Hello!
This is Suzuki Hidetaka from the Agriculture and Livestock Department.
With the refreshing breezes of early summer blowing through, it's the perfect season for going out. This time, we'll introduce the big early summer event at "Ark Tategamori" in Ichinoseki City, Iwate Prefecture, a truly relaxing spot that can only be found at this time of year, and the charm of the beautiful lavender fields that are currently in full bloom.
1. First, check this out! Overview of the 9th Tategamori Herb Festa 2026
At Ark Kangamori, a very popular event is held every year as early summer arrives. Let's start with an overview of the event.
- Event period: Saturday, June 13, 2026 to Sunday, July 5, 2026
- This year's theme: "Food" and "Herbs"
During this three-week period, visitors can enjoy herbs with all five senses, with special programs mainly scheduled for weekends. There are plenty of delicious events, such as a "Food Marche (June 21)" featuring limited-time menus using herbs, and a "Free Tasting (June 27th & 28th *Limited to those with paid admission to the area)" where you can sample the proud "Tategamori Kogen Pork" grilled over charcoal. In addition, there are plans for concerts where you can immerse yourself in music amidst nature, yoga, and hands-on workshops such as sausage making, and the entire farm will be enveloped in the refreshing energy of herbs.
2. The profound charm of the lavender fields in the "Fragrant Breeze Garden" that satisfies all five senses.
The star of the Herb Festival, and the highlight of this time of year, is undoubtedly the vast flower garden...lavender fieldis.
As you take a step inside, what unfolds before your eyes isA carpet of pale purple as far as the eye can see.The contrast between the blue sky, the lush green of the pasture, and the seemingly endless fields of lavender is breathtakingly beautiful. With every breeze, a gentle, sweet, yet refreshing and elegant fragrance washes over you like waves, bringing you deep relaxation that makes you forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life in an instant.
The lavender fields at Ark Kangamori offer more than just a beautiful view; they also provide a luxurious experience that can only be found here.
Here's an update on the current state of the lavender fields.
The buds have grown quite a bit, and we can see a few flowers starting to appear. We can also enjoy their fragrance now.
In addition to lavender, we also plant herbs in the lavender fields.
This is catmint. During Golden Week, it bloomed with such beautiful flowers that it could be mistaken for lavender. I pruned it back, and new flower buds have started to grow. I think it will bloom beautifully!
This is anise hyssop. The flowers have just started to bloom. It has a refreshing, sweet fragrance!
This is lemon balm. It doesn't look like it's going to bloom anytime soon.
There are many other wonderful herbs besides lavender!
Please come to the Herb Festa and enjoy herbs with all your senses!
Hidetaka Suzuki, Agricultural Department
