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This autumn is a unique one as this centers around the annual herb Kochia or Bassia scoparia carnival that constitutes 32, 000 plants planted in a 1.9-hectare hill. Bassia is a flowering plant from the amaranth family. During autumn, the plant’s leaves turn vivid red as they cover a 350-hectare field at the Hitachi Seaside on the Miharashi Hill.

The view of the hill is almost like a complete wonderland of beautiful spherical plants that dot the hilly landscape. During summer, Bassia plants are green but as September progresses, their flowers turn pinkish or vivid red. Likewise, some Kochia is also grown for its edible seeds.

Color changes

Green - Early July to Late September

Green-Pink gradient - Early October to Mid-October

Red - Mid-October

Details

Dates: September 24 - October 15

Address: Hitachi Seaside Park, 605-4 Onuma-aza, Mawatai, Hitachinaka, Ibaraki 312-0012

Map: See Map

Opening hours: 9:30-17:00

Entrance fees: Adult: 15 and above 450 yen

Senior citizens: 210 yen

Youngsters and high school students are free

Tags: Kochia, Kochia carnival, Bassia scoparia, carnival, plants, events, festivities, autumn, autumn festivals, autumn events, japan