The Autumn Equinox (September 23rd in 2026) is one of the most fitting times to encounter higanbana, also known as red spider lilies. Their Japanese name literally means “Higan flower”, linking them to the Buddhist observance that takes place three days either side of the spring and autumn equinoxes. The connection extends beyond Japan, as the flowers are also sometimes referred to in English as “equinox flowers”, a nod to their habit of blooming around this time of year. With both their Japanese and English names tied to the season, few flowers feel more appropriate for an Autumn Equinox visit to a temple.
Higanbana at a Soto Zen temple in Hanyu
The flowers pictured in this post were taken today at a Soto Zen temple in Hanyu City, named Shōheizan Genshōin. I actually saved the temple as a higanbana spot on Google Maps years ago, but I can’t remember where I first heard about it. I doubt it was through social media, as I barely used it back then, and even now I rarely come across posts about the temple online. Still, the pin sat patiently on my map for years. Since I happened to be in the area today, I opened my saved locations, spotted it again, and decided it was finally time to see it for myself.
The display isn’t particularly large, but it is undeniably picturesque. Located behind the main hall ‘hondo’, the higanbana grow close together, making the display appear fuller and especially photogenic. A few trees provide natural focal points throughout the area, and a wooden shed adds a touch of rustic charm while creating a lovely backdrop for photos.
I don’t know much else about the temple, except what I read online. According to the temple’s history, it was founded in 1605 (Keichō 10) by a retainer of the Hanyu Castle lord Kido Tadatomo. From what I can tell, it would seem that – unusually for a Zen temple – its principal deity is Jizo Bosatsu, specifically Enmei Jizo-son.
I noticed that there is a lotus pond in front of the temple. I imagine that looks particularly nice in season with the temple in the background. On their website they promote themselves as a ‘flower temple’ with additional seasonal blooms such as cherry blossoms, peonies, daffodils and autumn leaves.
Temple Information
Temple: Shōheizan Genshōin 祥平山 源昌院
Address: 1049-1 Inago, Hanyu City, Saitama 348-0061. View on Google Maps.
Access: Genshōin Temple is located in Inago, Hanyu City, and is easiest to reach by car. The temple grounds include a parking area for visitors. The nearest station might be Hanyu Station which is about a 50 minute walk away. I did not notice any bus stops in the area, but according to Google Maps there is one about a nine minute walk away: 稲子集会所.
In the area: Hanyu Riverside Park is about a ten minute drive away. Kazo Miraikan is about a 13 minute drive away. I also visited there today and the cosmos have started to bloom. On the drive from the temple to Kazo Miraikan you pass a shrine where you can see Torii x Red Spider Lilies.
More than 30 red spider lily spots in Saitama Prefecture.
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