Carmel welcomes sister city delegation from Kawachinagano, Japan for 30th Anniversary visit
CARMEL, Ind., May 14, 2025 - Mayor Sue Finkam and members of Carmel’s Sister Cities organization hosted an 11-member delegation from Carmel’s sister city, Kawachinagano, Osaka, Japan last week. Mayor Shuhei Nishino (pictured with Mayor Finkam) was accompanied by members of his city team and members of the Kawachinagano Friendship Association.
During their time in Carmel, the group took part in a busy itinerary, exploring Carmel’s many amenities and public services and exchanging valuable insights on city operations and consideration of business collaborations. Several City of Carmel teams including Streets, Police, Fire, the Carmel Redevelopment Commission and Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation provided comprehensive tours that highlighted the city’s infrastructure and public safety operations.
Beyond city government, the Kawachinagano delegation connected with key community partners. They enjoyed time with Carmel High School students in a Japanese language course, toured The Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts and learned about local history at the Carmel Clay Historical Society. A highlight of the visit was Mayor Nishino ringing the opening bell at the Carmel Farmers Market opening day on May 3, a beloved community tradition.
The timing of the delegation's visit coincided with significant milestones in Carmel's celebration of its Japanese connection. The city held its inaugural Cherry Blossom Festival, a vibrant event showcasing Japanese culture and a rededication ceremony for the Japanese Gardens. Currently undergoing construction, the garden signifies a continued commitment to this special relationship.
"It was such a pleasure to welcome Mayor Nishino and the delegation from Kawachinagano to Carmel," said Mayor Sue Finkam. "Our 30-year partnership has significantly enriched Carmel, promoting global learning, stewardship and stronger connections. We enjoyed learning about Kawachinagano and sharing the ways, unique and similar, in which we serve our communities.”
Our many Sister City relationships have led to strong connections, create economic opportunities, support student exchanges, academic collaborations and knowledge sharing.
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Mayor Sue Finkam and Mayor Shuhei Nishino with the Japanese delegation at the Carmel Farmers Market.
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About the City of Carmel, Indiana A thriving community acclaimed for its distinct amenities, robust business environment and excellent schools, the City of Carmel was named the #1 Best Place to Live in Indiana by Niche. Highly regarded by its residents as a safe community offering an exceptional quality of life, Carmel is home to an award-winning parks system and a wealth of cultural options. Carmel is built for big dreams. Find out more at www.carmel.in.gov.
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