Involved in the Tourism Association Secretariat
Hokuryu Town Deputy Mayor Toshimasa Takahashi
He was the deputy mayor of Hokuryu Town and worked in tourism affairs as a member of the Commerce and Tourism Section of the Industry Division. As head of the Planning Division, he was in charge of the sunflower oil revival project, which led to the revival of sunflower oil. He also expanded the area of the Sunflower Village, making it the largest single sunflower field in Japan.
I was involved in the secretariat for eight years, from 1998 to 2005.
Every year when I went to travel agencies and agents in Sapporo to sell my products, I was always asked, "Is there anything new coming next year?" I racked my brains trying to think of something. Fortunately, we had the budget, and we were able to expand the fields and plant more crops as planned, which made for a perfect catchphrase.
The Sunflower Fireworks Festival was held at the suggestion of the section chief in 2000. The fireworks exploded so high above our heads that we were covered in sparks, creating a truly immersive experience. The festival coincided with the Asahikawa fireworks festival, and many fireworks fans from outside the town came to see it, making it an unexpectedly lively event.
Between fireworks, 120 students from Hokkaido Medical University in Tobetsu Town volunteered to perform the Yosakoi dance. It was a unique event. Every year, we try various things to make it even a little different, and I think we may have even done some crazy things.
To promote sunflower tourism, we participated in sales events such as the Sapporo Flower Festival, and often went out with Takamasa Hatta of Himawari Kobo, carrying Kumiki wooden blocks and potted sunflowers. We were very grateful to have Himawari Musume appear on stage to promote the project. We would also like to thank Toshihisa Yamada for his help with the potted sunflowers.
I have been involved with Sunflower Village in various ways, having volunteered to run the sunflower maze since 1990. I would like to continue to be involved with sunflowers, rice, agricultural practices, and the sunflower town of Hokuryu.
Lastly, during the festival, I was at Himawari no Sato every day, completely blackened and wearing a white tank top and straw hat. There were traffic jams, problems, and people getting injured, so I'd like to thank the staff, related organizations, and police for their help. I'd like to express my gratitude once again.
