Essay from Mr. Takehiko Ichino

It was five years ago that I visited Walla Walla City. I decided to participate in the program because my old classmate, Chairperson Matsumoto, recommended it and it is also because I am a calligraphy teacher and he wanted me to promote Japanese culture. I was anxious and unsure about going abroad for a long period of time; it was a long trip of over 9 hours. When I saw Walla Walla City from the sky, it looked like a desert and I was amazed at its size. When we arrived, we learned that it was a field of wheat that would be replaced by greenery in spring. I received warm hospitality at my host family. I was worried that I would not be able to communicate in the language, but the local people helped me out, etc. so I was not inconvenienced. I was overwhelmed by the sheer scale of everything. It was a memory I will never forget for the rest of my life, and it broadened my horizons once again. I am happy that the exchange with Walla Walla City has been going on for 50 years, and I hope it will continue in the future.