Jun 11, 2015 - 1 min read

Tamana Iris Festival

A burst of spring color along the Takaseura River

Community writer

Tamana's famous irises bloom from late May to early June in the Takaseura River

In Kumamoto prefecture, the town of Tamana is known for its spring display of irises. Every year, from May to June, over 66,000 bulbs planted along the Takaseura River Waterfront Green Area open to reveal various shades of purple and white irises.

Walk over stone bridges and gaze at stone walls from the Edo period where old merchant houses remain surrounded by irises in shades of purple and white at this time of year.

There is a short boardwalk along the riverbed that visitors can follow and use to get a close-up view of the flowers. The site is wheelchair and stroller accessible as well. On weekends during the festival period, you can expect events and local stalls selling bento boxes and other festival foods.

During the event period, the grounds will be lit up from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm. On the first Saturday of June, a concert and Noh performance will be held to celebrate the main blooming period.