About Us

   
To the people of the State of Hawaii and to the many who are visiting Hawaii from all over the world,

Happy New Year!

Through the various events I have attended this past year and the countless opportunities I have had to meet new people, I now share a better understanding of what shapes society here in Hawaii. As a Japanese person, I am humbled by the experiences and sacrifices of the Nikkei, the Japanese-Americans, who—following in the footsteps of their Issei ancestors—worked tirelessly to elevate their status in society, both in Hawaii and the United States, and who dedicated themselves to the development and growth of the local community, which has served to further strengthen the friendship and goodwill between Japan, Hawaii, and the United States.

Two-thousand eighteen was an especially significant year, as we celebrated the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants, or Gannenmono, to Hawaii. A number of events were held, with the help of many Japan-related organizations, and we were able to revisit history and pay tribute to the achievements of these early immigrants and their descendants, while being inspired by them for the future.

Last June, Their Imperial Highnesses Prince and Princess Akishino visited Hawaii. During their five-day stay, they attended many Gannenmono anniversary events, visited places of significance relating to Japanese-American history, and met with members of the local Japanese-American community. Thanks to everyone involved, the commemorative events were very successful, and it is my hope that this historic milestone will leave a lasting impression on the Japanese-American community here for decades to come.

This year, His Majesty Emperor Akihito will abdicate the throne on April 30, and His Imperial Highness Crown Prince Naruhito is expected to succeed him on May 1, hailing in the beginning of a new era. In March, Kabuki performances will be held for the first time in fifty-two years here in Hawaii. Japan will be hosting the 2019 Rugby World Cup, and gear up for the long-anticipated Summer Olympics and Paralympics which will be held in Tokyo in 2020. We, at the Consulate General of Japan, are looking forward to these exciting events and, with the help of each and every one of you, would like to continue our work to strengthen and promote the relationship and friendship between Hawaii and Japan.

I wish to extend my best wishes to all of you, and may 2019 bring you much happiness, continued good health, and prosperity!