Kamisu, Japan: Our Sister City

What is a Sister City?

The idea of a sister city was developed by President Eisenhower in 1956 as a way to connect cities, around the world, on a personal level. Our mission is to be committed to promoting global communities through the exchange of arts and culture while developing bonds between the two sister cities of Eureka and Kamisu. For more information, explore the Sister Cities website.

History

The City of Eureka began a sister city relationship with Kamisu City in 1991. Former Mayor Nancy Flemming found a letter sent by then, Kamisu Mayor Numata, and a partnership was cultivated. According to former Mayor Flemming, when the agreement was first made, both cities were very similar: small cities, same sized port, and off the main highway. Today, nearly 30 years later, Kamisu has grown quite a bit but has maintained a relationship with Eureka nonetheless.

Eureka and Kamisu have exchanged more than just letters over the years. Both cities have participated in cultural exchanges starting in 1991, when the partnership was first started, up to the most recent trip in 2015, when Eureka locals Holly and Harvey II visited Kamisu to celebrate Kamisu's 10th anniversary of their merging cities.

Most recently, on February 5, 2019, the City of Eureka announced the dedication of "Kamisu Park." The park is located on the southbound stretch of the highway at the corner of Q Street. The City of Kamisu graciously donated cherry trees to represent the friendship between cities. Mayor Susan Seaman and Mayor Susumu Ishida, of Kamisu, joined together to carry on the tradition of friendship through a sister city partnership that has lasted 30 years.

About Kamisu

A short 55 miles east of Tokyo resides the 95,000 residents of Kamisu City. With a thriving seaport and rich culture, Kamisu readily welcomes many visitors, offering free Japanese classes and many beautiful attractions.