[Summer 2025] Peace Sunflowers Blooming in Hokuryu Town | Thoughts of Honorary Resident Ryoji Kikura

Monday, July 14, 2025

In Hokuryu Town, Hokkaido, the sunflowers grown by honorary resident Ryoji Kikura with a "prayer for peace" are in full bloom. The sunflowers blooming powerfully across the field on the west side of the Itaya public housing bring the light of peace and hope to the hearts of those who see them. We will introduce the beautiful sunflowers blooming towards the midsummer sun along with Kikura's precious message that "food is life."

[Summer 2025] Peace Sunflowers Blooming in Hokuryu Town | Thoughts of Honorary Resident Ryoji Kikura

A yellow carpet spreads out on the west side of the Itaya Public Housing

In the field to the west of the Itaya public housing, the "sunflowers filled with prayers (wishes) for peace" lovingly cultivated by Ryoji Kikura (honorary resident of Hokuryu Town) are blooming magnificently again this year.

Sunflowers blooming in the field to the west of the Itaya Public Housing
Sunflowers blooming in the field to the west of the Itaya Public Housing

Basking in the dazzling sunlight, the graceful sunflowers bloom with strength and energy.

Ryoji Kikura's message: "Food is life"

Huang Cang sent the following message:

Kikura sends the message, "As farmers, we cherish the idea that 'food is life' and, working together as families and communities, we use our hands, skills and hearts to continue to produce safe food. I believe that this is what will lead to the flower of peace blooming, like a sunflower in full bloom!"

Sunflowers bloom as a ray of peace and hope

Sunflowers bloom beautifully and powerfully toward the midsummer sun with prayers (wishes) for peace.

Ryoji Kikura's sunflower field, filled with prayers for peace
Ryoji Kikura's sunflower field, filled with prayers for peace
A shining sunflower of peace and hope
A shining sunflower of peace and hope

To convey the precious spirit of world peace and "food is life" to people,
With infinite love, gratitude and prayers to the great Himawari!

With Isao Hoshiba
With Isao Hoshiba

More Photos

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◇ ◇ Photography, editing and website management: Noboru Terauchi Writer: Ikuko Terauchi

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