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The 113th Nanyō Chrysanthemum Festival

This autumn, the historic “Nanyō Chrysanthemum Festival” celebrates its 113th year.

Official Website (Japanese): https://nanyo-kiku.jp/

About the Festival

Boasting the longest history and most refined chrysanthemum culture in Japan, the festival dates back to the early 17th century under the Uesugi clan. By the late Meiji and Taishō periods, chrysanthemum enthusiasts began displaying chrysanthemum dolls, with the first one exhibited in 1912 (Taishō 1).

Today it is one of Yamagata’s most beloved autumn traditions. During the festival, thousands of visitors come to admire the intricate chrysanthemum dolls—skills that have been passed down for more than a century—as well as the impressive cultivation techniques that produce the spectacular blooms.

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Venues & Dates

Miyauchi Venue (around Kumano Taisha Shrine)
October 3 (Fri) – October 14 (Tue), 2025
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
(Approx. 10 minutes by car from our inn)

Enjoy “Chrysanthemum Dolls × Flower Art” in harmony with the historic approach to Kumano Taisha Shrine, which has a history of over 1,200 years.

Flower Park Venue (Nanyō Central Flower Park)
October 15 (Wed) – November 5 (Wed), 2025
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
(Approx. 5 minutes by car from our inn)

Here you can experience the fragrance of chrysanthemums at competitive exhibitions and appreciate the traditional artistry of chrysanthemum dolls—the pride of Nanyō.

Photos shown are from past festivals.

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This Year’s Chrysanthemum Dolls

Theme: “Edo Kabuki – Musume Dōjōji & Shibaraku”
Two famous scenes from Edo-period Kabuki—“Musume Dōjōji” and “Shibaraku”—are recreated by Nanyō’s chrysanthemum doll artisans using their time-honored skills.

Make a stop on your autumn journey and discover these seasonal sights.

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Contact

Nanyō Chrysanthemum Festival Executive Committee (Nanyō City Commerce & Tourism Division)
TEL: +81-238-40-8295
Access: 10 minutes by car from JR Akayu Station. Parking available.
(Details may change; please confirm directly.)

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Discover Kumano Taisha Shrine – A Must-See with the Festival

Just 10 minutes by car from our inn—and one of the festival venues—stands Kumano Taisha Shrine.

Nicknamed “The Ise of Tōhoku,” this matchmaking shrine is one of Japan’s three great Kumano Shrines with over 1,200 years of history. Its main hall, quietly nestled in the forest, is the oldest thatched-roof structure in Yamagata Prefecture. At the entrance stands a giant ginkgo tree said to have been planted under the order of Minamoto no Yoshiie—designated a Natural Monument of Yamagata Prefecture.

Behind the main hall, look for the three hidden rabbits carved into the wood. Legend says that finding all three without asking anyone (or being told their locations) will make your wish come true. Only two are easy to spot—the third remains a mystery and a source of romance for visitors.

Kumano Taisha Shrine
3476-1 Miyauchi, Nanyō City
TEL: +81-238-47-7777
http://kumano-taisha.or.jp/

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Recommended Stops Near Kumano Taisha

• icho café – A stylish café beneath the giant ginkgo tree. Perfect for lunch or sweets during your visit.

• gelato En – Handmade gelato crafted with selected ingredients, next to the shrine.

• maaru Donut Stand – A specialty donut shop also located by the shrine.

Enjoy these local treats while exploring the historic shrine and the festival grounds.

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