Celebrating 50 Years: Phoenix, Arizona & Himeji, Japan

Established in 1976, Phoenix, Arizona and Himeji, Japan are celebrating the 50th anniversary of their Sister Cities relationship. The Phoenix Sister Cities Himeji Committee has strengthened ties between the two communities through student and teacher exchanges, cultural programs, and partnerships with the Japanese American community. A lasting symbol of this friendship is the Japanese Friendship Garden (Ro Ho En), a shared vision of Phoenix and Himeji that serves as a place of cultural appreciation and connection. Through these initiatives, the partnership has fostered mutual understanding and enduring friendships across the Pacific. Congratulations to Phoenix and Himeji on 50 years of building bridges between communities.