Osaka and Chicago Celebrating 50 Years in the Garden of the Phoenix
On August 3, 2023, two pine trees were planted in the Garden of the Phoenix in Jackson Park to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the sister cities relationship between the City of Osaka and the City of Chicago.
The Mayor of Osaka Hideyuki Yokoyama made Chicago his first international trip of his administration, reaffirming Osaka's and Chicago's 50-year sister city relationship.
“In Japanese culture, the pine tree is known to represent longevity, good fortune and steadfastness, like the relationship between the people of Osaka and Chicago. We will forever appreciate our relationship with Chicago, and this garden as a symbol of our friendship.”
– Hideyuki Yokoyama, Mayor of Osaka
Photo: Mayor Yokoyama along with Rosa Escareño, the General Superintendent & CEO of the Chicago Park District planted the trees, along with representatives of the people of Osaka and Chicago | Photo Credit: UMIIMU, INC.
“Over 130 years ago, the people of Chicago committed to maintain this site as a place for visitors to learn about Japan and experience Japanese culture. We are so thankful for the many contributions that the people of Osaka have made to this garden beginning the gift of the Osaka Gate in 1993 for the 20th Anniversary of our sister cities relationship. This garden’s beauty is a true reflection of our mutual respect and care for one another.”
- Rosa Escareño, the General Superintendent & CEO of the Chicago Park District
Photo: View of the Chicago Osaka Pine Trees with the Museum of Science and Industry in the background | Photo Credit: UMIIMU, INC.
“These two pines were selected to represent our two cities and our commitment to each other. Like our relationship, they will grow stronger and taller, and their roots will grow deeper and wider.”
- Karen Szyjka, Garden of the Phoenix Manager, Chicago Park District
The mission of sister cities reflects a belief in the power of personal connections. In 1956, President Eisenhower established Sister Cities International to create global relationships based on cultural, educational, information and trade exchanges to develop lifelong friendships that provide prosperity and peace through person-to-person “citizen diplomacy.”
The Chicago-Osaka Sister City relationship began in 1973 under Mayor Richard J. Daley. Today, it is one of 29 Chicago sister cities relationships in the world, including Kyiv, Paris, Moscow, Shanghai, Accra, and Mexico City. Programs include exchange activities in various fields such as business, education, arts, and culture.
While in Chicago, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Mayor Yokoyama reaffirmed the sister city agreement between Chicago and Osaka at the Chicago Cultural Center, and toasted to more years of a meaningful and enduring relationship.
Photo: The Chicago Osaka Pine Trees in the Garden of the Phoenix | Photo Credit: UMIIMU, INC.
