Visit to the United States by Mrs. KISHIDA Yuko, the Spouse of the Prime Minister - First Day (Summary)

On April 17 (April 16, local time), Mrs. KISHIDA Yuko, the spouse of the Prime Minister of Japan, visited Washington, D.C. at the invitation of First Lady Dr. Jill Biden. She visited the Sakura Matsuri – Japan Street Festival and the National Museum of Asian Art.

1. Visit to Sakura Matsuri - Japanese Street Festival

Mrs. Kishida visited Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival which showcases Japanese culture. She received an explanation from the organizer while observing the bustling festival. The organizer of the festival, the Japan-America Society of Washington D.C., explained that the festival has a long history, with this year marking its 61st anniversary, and has provided an opportunity for many U.S. citizens to experience Japanese culture and society. Mrs. Kishida expressed her respect for the efforts of those involved in the Festival to promote understanding of Japan, and her hope that the encounters with Japan at the Festival will lead many people to develop a stronger interest in Japan.

At the booths of the Mansfield Training Program and the JET Program, the organizer of the festival explained that the participants of these programs have contributed to the friendship and goodwill between Japan and the U.S. in various ways after their participation in the programs. Mrs. Kishida expressed her hope that the programs will lead to further development of exchanges between the two countries.

2. Visit to the National Museum of Asian Art

Mrs. Kishida visited the National Museum of Asian Art, which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year, and was briefed by the staff on the history of the museum and the 100th anniversary commemorative exhibition. She also visited the sites of Japanese art restoration.

Mrs. Kishida expressed her respect for the contributions of professionals in various fields who have contributed to the preservation, promotion, and dissemination of Japanese art, and her hope that the museum will continue to promote the excellence of Japanese art and foster mutual understanding between Japan and the U.S.