Great Purple Emperor

Sasakia charonda

A large butterfly whose males shine blue-purple, chosen as Japan's national butterfly. Larvae feed on Japanese hackberry leaves, and adults gather at sap on oaks. It depends on healthy woodland, such as the Heirinji temple forest in Saitama.

Scientific name: Sasakia charonda
Group: Insects
Prefectures: Saitama
Japanese Red List (Ministry of the Environment): Near ThreatenedMinistry of the Environment Red List 2020
When to see: July, August
日本語: オオムラサキ
简体中文: 大紫蛱蝶

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Natural Monuments related to the Great Purple Emperor

National Natural Monument

Insects・BirdsHabitat / breeding site

Heirinji Temple Precinct Forest

Sasakia charonda, Turdus chrysolaus, Picus awokera, Ficedula narcissina, Tarsiger cyanurus

Saitama

Where to see the Great Purple Emperor

Facilities whose official websites show this animal on display. Exhibits can change, so check each facility's latest information before you go.

Conservation centre

Hokuto City Oomurasaki Center

Yamanashi

Official website Exhibit source

Checked 2026-10-15

When to see

Best timeSeason

In Hokuto, Yamanashi, adults fly from July to August. Around the Hokuto Oomurasaki Center, the best time to observe them is early to late July.

Exhibit source

Map

Markers show designated habitats and breeding sites.

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Frequently asked questions

Yes. The Great Purple Emperor is protected as a Natural Monument (1 national and 0 prefectural designations). Each designated site is listed under "Natural Monuments related to the Great Purple Emperor" on this page.

The Great Purple Emperor is designated as a species without a fixed area and lives in places such as Saitama.

You can see the Great Purple Emperor at Hokuto City Oomurasaki Center, among others (confirmed on each facility's official website on 2026-10-15).

The Great Purple Emperor is mainly seen in July, August. In Hokuto, Yamanashi, adults fly from July to August. Around the Hokuto Oomurasaki Center, the best time to observe them is early to late July.

The Great Purple Emperor is listed as "Near Threatened" in the Ministry of the Environment Red List 2020 (listed as オオムラサキ).