The "Owani Onsen Azalea Festival", which boasts 15,000 red, white, yellow, pink, purple, and colorful azaleas, opened on May 24 at Chausuyama Park in Owani Town. On the same day, full bloom was also declared.

The azaleas of Chausuyama Park began in 1966 with the first year students of Owani Junior High School planting trees to commemorate their entrance. Trees have been planted every year since then, and it has now become a famous spot for azaleas, which counts more than 15,000 40 species.

It is said that this year's azaleas are one of the five most blooming flowers in history so far, such as how they are colored and how the flowers open. Especially in the year when the difference in color became clearer like this year, it seems that one of the reasons is that the winter snow melted quickly. Owani also has the tradition that "the azaleas also bloom well when the cherry blossoms bloom well".

Kayo stage and band performances are held in the park during the period. In addition, there are various stalls such as yakisoba made from locally grown Owani hot spring sprouts. There is also a tea room where you can enjoy matcha and Japanese sweets while looking out over Mt. Iwaki.

According to Mr. Takataka Sakamoto, Vice Chairman of Owani Onsen Tourism Association, over 40 years of history, more and more families have planted azaleas over their second and third generations. "The festival we grew up in a town called Owani. I want to continue to cherish it," he said.

Azalea flowers are in full bloom for about a week from full bloom. The festival is until June 1st.