In 1970, a station employee at Oi Station on the JR Gotemba Line planted gourds as a sunshade for the waiting area, and this scene was featured on the cover of the then Japan National Railways timetable. The basic philosophy is "thoughtfulness and kindness by putting oneself in another’s position," along with the gourd’s traditional significance of "success, prosperity, and matchmaking." Aiming to create a healthy, bright, and comfortable town, and to expand circles of friendship and exchange both locally and internationally, this event is held to help nurture in the children who will lead the next generation an appreciation for the meaning of "hometown."