Guam’s culture took center stage in Japan as the Guam Visitors Bureau and a delegation joined a major festival in Kashiwa City.

GVB participated in the 2025 Kashiwa Matsuri (festival) to celebrate and strengthen Guam’s 34-year sister-city relationship with Kashiwa, Japan.

Mayor Hofmann took part in the festival’s opening ceremony, while Miss Guam’s Ashley Topasña joined the parade alongside CHamoru dance groups from Guam and Japan, showcasing traditional performances to hundreds of thousands in attendance.

"The friendship between Guam and Kashiwa is a wonderful 34-year relationship. Our student exchanges, tourism promotions, and participation in each other's events and activities is a sign of a healthy and strong partnership," said Mayor Hofmann.

GVB also held meetings with Kashiwa’s Mayor and the Kira Association to discuss future student exchanges, homestays, and sports partnerships, including a possible link between Guam’s Ko’Ko’ Road Race and Kashiwa events in 2026.

The city-to-city friendship turns 35 next year, with commemorative events planned in Guam.