Business Development and Support Division

Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutsui and Governor Tokihiro Nakamura of Ehime Prefecture prepare to participate in the “Kagamiwari” ceremony, a tradition in Japanese culture that symbolizes a new beginning.

Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutsui hosted Ehime Governor Tokihiro Nakamura and over 300 visitors representing officials from Ehime Prefectural Government, Uwajima City, Hawaii and Ehime youth baseball teams and parents, and Hawaii’s legislative leaders to the 10th Anniversary Sister-State Reception at Washington Place on November 22, 2013.

Following the reaffirmation signing of the Hawaii-Ehime Sister State agreement on November 21, 2013, the reception was an auspicious occasion to share cultural performances and recognize individuals from Hawaii and Ehime who have steadfastly nurtured the sister-state relationship for the past ten years.

Kumu Hula Frank Hewitt opened the gala with a traditional Hawaiian chant. Students from Iolani School performed a variety of hula favorites bringing smiles to visitors from Ehime. The evening culminated with a dramatic taiko performance by Kenny Endo’s Taiko Ensemble.

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