Back in 1994, the City of Carmel embarked on a journey that would forever change its cultural landscape.
With the establishment of its first Sister City relationship with Kawachinagano, Osaka, Japan, Carmel opened its heart to a world of shared experiences and deepening bonds. The decision was made after Kawachinagano’s Friendship City Research Group toured Indiana and found Carmel’s environment, abundant nature and educational interests to be strikingly similar to its own.
This blossoming relationship saw further growth in 1998 when Carmel High School and Seikyo Gakuen School became sister schools. Students from both sides experienced the enriching adventure of living away from home, fostering a profound understanding and appreciation for each other’s cultures.
The partnership continued to flourish, culminating in the creation of a Japanese Garden in Carmel in 2007. Nestled behind City Hall, the garden boasts a traditional Sukiya gate, constructed with authentic materials from Japan and Indiana limestone that was shipped to Japan and engraved with inscriptions for the gate. Remarkably, the gate was assembled using special hand tools, without the use of modern nails, screws, brackets or hinges.
In a joint effort between Kawachinagano Rotary Club and Carmel Rotary Club, a tea gazebo was built in 2010 to commemorate the Sister City relationship and celebrate the founding anniversary of the Japanese Rotary group. This charming addition has become a symbol of unity and friendship.
Fast-forward to 2021, when Carmel took a bold step to enhance the garden, tripling its size and extending it all the way to Carmel Drive. To mark the completion of this ambitious project, the inaugural Cherry Blossom Festival will take place at One Civic Square on May 4, 2025, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. This event, presented by Kawachinagano Carmel Sister Cities Inc. in partnership with the City of Carmel, promises to be a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture and the 30-year relationship between the two communities. With free admission, attendees can expect delightful stage performances, children’s activities in a special tent, and a plethora of traditional Japanese cultural experiences.
The festival will also welcome the esteemed Japanese Garden designer and creator, Mr. Hoichi Kurisu, commissioned for the garden’s redesign and expansion. Joining Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam in attendance will be the mayor of Kawachinagano City, Osaka, accompanied by his delegation, adding an extra layer of significance to the event.
Festival organizer Kumiko Kay Brunson enthusiastically invites everyone to join in the festivities. “All are welcome,” Brunson says. “We hope everyone from Carmel will come and enjoy the reopening of the Kawachinagano Japanese Garden. Guests can enjoy the tastes of Japan as well as dances, Japanese tea ceremony, origami, kendama, and other traditional cultural events. It will be a great day to spend with your friends and family.”
With the Cherry Blossom Festival on the horizon, Carmel is poised to embrace its rich cultural connections and celebrate the enduring friendship with Kawachinagano.
