Although first cultivated in China, the chrysanthemum is one of Japan’s most cherished flowers. So important is it that the Emperor and Imperial Family are often referred to as the Chrysanthemum Throne, with the flower featured on the official seal.
The Emperor’s actual throne isn’t made of flowers, but it does carry the chrysanthemum seal. You’ll also find the flower on the Japanese passport, the ¥50 coin, and at countless festivals and special events throughout the year.
The Imperial Family’s love for the chrysanthemum dates back to Emperor Ninmyō in the 8th century. He had the large yellow flowers planted across the palace grounds in Kyoto and even dyed his robes yellow using their petals.
Known in Japan as kiku, chrysanthemums are at their peak from September to late in the year. Gardens and shrines across the country host large-scale displays, often in tents and pavilions, drawing crowds eager to see the colourful blooms. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden offers one of the most spectacular displays, with thousands of chrysanthemums on show during the first two weeks of November.
Visitors to these displays often find themselves captivated not just by the flowers, but by the artistry behind them. Each exhibit is carefully designed, with some flowers trained into intricate shapes or arranged to tell a visual story. The displays provide a rare chance to see horticultural skill, patience, and creativity combined in a truly immersive experience.
Selective breeding has produced an incredible variety of chrysanthemums, from simple daisy-like blooms to exotic flowers with petals resembling fireworks. Colours range from white, green, pink, red, brown, and yellow to even blue.
Creating these displays takes months. Two main styles are popular: the single display, where three large blooms can reach up to 30 cm across, and the cascade, where plants are carefully trained into a flowing carpet of flowers, sometimes spanning 2 to 3 metres in length and width.