2024 Walla Walla Sister City Project ⑤
This morning, we had a courtesy visit to Tamba Sasayama City, followed by a walking tour of the castle town area. In the afternoon, they experienced the Forest Adventure! I joined the courtesy visit and assisted one student as a translator for his medical check up. In the afternoon, John participated as an interpreter for the instructor at the Forest Adventure.
The three-day weekend flew by, and this week, the visiting delegation has a packed schedule. The morning courtesy visit included the vice mayor, the superintendent, and the chairperson of the sister city committee, who exchanged messages with the representatives of the visiting delegation before taking a commemorative photo on Walla Walla Street in front of the city hall.
After that, one student and one chaperone took a separate route for the student's medical appointment and I accompanied them as a translator. Thankfully, it wasn't serious, and after a simple procedure, we were able to join the delegation's schedule.
While waiting in the waiting room for the payment after the medical appointment, a man sitting next to me asked, "Where are they from?" When I replied, "They are from Walla Walla. They are here for the sister city project," it turned out that he had hosted a student many years ago! Although it was a long time ago, he reflected, said "I see. It's nice to see the program is still going on."
Through the connections of the guests during their stay and these little encounters, I felt the deep bond between our city and its sister city, Walla Walla.
During this time, the visiting delegation explored the castle town, and we met up with them for lunch. We gathered at the Ojiyama Pottery center and enjoyed "Off the Record" hamburgers at the park. Thankfully, the rain held off, allowing us to relax and enjoy our time.
We had a bit of time before the bus transfer, so the group was able to explore Kawaramachi for a short time. However, the students spent most of their time at Hakutoya, happily choosing souvenirs for themselves and their families. Although they look quite mature, these moments reminded me that they are still high school students, showing a cute side.
In the afternoon at the Forest Adventure, everyone seemed to enjoy the zip line! (The image from the Forest Adventure is from the Walla Walla Sister City Committee's Facebook page.)
Tomorrow, they will all go to Nara! We are only providing transportation to the city hall. I hope the weather holds up...