Update-date: Aug 30 2024
The red spider lily, known as higanbana in Japanese, is a beloved symbol of autumn in Japan. Its peak season runs from September to November, blooming all across the country. This article introduces the best places to see red spider lilies in the historic Nara region. Get ready to be enraptured by the beauty of these otherworldly flowers!
What Is the Red Spider Lily?
It’s believed that the red spider lily came to Japan in ancient times from China. Historically, it was used as a famine food, as well as to ward off pests and weeds. It’s known by many names in Japan, most commonly higanbana. The origin of this name lies in the Japanese calendar, where there are two Higan in spring and autumn. These are the seven-day periods around the spring and autumn equinoxes, when day and night are of equal length. The name comes from these flowers blooming during the autumn Higan.
Another Japanese name for the red spider lily is “manjyu-shage,” which is a Sanskrit word meaning “flower that blooms in heaven.” This is derived from Buddhist scriptures, which describe red flowers falling from the sky as an auspicious omen.
The many names for the red spider lily prove just how deeply this flower has been cherished in Japan since ancient times.
The many names for the red spider lily prove just how deeply this flower has been cherished in Japan since ancient times.
Where Is Nara?
Nara Prefecture is located in almost the center of Japan and was the ancient capital during the country's formative period. Many sites revealing the long history of Japan still remain in Nara, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These are the Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area, centered around Horyu-ji Temple; the Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara, represented by Todai-ji Temple; and the Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range, which includes Mt. Yoshino.
Nara City is packed with attractions, and is just a 3 to 3 hour and 20-minute trip from Tokyo, and 1 hour and 20 minutes from Kansai International Airport. It’s also right next to Kyoto, just a 30 to 45-minute train ride away, making it a popular day-trip destination or follow up from Kyoto.
Nara City is packed with attractions, and is just a 3 to 3 hour and 20-minute trip from Tokyo, and 1 hour and 20 minutes from Kansai International Airport. It’s also right next to Kyoto, just a 30 to 45-minute train ride away, making it a popular day-trip destination or follow up from Kyoto.
Nara’s Best Spots for Red Spider Lilies #1
Those looking for red spider lilies in Nara should visit one of its famous temples and shrines first!
Butsuryu-ji Temple
Located in Uda City in northeastern Nara, Butsuryu-ji Temple has a long history dating back to 850. Come autumn, the 200 stone step path leading to the temple gate becomes engulfed in a sea of brilliant red spider lilies. Though the flowers were nearly wiped out in 2013-2014 due to deers and other wildlife, generous donations of bulbs from across Japan have helped restore their beauty over the past few years. The stairs are steep, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes!
Located in Uda City in northeastern Nara, Butsuryu-ji Temple has a long history dating back to 850. Come autumn, the 200 stone step path leading to the temple gate becomes engulfed in a sea of brilliant red spider lilies. Though the flowers were nearly wiped out in 2013-2014 due to deers and other wildlife, generous donations of bulbs from across Japan have helped restore their beauty over the past few years. The stairs are steep, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes!
Hitokotonushi Shrine
The ancient Katsuragi Kodo trail runs north-south in Gose City, which is celebrated as the birthplace of Japanese mythology. Along this historic trail, nestled at the foot of Mt. Katsuragi, lies Hitokotonushi Shrine. This shrine is so historically significant that it is mentioned in the Kojiki, Japan’s oldest chronicle, reflecting the deep reverence it has inspired throughout time.
The area surrounding the shrine is characterized by tranquil rural scenery, where rice terraces, embankments, and fields are dotted with vibrant red spider lilies in autumn. The striking contrast between the bright red flowers and the lush greenery creates a vivid landscape that pops out on film.
The ancient Katsuragi Kodo trail runs north-south in Gose City, which is celebrated as the birthplace of Japanese mythology. Along this historic trail, nestled at the foot of Mt. Katsuragi, lies Hitokotonushi Shrine. This shrine is so historically significant that it is mentioned in the Kojiki, Japan’s oldest chronicle, reflecting the deep reverence it has inspired throughout time.
The area surrounding the shrine is characterized by tranquil rural scenery, where rice terraces, embankments, and fields are dotted with vibrant red spider lilies in autumn. The striking contrast between the bright red flowers and the lush greenery creates a vivid landscape that pops out on film.
Nara’s Best Spots for Red Spider Lilies #2
The cradle of Japan lies in Nara, and its red spider lilies are set against a backdrop that echoes the ancient landscapes of the nation’s beginnings.
Asuka Village
Asuka Village is one of the most famous spots for red spider lilies in the entire Kansai region. Once the center of ancient Japan, its idyllic rural scenery is incredibly well preserved. In early autumn, red spider lilies bloom throughout the village, with the Inabuchi area the most renowned. Here, around 300 rice paddies drape across gentle hills, and the golden ears of rice form a breathtaking pattern with the crimson flowers.
Asuka Village is one of the most famous spots for red spider lilies in the entire Kansai region. Once the center of ancient Japan, its idyllic rural scenery is incredibly well preserved. In early autumn, red spider lilies bloom throughout the village, with the Inabuchi area the most renowned. Here, around 300 rice paddies drape across gentle hills, and the golden ears of rice form a breathtaking pattern with the crimson flowers.
Restaurants to Visit After Your Autumn Flower Viewing
After enjoying the autumn red spider lilies, treat yourself to Nara’s famous local cuisine at these two recommended restaurants!
Yakiniku Kappo Bimi (Yamatotakada / Yakiniku)
This reservation-only yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) restaurant sources whole A4 to A5 grade Japanese Black wagyu cattle and serves up almost every cut, from marbled to lean meat. The go-to choice is the [Delicious Meat Master Course] (7,500 JPY), which presents the best lineup based on the freshest ingredients available at the time. The course includes creative dishes like beef and vegetable carpaccio, salads, ajillo, and even dessert.
The restaurant interior is both chic and tranquil. There are also fully private VIP rooms with traditional Japanese design, catering from small groups to large parties. English and Chinese-speaking staff are available.
Yakiniku Kappo Bimi
Open: 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 7,500 JPY
Access: 13-minute by car from the Horyuji IC Exit
Address: 812-1, Hirao, Koryo-cho, Kitakatsuragi-gun, Nara Map
More Details
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 7,500 JPY
Access: 13-minute by car from the Horyuji IC Exit
Address: 812-1, Hirao, Koryo-cho, Kitakatsuragi-gun, Nara Map
More Details
Osakanadokoro Sakurachaya (Shin-Omiya / Izakaya)
This restaurant offers a quiet dining experience tucked away in a residential neighborhood near the train station. Instead of a signboard, the soft glow of a cherry blossom lamp marks the secretive entrance. The highlight is the chef’s expertly-selected fresh seafood, sourced directly from Japan’s finest fishing ports and skillfully transformed into culinary masterpieces. The [Luxury seasonal course] (15,400 JPY) is highly recommended, featuring a variety of in-season seafood, wagyu beef, tempura, and sushi. There is also a selection of sake from small breweries chosen to match the dishes.
Known only to local foodies, the cozy, welcoming atmosphere, fresh and flavorful ingredients, rare local sake, and inventive Japanese cuisine come together for a wholly satisfying dinner.
Osakanadokoro Sakurachaya
Open: Lunch 11:45 am - 2:00 pm (L.O. 1:30 pm) *Reservations required by the day before / Dinner 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm) *Last entry at 9:00 pm
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 9,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,000 JPY
Access: 275m from Shin-Omiya Station
Address: 4-253-3, Omiya-cho, Nara-shi, Nara Map
More Details Reservation
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 9,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,000 JPY
Access: 275m from Shin-Omiya Station
Address: 4-253-3, Omiya-cho, Nara-shi, Nara Map
More Details Reservation
Japan’s springtime cherry blossoms are wonderful, but the autumn red spider lilies are undoubtedly worth seeing too. If you find yourself in the historic city of Nara in autumn, don’t miss the chance to admire their enchanting beauty!
Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.
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