Spider lilies kick off the fall season in Japan

The mainland of Japan has four seasons and for each season a new flower to look forward to.

Sakura always reminds us of spring; hydrangea and iris give the would-be monotonic rainy season an elegant violent color; yellow sunflowers go with the hot and humid summer; and warm red cyclamen and cool white narcissus flowers bring a little color to the desolate winter.

Ringing in the end of summer and the start of fall brings many flowers and vibrant foliage. Now is the time when chrysanthemums, higanbama or manjushage (spider lilies) come into full bloom all around the mainland.

You’ll find spider lilies in some surprising spots starting in late September through mid-October. Keep your eyes peeled for them on walks, in temple gardens or even cemeteries around your neighborhood. The uniquely shaped and bright reddish flowers remind us that the cool season of autumn has finally arrived.

These higanbana photos were taken in Eishoji Temple in Kamakura, known as one of the most popular higanbana viewing spots on Oct. 5. Have you spotted these brilliant red flowers yet? Share your pics with us on Facebook!

Eishoji

Location: 1-16-3 Ougigaya, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture (10-minute walk from JR Kamakura Station)
Hours: Fri - Wed, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Admission: adult 300 yen, high schoolers 200 yen, middle schoolers and younger 100 yen
URL: www.trip-kamakura.com/place/84.html
Tel: 0467-22-3534