Kelowna will host its Japanese sister city’s mayor and a group of delegates June 6 to June 8.
Futoshi Ito, the mayor Kasugai, Japan and the delegation, which includes representatives from Kasugai’s city council, its chamber of commerce, sister city association, Chubu University and the Citizens’ Activity Support Centre, will meet with several local groups here and tour a number of facilities.
The visit will also includes cultural gatherings with members of the local Kelowna Kasugai Sister City Association, familiarization with Kelowna’s Cultural District and newly revitalized Bernard Avenue, a stop at the Farmers’ Market and some wine touring.
A group of delegates will also meet with city and Chamber of Commerce officials and tour a number of sites including The Dorchester retirement home, the H2O Adventure and Fitness Centre, Willowbridge Transitional Housing, City Hall and Kasugai Gardens.
“The last civic exchange visit to Kelowna was in 2008 and so much change has occurred here since then,” says Sandra Kochan, cultural services manager for Kelowna.
“The delegation has expressed its interest in seeing how communities can improve services and amenities for older residents. As Kelowna has so much to offer to support active, healthy lifestyles for citizens of all ages, we’re looking forward to sharing this with our guests.”
Kelowna and Kasugai have been sister cities since 1981, fostering a number of cultural exchanges and business ventures over the past 34 years.
The friendship between Kelowna and Kasugai is reflected in the beauty of Kasugai Gardens, a tranquil Japanese-inspired park located just east of City Hall.
