Colorado-Hokkaido Sister Byways event

JASC Executive Director Claudine Locascio was honored to serve on a planning committee recognizing the newest “sister” relationship between Colorado and Japan. The committee hosted an event this month to celebrate the fact that Colorado Scenic & Historic Byways Council and Scenic Byways Hokkaido Promotion Council have established a “Sister Byways” relationship. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed in Hokkaido last month, with several Colorado representatives attending in person. Last week our celebratory event was held in Golden, along the Lariat Loop Scenic Byway. Representatives from state and local governments along with Consul General of Japan in Denver Hiroyuki Okajima were all in attendance. Representatives from Hokkaido joined virtually live from Hokkaido.

The purpose of establishing such a relationship is so that Colorado and Hokkaido can work together to revitalize scenic byways, create joint initiatives, and create guidelines with the goal of contributing to tourism and preservation of cultural heritage. JASC member Courtney Ozaki performed at the event through her Japanese Arts Network, showcasing a beautiful trio of taiko, shamisen and Japanese flute shinobue. JASC Member Misaki Restaurant (Stanley Marketplace) catered a beautiful meal for all attendees.

We look forward to continuing to shepherd this unique and beautiful relationship into the future.