Cosmos flowers are one sign of autumn in Japan, and they can be enjoyed in abundance at the Akebonoyama Agricultural Park in Chiba. Approximately 2.2 hectares – or around the size of three soccer fields – are filled with these seasonal flowers, in a variety of different colors. This year, the cosmos are anticipated to reach their peak around the mid to late October timeframe, and a variety of events will be held at the park in celebration of this.
There will be opportunities to take part in craft workshops to make autumn themed tote bags, a flower market where visitors can pick up succulents and flower seedlings, a variety of food stalls represented by local restaurants, and even the chance to make jack o' lanterns later in October. The workshops and craft programs require advance reservations, and those can be made by visiting the park's website here (in Japanese).
The park will be posting regular updates about the cosmos flowering situation on their social media platforms, so be sure to check their Facebook or Instagram before your visit.
If you can't time a visit for this autumn, the park is renowned for its beauty in other seasons as well. During spring, there are cherry blossoms, tulips, shibazakura (moss phlox), azaleas, and poppies, the summer months bring hydrangeas, water lilies, sunflowers, and irises, and winter has violas and plum blossoms to appreciate. This article gives a glimpse into the park grounds during spring.