Introduction
Japanese Pampas Grass or Susuki, is a well-known plant that marks the change of seasons, especially in autumn. With its tall, graceful stalks and soft plumes, it creates beautiful scenery across fields and mountains. In this article, you will learn about…
・Cultural and Seasonal Significance
・Natural Beauty and Lifecycle
・Popular Viewing Locations
Let’s take a closer look at the feathery plant together.
Profile of Susuki
Japanese Pampas Grass, or Susuki, is a hardy plant that grows throughout Japan, especially in open fields and mountains. It often reaches up to 1 or 2 meters in height and is admired for its soft, plume-like flowers that turn golden in autumn. In the past, people used Susuki for roofing, animal feed, and even for making paper. Since it grows in many different areas, it has become a key part of Japan’s natural environment. Now, let me give you some about the plant.
Cultural Significance
1. Relation with Kayabuki Houses
In the past, Japanese Pampas grass played a key role in building Kayabuki Houses, which are traditional thatched-roof homes found in rural Japan. People used the dried stalks of Susuki to make roofs because the material was strong and easy to find. These roofs provided insulation and protection from the weather while blending into the natural surroundings.
It offers Excellent Ventilation and Prevents Water from penetrating inside the building. That are the reason why the thatched roof architecture is suitable for the Japanese climate. Even today, some Kayabuki houses in places like Shirakawago and Miyama still show the deep connection between Susuki and traditional Japanese architecture, keeping the history alive.
2. Relation with Jugoya
Japanese Pampas grass is also important in the Jugoya mid-autumn moon-viewing festival. During this event, people arrange it in vases and place them with offerings like rice dumplings to celebrate the full moon. The thin, shimmering stalks also reflect the moonlight, making them the perfect symbol for the season.
Because the stem is hollow, Susuki was thought to be a home for gods. Its sharp edges were also believed to protect against evil spirits. Therefore, during the moon-viewing festival, Susuki is used to guard the harvest from evil and to pray for a good harvest next year. In this way, the plant has important rolls on Japanese culture.
Amazing Lifecycle
During Summer :
In summer, Susuki stands tall and green, preparing for its autumn change. Although it hasn’t yet grown its iconic plumes, the grass already moves gently in the wind, creating a peaceful green scene. During this time, Susuki shows its resilience, standing strong against the intense summer heat.
In Earlier Autumn (Around September) :
As September begins, Susuki starts to develop its famous silver-white plumes. The fields gradually turn into a sea of soft, fluffy grass, creating a breathtaking view against the clear autumn sky. This is when Susuki is at its most elegant, with the cooler temperatures adding to its beauty.
In Mid Autumn (Around November) :
By the time this Golden Hour Arrives, the grass has reached its full maturity and moves gently with the cool autumn wind. As temperatures drop, the golden hue of Susuki blends with the surrounding Fall Foliage, adding depth to the autumn landscape. The time is absolutely the best for enjoying its beauty.
At the End of Winter :
In winter, some areas like Sengokuhara hold Noyaki (野焼き), a controlled burning of the dried stalks of Japanese Pampas grass. This tradition helps clear the fields and encourages new growth for the following year. While the blackened fields may seem empty at first, they soon give way to new life in the spring. Noyaki emphasises the cycle of the Mother Nature.
Place to Visit
1. Shirakawa-go
In Shirakawa-go, Japanese Pampas grass plays a historical and cultural role, particularly in connection with the village’s famous Kayabuki thatched-roof houses. Traditionally, dried stalks of Susuki were used as roofing materials for these houses. Also, you should not forget to see the golden waves of Susuki with traditional Kayabuki houses.
2. Sengokuhara
The Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields in Hakone. is one of the best places to enjoy the beauty of Susuki. Each autumn, this area turns into a golden sea of Susuki, offering visitors scenic walking paths and breathtaking views. At the end of winter, it holds Noyaki , a controlled burning event, to preserve its lifecycle and beauty.
3. Sankeien Garden
Sankeien Garden in Yokohama is a convenient alternative viewing spot near the Greater Tokyo Area. The garden showcases not only the beauty of Susuki but also seasonal blooms like cherry blossoms, lotus flowers, and vibrant autumn leaves. The blend of Susuki swaying in the breeze with the garden’s changing landscape creates a peaceful atmosphere.
Conclusion
Japanese Pampas Grass is a strong symbol of Japan’s seasonal changes. From its green summer appearance to its golden autumn glow, Susuki shows the passing of time and the natural cycles of life. Visiting places where this grass grows allows you to connect with nature and enjoy the peaceful harmony it brings to the autumn landscape.
Even if you step outside and take a walk along the riverside, you’ll find Susuki swaying gently in the wind. The soft touch of the grasses guides you along a peaceful, leisurely path. Take a deep breath, let your heart relax, and embrace the tranquility. Your Golden Hour Begins Here.
