There have been many chrysanthemum fans in Nihonmatsu since the period when it was known as the Nihonmatsu Domain, and Kiku Ningyo (chrysanthemum dolls) have been used to decorate the city since the early Showa period. Exhibition of the figures of “Nihonmatsu Kiku Ningyo” began to be held at Kasumiga-jo Castle Park in 1955, and exhibitions are now held annually from early October to mid-November. The venue of Fukushima Prefecture’s Kasumiga-jo Castle Park contains the ruins of Nihonmatsu Castle and is a national designated landmark. Your eyes will be drawn to the many vivid chrysanthemum blossoms including the Kiku Ningyo carefully created by artisans and the famous Senrinzaki. During the exhibition period, there is also a fair and product exhibits. 

In addition, the Nihonmatsu Mum Festival is held at the same time. ""Mum"" is another name for chrysanthemum, and usually refers to chrysanthemum varieties cultivated through selective breeding in the West. In recent years, the flowers have been gradually becoming popular for the Chrysanthemum Festival (the Choyo festival), Mother’s Day, weddings, and other occasions, and chic mum varieties in various colours and shapes are being cultivated in Nihonmatsu City. You can experience the charms of chrysanthemums and mums, which have had a traditional reputation until now, in new ways including exhibits of works using various mums, workshops, attractions, and more. 

The 2022 event is scheduled for October 8 to November 13.