Autumn chrysanthemum festivals to be held in Hirosaki and Yokohama

Various chrysanthemum festivals are scheduled to take place across Japan this autumn, featuring large-scale floral art and traditional displays.

In Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, the Hirosaki Castle Chrysanthemum and Autumn Leaves Festival is set to begin on October 30 and run until November 8. The event features a major floral art installation titled ‘Kinshu Byakko’ (Golden Autumn White Tiger) at the Hirosaki Castle Botanical Garden. The sculpture incorporates traditional Tsugaru bamboo basketry techniques and was created in collaboration with local students and floral artist Yoshie Abe.

In Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, Sankeien Garden will host its annual Chrysanthemum Exhibition from October 31 to November 23. The exhibition, which has continued since 1964, will showcase approximately 240 varieties of chrysanthemums, including large blooms and traditional Edo-style varieties. The event includes educational talks by masters from the Yokohama Chrysanthemum Society and special floral arrangements by designer Michiko Igarashi at the historic Tokoji Buddhist Hall.