Strengthening a 64-Year Sister City Bond – Mayor Johnston Meets the Takayama Delegation

Denver Sister Cities was honored to host a delegation from Takayama, Japan, Denver’s second oldest and cherished sister city relationships. This gathering marked another chapter in the 64-year-long friendship that began in 1960. The delegation, including students from Takayama Technical High School, was warmly received by Denver Mayor Mike Johnston. Along with community leaders and representatives from Denver Human Rights & Community Partnerships, Denver Economic Development and Opportunity, Denver Sister Cities International and its Takayama Committee.

Takayama’s Yatai Lights Up Denver’s Parade of Lights

0:00 /1:24 1× This year’s 50th Annual 9News Parade of Lights was a night of celebration, culture and friendship as the historic Yatai float, gifted by Takayama, Japan, in 1964, returned to Denver’s streets. For the first time, the Yatai, a symbol of Takayama’s centuries-old

Denver Sister Cities NetworkSacha Francois Heppell

A Tradition of Exchange and Friendship

During the meeting, Mayor Johnston reflected on the enduring relationship between Denver and Takayama, emphasizing the cultural, educational, and professional exchanges that have enriched both communities over the decades. From musical performances to student exchanges, this partnership has grown into a dynamic model of international cooperation.

The delegation brought a heartfelt message from Takayama’s Mayor Tanaka, inviting Mayor Johnston to join in celebrating the 65th anniversary of the sister city relationship next year. This invitation represents the continuity of this historic partnership and a commitment to deepening ties between the two cities.

Celebrating the Takayama Yatai Delegation: Reception at the New Consul General of Japan’s Home in Denver

Strengthening Ties and Building the Future On December 9th, the delegation met with Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, further strengthening the ties between our cities. That evening, Consul General Okajima graciously hosted a reception for the Takayama delegation and Denver sister-city officials, reaffirming our shared commitment to nurturing and expanding this

Denver Sister Cities NetworkSacha Francois Heppell

A Special Spotlight on the Yatai: The Takayama Float

One of the highlights of the delegation visit was their participation along with Takayama Technical High School students in Denver's iconic 9NEWS Parade of Lights, where they showcased the restored Japanese Yatai (festival float). Originally brought to Denver in 1964, this intricate float symbolizes the artistry and tradition of Takayama. Restored by students in 2019, it was displayed publicly for the first time during the parade, captivating the record-breaking crowd of 350,000 attendees.

The students from Takayama Technical High School shared the story of the float’s restoration, underscoring the significance of preserving cultural heritage and international understanding. Their passionate speech left a lasting impression to continue the relationship for generations to come.

"Keep building the friendship, learning and growing together, and pass this bond on to future generations. May our friendship last forever."
-Ms. Yuina Tanaka, Takayama Technical High School

Building Toward the Future

Mayor Johnston expressed his gratitude for the thoughtful omiyage (gifts) presented by the delegation, a hallmark of Japanese hospitality and respect. In turn, he highlighted the importance of this relationship, noting its role in fostering mutual understanding, respect, and opportunity. He praised the work of the Denver Takayama Sister Cities Committee and DSCI, whose efforts have kept this relationship thriving for over six decades.

Takayama’s Yatai will be a highlight of Denver’s Parade of Lights

For the first time ever, a beautiful yatai, or float, from Denver’s sister city in Japan, Takayama, will participate in the annual Parade of Lights through downtown Denver past the City and County Building, which is broadcast by KUSA 9News. (The Parade starts at 6 pm Saturday Dec. 7.

Denver Sister Cities NetworkGil Asakawa

The meeting was a reminder of the impact of sister city relationships. From high school exchanges to visits by cultural and professional delegations, Denver and Takayama have created a bridge that transcends distance, language, and time. This legacy continues to inspire both cities to learn from one another and grow together. Here's to many more years of friendship with Takayama!