Japanese Students Experience Macon’s Cherry Blossom Festival in Sister City Exchange

A group of 18 students from Sakurai High School in Kurobe, Japan, visited Macon-Bibb County last week to experience the cherry blossoms and the city’s annual celebrations.

Macon and Kurobe have been sister cities since May 10, 1977, engaging in annual exchanges, including student visits, official delegations, and a medical exchange program. YKK organized the visit, with local families hosting students during their stay.

Public Relations Specialists Edna Adams and Olivia Walter were among the hosts.

“It was my family’s first time hosting a student and it certainly won’t be the last,” said Adams. “Not only was our student, Mahi, such a gem, but we got to learn so much from her, too. It was such a unique cultural experience, and it was the perfect week to show off our beautiful city.”

John Roberts, General Manager of Rhythm and Rally, also hosted a student.

“Welcoming Haruka into our home was a deeply gratifying experience for Olivia and me. It was a joy to share our house and our daily rhythm with a young traveler, introducing her to our routines and customs,” said Roberts. “Equally as meaningful was watching my daughter open her world to new perspectives—learning about Haruka’s culture through shared meals and small moments throughout our time together that bridged the gap between our lives.”

During their visit, the students performed a cultural dance and held a tea ceremony for their host families at City Hall. They also took a guided tour of Downtown with Visit Macon before performing at the Cherry Blossom Festival Opening Ceremony.