In Japan, autumn and chrysanthemums just go together. There are a number of festivals held across the country where visitors can enjoy their colorful beauty, and the largest chrysanthemum festival in Niigata Prefecture is held on the grounds of Yahiko Shrine.
The event boasts over 4000 pots filled with flowers, flanked by the shrine itself and the stunning mountain surroundings. The shrine itself is a worthy destination year-round, with many different historical artifacts on display at the shrine's treasury.
Admission to the shrine and the festival is free of charge.
Getting there
Yahiko Shrine is situated approximately 15 minutes on foot from Yahiko Station, served by the JR Yahiko Line. Alternatively if you're headed to the shrine via private vehicle, there are a number of free parking lots in the lead up to the shrine itself. Bear in mind that if you visit the festival on a weekend, the parking spaces fill up significantly faster than on weekdays.
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