Mr.Kazuya Akamatsu

Since 1990, I have participated in exchange programs with Walla Walla City, Washington, USA, through the following three connections, but I have been away for a while. This year, however, I will be in charge of international exchange in the Tourism Exchange Department, and I am excited to be involved in the exchange program with Walla Walla City again, and I look forward to working with the members of the International Sister City Committee on the 50th anniversary of our sister city affiliation. I am also looking forward to working with the members of the International Sister City Committee on the 50th anniversary of our sister city affiliation.

Now I would like to introduce three connections between me and Walla Walla City.

1. My wife went to Walla Walla City on a long-term exchange program

My wife (Kaori Akamatsu) studied at Walla Walla High School as a long-term exchange student for one year, and after graduating from her local high school, she flew back to Walla Walla City to study at the community college while staying with a host family.

2. Honeymoon trip to Walla Walla City

I visited Walla Walla City on my honeymoon because of this relationship. Even though we were newlyweds, we chose to stay at a homestay, and the homestay family treated us like family, making it a truly memorable trip.

3. Going to Walla Walla City for a Taiko Performance

The year Igot married, the TambaSasayama Taiko drumming group "Kojo-gumi" was established. In 1997, while I was working as a member  of the first group, we were able to hold "Kojo-gumi Concerts" in Walla  Walla, Idaho and other cities thanks to the excellent management of  Chairman, Del Kennedy (deceased). We visited Walla Walla City three  times in total for taiko performances.