokyo. Be sure to add these destinations to your must-visit list when planning your autumn trip to Tokyo!
Original article was written by Shirley
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