By MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network Editorial Department, compiled and reported by Liao Qiyu
 

May and June mark the season when irises bloom across Japan, and Ibaraki Prefecture celebrates this with the “Itako Ayame Festival.” In addition to seeing over five hundred varieties and one million irises swaying in full bloom, the area also hosts a series of traditional dance performances and the “Bride Boat” event where local brides set off on a boat — offering not just floral sights but a deep dive into Japanese culture. The festival attracts over 800,000 visitors every year.

The Itako Ayame Festival in Ibaraki Prefecture boasts a long tradition, having been held since 1952 — over 60 years ago. It originally began when locals who loved irises and Japanese irises started placing flowers in beer bottles, and over time evolved into a renowned local festival. At the Itako Ayame Park, you can see the greatest variety of irises in all of Japan — 500 types, with up to one million blooms in vibrant purples, whites, pinks, blues, and other colors.

During the festival, besides admiring the beautiful iris fields from the shore, you can also take a ride on a sabani boat to enjoy the scenery from the water, offering a unique view of the blossoms. There are also many activities that can only be experienced in the water town, such as the “Bride Boat,” iris dances, and more. Each year, over 800,000 visitors come to enjoy the charm of the water town. The 2015 Itako Ayame Festival was held from May 23 to June 28, with the best viewing period around June 10.