#Japan #Agriculture #Okayama #Okayama University #Chrysanthemum Festival

Okayama University Triumphs at Chrysanthemum Festival

Okayama University, located in the heart of Okayama City, recently celebrated a remarkable achievement at the 68th Okayama Korakuen Chrysanthemum Festival, held from October 19 to November 9, 2025. The event, known for its rich history since 1958, brings together chrysanthemum enthusiasts from across the region to showcase their exceptional floral creations.

The star of this year's festival was the Flower Control Unit from the Faculty of Agriculture's Applied Plant Science course. Their meticulously cultivated chrysanthemums garnered widespread recognition, winning prestigious accolades such as the Japan Tourism Promotion Association Chairman's Award and the Okayama Chamber of Commerce and Industry President's Award in the large chrysanthemum division. Additionally, they received the Okayama Governor's Award and the Festival Chairman’s Award for their exquisite five-pot display.

The Flower Control Unit started the cultivation process in July, skillfully shaping their chrysanthemums into compact forms known as Fukusuke, measuring under 50cm tall. By thoughtfully selecting a combination of colorful varieties, the students and faculty aimed to create a stunning visual impact. Their successful effort not only reflects their hard work but also their collective commitment to excellence in agricultural sciences.

Students like Yuki Uchida from the Graduate School of Environmental and Life Sciences shared their pride in the project, noting the reduced issues with flower rotting this year, which resulted in particularly beautiful blooms. Uchida emphasized the seriousness and dedication displayed by their research team, stating, “I hope we can continue to produce excellent works in the following years.”

The Okayama Korakuen Chrysanthemum Festival is not just an event but a testament to the enduring passion of local growers, attracting spectators and participants alike. The festival features an impressive array of chrysanthemum art, celebrating the beauty and diversity of this traditional flower. Such events foster a sense of community, bringing together individuals who share a love for horticulture and nature.

With this recent success, Okayama University seeks to further enhance its standing as a regional hub for distinctive research in agricultural practices. The university remains steadfast in its mission to contribute to the local community and engage in innovative scientific research that aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As a recognized research institution, Okayama University actively promotes partnerships that blend academia, industry, and government initiatives to foster advancements in various sectors. With an eye towards the future, the university aims to accelerate its efforts in building a sustainable and innovative ecosystem that benefits not just the local community, but also the global landscape.

In closing, the achievements of the Flower Control Unit at the Okayama Korakuen Chrysanthemum Festival is a proud moment for Okayama University, showcasing the remarkable talent of its students and faculty. The university encourages continued exploration and excellence in agricultural sciences, asserting its place as a leading research institution in Japan.

This victory at the chrysanthemum festival exemplifies the core values of Okayama University: commitment to quality education, sustainable practices, and enhancement of community engagement. With such dedication, the university looks ahead with optimism, confident in its ability to nurture future innovations in plant sciences and beyond.