On Wednesday, October 15, Sequim School District proudly welcomed two very special guests from Shiso City, Japan; Deputy Mayor Kenji Tomita and Satoshi Ishihara of the Shiso Planning & Coordination Department. Traveling more than 5,000 miles, the delegates’ visit marked an important step in rekindling the long-standing sister city relationship between Sequim and Shiso City.
The day was filled with connection, culture, and celebration. Students from Greywolf Elementary greeted the visitors with heartfelt songs of welcome in Japanese. At Sequim Middle School, the delegation toured the Industrial Arts program, learning how Sequim students are developing hands-on skills that prepare them for the future. The visit continued at Sequim High School, where students showcased their talents with an energetic acrobatic performance, a joyful reminder of the creativity and enthusiasm that bridges communities, no matter the distance.
To honor the visiting delegation, the City of Sequim hosted a Gala of Welcome that evening. The celebration featured a stunning performance by the Sequim High School choir, whose harmonies echoed the spirit of international friendship. Representatives from the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe offered a warm and meaningful welcome, highlighting the shared values of respect and community that unite our regions. During the evening, the Shiso City delegates expressed their gratitude and reflected on the warmth and hospitality they experienced throughout their visit.
Sequim and Shiso have shared a Sister City bond for decades, with student and cultural exchanges enriching lives on both sides of the Pacific. The most recent in-person exchange took place in 2019, and both cities are eager to renew this meaningful connection.
Looking ahead, the partnership will continue to grow through a planned online exchange in January and a three-year cycle of in-person exchanges moving forward, ensuring that the friendship between Sequim and Shiso City remains as vibrant and enduring as ever.