Red spider lilies
along the banks of Yakachi River

Nankichi Niimi is a beloved for his heartwarming stories, such as Gon, the Little Fox, Buying Mittens, and Grandfather’s Lamp, and lived near Nishio City's Yakachi River.
In 1990, locals remembered how Nankichi often walked along the Yakachi River, and began their enormous project of turning the banks into a stunning red tapestry with beautiful red spider lilies in his memory. In autumn, three million flowers dye approximately 1.5 kilometers of the banks a vibrant red color from east to west. Some say it may even be the largest blooming of red spider lilies in Japan. Come feel Nankichi and his little fox Gon among the wonderful flowers.

Related events

Nankichi Niimi picture story street show
Enjoy the retro storytelling method of paper props telling stories from the back of a bicycle.
• Performer: The Nankichi Niimi Snail Story Society
• Dates and times: From 10:30 am and 1:30 pm on Sat, Sep 21–Mon, Sep 23 (national holiday); Sat, Sep 28; and Sun, Sep 29
• Location: Outdoor rest area, Niimi Nankichi Memorial Museum

Everyone's Nankichi Exhibit
This local effort seeks to connect all through the power of art and culture.
• Date: Thu, Sep 26–Sun, Oct 6
• Location: Clacity

Red Spider Lily Wedding and Bride's Procession
• Dates: Sun, Sep 22 and Sat, Sep 28
• Location: Niimi Nankichi Memorial Museum stage and Yakachi Riverbank

Hana no Hikari Project
• Dates: Fri, Sep 27–Sun, Sep 29