Zama Sunflower Festival - A Summer Tradition in Zama City, Kanagawa

The Zama Sunflower Festival is a beloved summer tradition in Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, featuring approximately 550,000 sunflowers blooming along the Sagami River. The sunflower was designated as the city's official flower in 1969, and large-scale cultivation began in the early 1990s as a way to make effective use of idle farmland, becoming a cherished symbol of the community. The festival takes place at two venues—the Zama Venue and the Yotsuya Venue—covering a combined area of approximately 5.5 hectares with expansive fields of golden blooms. During the festival, elevated viewing platforms and photo spots are set up, allowing visitors to take in panoramic views of the sunflower fields. The event also features sunflower bouquet sales, booths selling local agricultural products and specialty goods, and food vendors, creating a warm, community-focused atmosphere. Family-friendly activities such as sweetfish catching experiences are also available, making this a popular summer event that attracts visitors of all ages from near and far.