Key Facts
• Sunflowers in Kumano River Town, Wakayama, are now in full bloom (as of August 22).
• The flowers commemorate 14 years since the Kii Peninsula floods.
• Approximately 10 hectares of sunflowers were planted on July 1, 2025.
• 100,000 sunflowers are currently about 70% in bloom.
• The Kumano River Flower Tourism Promotion Council organizes the annual planting.
• A sunflower festival is scheduled for August 30, 4 PM to 8 PM.
• Festival highlights include light displays, projection mapping, and glowing balloons.
• Additional activities: pedal car races, eating contests, candy toss, and food trucks.
• Admission to the festival is free.
• Contact: Kumano River Administrative Bureau, Resident Life Division (0735-44-0301).
Summary
In Kumano River Town, Wakayama, sunflowers planted to honor the 14th anniversary of the Kii Peninsula floods are now in full bloom, creating a vibrant yellow carpet. The Kumano River Flower Tourism Promotion Council has cultivated approximately 10 hectares of sunflowers, with 100,000 flowers currently 70% in bloom. Despite challenges from extreme heat, the flowers are thriving and expected to remain in bloom through August. On August 30, the town will host a free sunflower festival featuring light displays, projection mapping, glowing balloons, and various activities such as pedal car races and food trucks. The event aims to celebrate recovery, preserve memories of the disaster, and promote community revitalization.
