Autumn in Japan transforms landscapes into vibrant tapestries of color, and one of the most breathtaking day trips from Tokyo to experience this seasonal magic is Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki. Renowned for its stunning display of kochia—crimson firebushes that blanket Miharashi Hill—this park offers a picturesque escape that peaks in October. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
What are Kochia?
Kochia, known scientifically as Kochia scoparia, is a versatile plant with various names such as summer cypress, firebush, and rageweed. In Japan, it is referred to as “kokia” (コキア) and has traditionally been used to craft durable brooms. Today, its ornamental value is celebrated, particularly for its stunning color changes from bright green in the summer to fiery red in the autumn.
While kochia can be found in several locations across Japan, Miharashi Hill in Hitachi Seaside Park is arguably the most popular destination. Another notable spot is Oishi Park, where kochia serves as a favorite backdrop for photos, especially with the majestic Mt. Fuji in the background.
The Mesmerizing Seasonal Change of Kochia
Kochia’s unique transformation is what draws visitors year-round. Native to dry areas in Eurasia, this annual plant belongs to the Amaranthaceae family and undergoes three distinct color changes:
- Vibrant Green (July to September): During the summer, Kochia bushes are a lush, vivid green, blanketing the hills.
- Green-Red Gradient (Early October): As fall begins, the bushes shift to a green-red gradient, creating a multi-colored landscape.
- Scarlet Red (Mid-October): By mid-October, the bushes turn a fiery scarlet red, offering a breathtaking view against the autumn sky.
- Golden Brown (Late October): Finally, the Kochia transitions into a golden hue as the colder days set in.
The best time to witness these changes is mid to late October when the full transformation peaks. The vivid contrast of colors against the serene Miharashi Hill backdrop makes it a photographer’s paradise.
Exploring Miharashi Hill
Hitachi Seaside Park is famed for two main attractions: baby blue eyes or nemophila in spring and the vibrant kochia in autumn. Both of these botanical marvels flourish on Miharashi Hill, providing a scenic backdrop for visitors throughout the year.
The hill features a winding path that gracefully meanders through the kochia, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty up close. The gentle slope makes for an easy stroll, perfect for leisurely walks and photography stops. As you wander along the path, the rustling of the kochia in the wind adds a soothing auditory element to the visual spectacle.
At the summit of Miharashi Hill, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the park and the expansive Pacific Ocean. A charming bell awaits at the top, inviting visitors to ring it as a delightful souvenir to commemorate their visit.
Hitachi Seaside Park is popular among foreign and local tourists alike, with tour buses catering to both. The photos were taken pre-pandemic, but they show you how crowded the park can get.. As with every popular flower spot in Japan, always come early, and if you can, come on a weekday.
Other Flowers, Too
You can see other flowers in season around the same time the kochia turn red. Among them are cosmos, buckwheat flowers, and susuki or pampas grass.
Kochia Food
Japan always finds a way to turn attractions into food, and Hitachi Seaside Park is no exception. Kochia are celebrated in mainly two forms: the soft-serve ice cream and the curry.
The ice cream pleases both the eyes and taste buds, with a combination of green (matcha) and red (strawberry). The colors represent the colors of kochia in summer and autumn.
The curry is disappointing at best. Let’s just say I tried it so you don’t have to.
Tips for Visitors
- Visit Early: Arrive early in the morning, especially on weekends and holidays, to avoid the largest crowds.
- Weekday Visits: Plan your trip on a weekday to enjoy a more tranquil experience.Off
- Peak Hours: Late afternoon visits can also be less crowded, offering a peaceful end to your day.
How to Get to Hitachi Seaside Park from Tokyo
Hitachi Seaside Park (ひたち海浜公園, ひたち かいひん こうえん、Hitachi Kaihin Kōen)
15-minute bus ride from Katsuta Station (JR Joban Line, Hitachi Kaihin Tetsudo Minato Line, Limited Express HITACHI and TOKIWA)
Business Hours: 09:30 to 17:00, closed on Tuesdays
Official Website
You can ride the Joban Line at Ueno, Tokyo, or Shinagawa and make your way to Katsuta Station. During peak season (nemophila and kochia), you can buy a round-trip bus ticket that comes along with the the park entrance fee at ¥1,080. This is usually available by the West Exit. During off-peak season, you can ride the bus going to Hitachi Seaside Park from the East Exit.
Alternatively, you can also take a highway bus from Tokyo Station.
Hitachi Seaside Park Admission Fees
Standard pricing
| Age | Individual | 2-day Ticket |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (15+) | ¥450 | ¥500 (¥350) |
| Senior (65+) | ¥210 | ¥250 (¥250) |
Seasonal pricing
| Age | Individual | 2-day Ticket |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (15+) | ¥700 | ¥1,000 |
| Senior (65+) | ¥460 | ¥750 |
2024 Hitachi Seaside Park Kochia Tours
In 2024, the following tours visit Hitachi Seaside Park during peak kochia season as part of its itinerary.
