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

Monday, July 14, 2025

In Hokuryu Town, Hokkaido, the sunflowers cultivated by honorary resident Ryoji Kikura as a "prayer for peace" are in full bloom. The vibrant sunflowers blooming across the field on the west side of the Itaya Public Housing bring a ray of peace and hope to the hearts of those who see them. We present 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 Citizen Ryoji Kikura

The yellow carpet that stretches out to the west of the Itaya Public Housing

In the field to the west of the Itaya Public Housing, the "Sunflowers with Prayers (Wishes) for Peace" lovingly cultivated by Ryoji Kikura (an honorary citizen of Hokuryu Town) are blooming magnificently once again this year.

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

These graceful sunflowers bloom powerfully and energetically in the dazzling sunlight.

Ryoji Kikura's message: "Food is life"

Huang Cang sent the following message:

Kikura sends the message, "We farmers cherish the idea that 'food is life,' and as families and communities we work together, using our hands, skills and hearts to continue producing safe food. I believe that this is what will lead to the flowers of peace blooming like sunflowers in full bloom!"

Sunflowers that bloom as rays of peace and hope

Sunflowers bloom beautifully and powerfully towards 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
Sunflowers that shine with peace and hope
Sunflowers that shine with peace and hope

We hope to convey the message of world peace and the precious spirit of "food is life."
With boundless love, gratitude and prayers to the great Himawari!

With Isao Hoshiba
With Isao Hoshiba

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