Iris Ohyama Participates in Sendai Aoba Festival, Unveiling Completed 'Gokoku Hojo' Float

Iris Ohyama Inc. (Headquarters: Sendai, Miyagi; President: Akihiro Ohyama) participated in the Yamaboko float procession of the 42nd Sendai Aoba Festival, held over two days on May 16-17, 2026. Following its debut in a plain wood state in 2025, the company unveiled the fully painted and completed 'Gokoku Hojo Yamaboko' float for the first time this year.

The name 'Gokoku Hojo Yamaboko' reflects a deep appreciation for the agriculture that sustains the Tohoku region, particularly rice farming, along with prayers for an abundant harvest. Since the Great East Japan Earthquake, Iris Ohyama has entered the rice polishing business as part of its reconstruction support efforts, working toward the revitalization of regional agriculture and a stable food supply. The newly completed float features a top 'Ten-mizuhiki' drapery designed like a picture scroll depicting traditional farming cycles—from plowing and tilling to harvesting and drying—while rice bales placed on the roof symbolize gratitude and pride in Tohoku's farming culture.

The project took approximately two years to complete, starting from initial concepts in May 2024. After its first appearance in 2025, the float was finished with a brilliant vermillion lacquer base, reminiscent of the corporate color. To prevent uneven coating, the process of 'apply after drying' was repeated dozens of times to achieve a glossy finish. Traditional artisans meticulously applied hand-beaten metalwork, and Westjin-ori weaving was used for the draperies to vividly represent ears of rice and sparrows. Iris Ohyama remains committed to regional revitalization, cultural heritage, and sustainable community building through active participation in Sendai's local traditions.