Bishop Isao Ito, Chair of the Univers Foundation and a senior leader of Shinnyo-en (one of Japan’s most prominent Buddhist organizations) visited Honolulu Mayor Richard Blangiardi on February 25 during a trip to Hawaiʻi. Bishop Ito was in town to participate in the Social Work in Hawaii Seminar, a collaborative academic initiative between the University… Continue reading February 25, 2026 – Bishop Ito visits Mayor Blangiardi
The Honolulu Ocean Safety Department hosted a delegation of lifeguards from Okinawa, Japan, from February 9–13, 2026, in a visit that reflected the deep and enduring ties between Hawaiʻi and Okinawa. During their five days on Oʻahu, the delegation worked closely with the department’s Training Unit, participating in hands-on exercises and gaining familiarity with ocean… Continue reading February 13, 2026 – Ocean Safety partners with Okinawa lifeguards
Consul General Dr. K. Srikar Reddy’s visit to Honolulu Hale signals renewed momentum in the city’s relationship with India. On January 22, 2026, Consul General Dr. K. Srikar Reddy visited Honolulu Hale alongside Dr. Raj Kumar, bringing with him the possibility of a meaningful new chapter in Honolulu’s international partnerships. The meeting centered on the… Continue reading January 22, 2026 – Mayor Blangiardi meets with Consul General Dr. K. Srikar Reddy
Mayor Rick Blangiardi met with Hideaki Chotoku, the newly appointed Consul General of Japan in Honolulu, continuing the strong diplomatic relationship between Hawaii and Japan. Consul General Chotoku has been actively engaged in Hawaii’s community since his arrival, participating in significant commemorative events and strengthening bilateral relations between the United States and Japan. His role… Continue reading December 15, 2025 – Mayor Blangiardi meets with new Consul General of Japan
Chief of Staff Andy Sugg welcomed Dr. Hiroya Sugano of Shizuoka, Japan, at Honolulu Hale during his visit to Hawaii for the Pearl Harbor memorial events taking place December 5-10. Dr. Sugano came to express his gratitude to the city and people of Honolulu for their continued support of U.S.-Japan reconciliation efforts. For decades, Dr.… Continue reading December 10, 2025 – Chief of Staff meets Dr. Hiroya Sugano, peace advocate (Blackened Canteen Ceremony)
Honolulu Sister City Connection to Bruyères, France Lives On Through New Film Project In November 2025, a delegation from Honolulu embarked on a powerful 20-day journey through France and Italy, filming scenes for an upcoming documentary that celebrates the legacy of the 100th Infantry Battalion and honors Honolulu’s enduring sister city relationship with Bruyères, France:… Continue reading November 2025 – Honolulu Residents Document Historic Journey in France and Italy for “The 100TH, Seeds of Aloha” Documentary
City and County of Honolulu Official Press Release HONOLULU — The City and County of Honolulu and Shonai, Japan, officially signed a Friendship City Agreement today during a ceremony at the Mission Memorial Auditorium, celebrating the long-standing bond between the two communities and their shared commitment to promoting educational, cultural, and economic exchange. Honolulu Mayor… Continue reading November 3, 2025 – City signs Friendship City Agreement with Shonai, Japan
Mayor Blangiardi participated and read a proclamation in the 114th National Day Reception on October 6th, invited by Director General Jerry S. Chang from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Honolulu (TECO).
The Principal and International Office director from Kanto Daiichi School in Edogawa-ku (Sister City with Honolulu since 2020) visited Chief of Staff Andy Sugg on September 24, 2025. Kanto Daiichi has 2,500 students (8th, 9th, 10th grades). They are building a program with Island Pacific Academy in Kapolei that will be launched in 2026. They… Continue reading September 24, 2025 – Kanto Daiichi School (Edogawa-ku) visits Chief of Staff
City and County of Honolulu Official Press Release HONOLULU – The Mayor’s Office of Culture and the Arts (MOCA), in partnership with the Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design, proudly announces the opening of Crafting Connection: Doris Duke’s Moroccan Commissions on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at… Continue reading September 5, 2025 – Shangri La exhibition at Honolulu Hale celebrates cultural bonds between Rabat and Honolulu
