Japan is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage, but maple leaves aren’t the only seasonal attraction worth seeing. Every autumn, thousands of round and fluffy Kochia bushes transform from bright green into vibrant shades of pink and crimson, creating stunning red landscapes across Japan.
What Is Red Kochia?
Red Kochia, also known as burning bush, is a round-shaped ornamental shrub scientifically known as Bassia scoparia. Unlike traditional autumn flowers, Kochia is famous for the dramatic color change of its foliage, turning from green in summer into brilliant red in autumn.
The bushes naturally grow into soft, spherical shapes, making entire hillsides look like they are covered with colorful fluffy balls. In the past, dried Kochia was also traditionally used to make brooms.
When Does Kochia Turn Red?
Kochia typically stays bright green from July to September. Around late September, the bushes gradually begin changing from green to pink and red, creating a beautiful gradient across the landscape.
By early to mid-October, many Kochia fields reach their peak crimson color. Towards the end of October, the red gradually fades into golden and brown tones as the plants dry out.
Where Can You See Red Kochia in Japan?
There are several parks and gardens across Japan where you can enjoy this unique autumn scenery. Some of the most popular spots include:
Hitachi Seaside Park, Ibaraki — Famous for its huge Miharashi Hill, covered with more than 30,000 Kochia bushes.
Oishi Park, Yamanashi — Offers beautiful views of red Kochia with Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi in the background.
Biwako Hakodateyama, Shiga — Enjoy colorful Kochia overlooking the vast blue waters of Lake Biwa.
Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, Osaka — Kochia grows alongside cosmos and pink muhly, creating a colorful seasonal landscape.
Tokyo German Village, Chiba — A convenient option near Tokyo, with Kochia turning vibrant red around October.
Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park, Hokkaido — A spacious park where Kochia adds another layer of color to Hokkaido’s autumn scenery.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
If you want to see Kochia at its most iconic deep crimson color, plan your visit for early to mid-October. However, the exact peak can vary each year depending on weather conditions and the location.
For travelers planning an autumn trip to Japan, adding a Kochia field to your itinerary is a great way to experience a different side of Japan’s seasonal beauty beyond the famous maple leaves.
Planning Your Autumn Trip to Japan?
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