It has been 30 years since Otaru and Dunedin in New Zealand established a sister city relationship.
During Ushio Festival period last week, the delegation of about 20 people including the Mayor visited Otaru to celebrate the 30th anniversary of our friendship.
Some members of the delegation came to Otaru for the first time, and they enjoyed their stay in their sister city that has many geographical and historical similarities to their city, Dunedin.
They participated in Ushio Dance procession that's the highlight of the festival on the 24th, and enjoyed fireworks display on the 25th as well as official commemoration functions.
Otaru and Dunedin have had various cultural and human exchanges for the past 30 years.
There are many cities in Japan that have a sister city in New Zealand, but the friendship between Otaru and Dunedin that have been uninterrupted and unchanged for the past 30 years is wonderful and worth highly appreciated.
Dunedin Delegation dancing in Ushio Dance Parade
They were dancing in Happi coat.
