By: Alex
Chrysanthemums are a symbol of autumn; seeing them means summer has passed. In the rural outskirts of Kyoto, Japan, you can find a new variety called Mizuhiki chrysanthemums. They bloom as early as the end of July and remain at their best viewing period until mid-August.
▲ (photo by m.takayama4287 @IG)
The most striking feature of Mizuhiki chrysanthemums is their pale purple flowers. In fact, some say that under sunlight, the petals appear purplish-red, while in the shade, they turn a bluish-purple. Since they are grown in farmland, when they bloom, they form vast expanses that resemble a “flower carpet,” attracting many flower enthusiasts and photographers who drive along remote rural roads to this mountain village to admire the blossoms and take photos.
▲ (photo by yuki___l4d @IG)
Mizuhiki chrysanthemums were developed through repeated improvements from Korean ornamental kale and are said to be a hybrid of more than five varieties. Currently, the main cultivation area is in Kuta Miyanomachi, the northernmost part of Sakyo Ward in Kyoto City, hence they are locally also known as “Northern Mountain Mizuhiki Chrysanthemums.” Interestingly, visitors might also spot a white horse strolling near the flower fields. It is usually kept in Kuta but is not used for farming; instead, it is reserved for ceremonial events at nearby shrines.
▲ (photo by tatikoma1984 @IG)
▲ (photo by yu_ki7145 @IG)
▲ (photo by hironoki_ko.kyoto @IG)
▲ (photo by sarah_uk214 @IG)
▲ (photo by pic_meee8686 @IG)
▲ (photo by sarah_uk214 @IG)
▲ (photo by ino_take_ @Twitter)
▲ (photo by michikokuwahara @IG)
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Sources: Kyoto Shimbun, Kyoto City Information Center, Cue Japan