Day Trip from Tokyo: Discover the Beauty of Kinchakuda

Kinchakuda (巾着田) is a breathtaking natural area located in Hidaka City, Saitama Prefecture, just outside of Tokyo. Every autumn, it transforms into a vibrant sea of over 5 million red spider lilies (known as manjushage in Japanese), attracting visitors from all over Japan and beyond.

What is Kinchakuda?

The name “Kinchakuda” comes from the area’s unique shape—like a traditional Japanese drawstring bag (kinchaku)—created by a looping bend in the Koma River. This scenic spot covers around 5.5 hectares and is one of the largest red spider lily fields in Japan. It’s especially famous during the Kinchakuda Manjushage Festival, when the entire field bursts into brilliant red.

Best Time to Visit

Blooming Season: Mid-September to early October
This is when the spider lilies reach full bloom. The peak period can vary slightly each year depending on the weather.
Festival Period: Held during the blooming season
Local food stalls, craft shops, and cultural events make this time especially festive and fun.
Pro Tip: Weekends can get very crowded. Visit on a weekday or in the early morning for a more peaceful experience.

Access

By Train

From Tokyo:
Take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line to Koma Station, then walk about 15 minutes to Kinchakuda.
From JR Kawagoe Line:
Get off at Komagawa Station, and take a local bus or taxi (around 10 minutes).

By Car

From Tsurugashima IC (Kan-Etsu Expressway) or Sayama-Hidaka IC (Ken-O Expressway), it’s about a 20-minute drive.
Parking is available near the site for ¥500 per car (subject to change during peak season).

Admission

Entry Fee:
During peak blooming season, an entrance fee may apply (usually around ¥300–¥500).
Free Entry:
Outside the blooming period, the area is open to the public for free.

Highlights & Scenic Spots

Red Spider Lily Fields: Walk through pathways lined with millions of red blossoms, nestled between forests and riversides.
Ai-Ai Bridge: The longest wooden truss bridge in Japan offers fantastic photo opportunities and a panoramic view of the flowers.
Koma River Bank: A peaceful place to sit and enjoy the scenery. Picnics are welcome (no open flames allowed).
Rare White Spider Lilies & Suifuyou Flowers: Spot unique blooms throughout the area.
Mt. Hiwada Hike: For a bird’s-eye view of Kinchakuda’s shape and the surrounding countryside, take a short hike to Mt. Hiwada’s summit.

Nearby Attractions

Koma Shrine: A historic shrine connected to Korean immigrants from ancient Goguryeo, located just a short walk from Kinchakuda.
Cosmos Fields: Blooming in late September, these colorful flowers add even more charm to your visit.
Seasonal Beauty: In spring, cherry blossoms decorate the river; in autumn, colorful leaves make for stunning scenery.

Why Visit?

Kinchakuda is a perfect day trip from Tokyo for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable seasonal experience in Japan. Whether you’re coming for the flowers, the local festival, or just to enjoy a peaceful walk along the river, Kinchakuda is a hidden gem worth discovering.