On Saturday, May 29th, I visited Suigo Itako Ayame-en (Iris Garden).
This year, the "70th Suigo Itako Iris Festival" is being held from May 21st to June 20th.
The irises were said to be about 50% in bloom that day, but it was still a very impressive sight.
Being a Saturday, many people were enjoying the iris flowers.
In this iris garden, you can enjoy various colors of irises. There are said to be as many as 500 varieties and 1 million plants.
Hydrangeas are also planted next to the irises, allowing you to enjoy both flowers together.
Both the irises and hydrangeas were blooming beautifully and vibrantly.
This year, the popular Yomeiri-bune (bridal boat) and garden events will not be held.
Instead, you can take your time to appreciate the colorful flowers blooming by the water.
Normally, the best time to see the flowers is around June 10th, but it seems they are blooming earlier this year, so I think this weekend (around June 5th and 6th) might be the best time.
The Maekawa River also flows right next to the iris garden, and the sound of the water was very soothing.
It was a refreshing day where I could enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere of the riverside.
＜Iris Festival Information 1＞
On Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, the Ayame Musume (Iris Maidens) welcome visitors in the garden, and you can take photos with them.
＜Iris Festival Information 2＞
Rowboat rides are available daily during the festival.
＜Iris Festival Information 3＞
Temporary souvenir stalls will also be set up next to the iris garden.
*The photo shows a wind chimes with an Itako-gasa (Itako hat). The wind chimes are attached under the hat. Itako-gasa are only sold on Saturdays, Sundays, and Tuesdays.
＜Iris Festival Information 4＞
After making a donation to the Iris Festival Support Fund box in the garden, I received a lovely iris-patterned mask.
Text and Photos: Hashimoto (Community Collaboration Team)