[Event Report] Congratulations on the sister city agreement! Mayor Souk of Canada visits Yuriage Port Morning Market

Hello everyone! This is the Yuriage Port Morning Market.

Today, March 20, 2026 (Friday, a national holiday), was a historic day for our city, Natori. Natori City and Souk City in British Columbia, Canada, with whom we have maintained exchanges for over 20 years, have finally signed a sister city agreement!

On this momentous day, Mayor Maya Teit of Souk City visited the Yuriage Port Morning Market. Here is a report on the exciting atmosphere of today's event!

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🥁 A powerful welcome awaits you with the Yuriage Taiko drums.

Upon the arrival of the mayor and his entourage, they were greeted with a powerful performance by the Yuriage Taiko Preservation Society! The morning market venue was instantly filled with a celebratory atmosphere. The Canadian visitors listened intently to the traditional sounds of Japan.

🎤 Greetings from Mayor Maya Tate

On stage, Mayor Maya Tate gave a speech. Her warm words, "I am happy that our 20-year bond has officially made us family (sisters) today," were met with loud applause from the audience.

🤝 Let's continue to cherish our 20-year bond.

The "Canada sign" in front of Maple Hall is also a symbol of the support received from Canada during the Great East Japan Earthquake. A commemorative photo was taken at this spot to celebrate the new beginnings of both cities. Everyone had the biggest smiles!

Afterwards, the mayor enjoyed some of the delicious food that the morning market is so proud of. We staff members were deeply moved when he enjoyed the taste of Natori and said, "It's delicious!"

lastly

From today, Natori City and Souk City are officially sister cities. We hope that this friendship, which transcends the sea, will continue for another 30, 50 years to come.

Thank you so much to everyone who came, and to everyone at Natori City Hall who helped with the preparations!

Thank you, Sooke! Welcome to our family!