Kagoshima City which has long prospered as a centre of exchange with Asia and other countries is located in the south of Japan with a population of about approximately 600,000.
Kagoshima City has the infrastructure to support domestic and international exchange, including Kagoshima Chuo Station where is the southern terminus of the Shinkansen bullet train line that connects the Japanese archipelago, a port where large cruise ships can dock, and Kagoshima Airport with international flights.
As the capital of Kagoshima Prefecture, Kagoshima City has a concentration of higher urban functions such as administration, education, and culture. In addition, the city is rich in nature as symbolised by the majestic active volcano Sakurajima spreading out in front of the city area and the calm Kinko Bay.
Kagoshima City formed a sister city affiliation with Perth City, Western Australia in April 1974, and has deepened exchanges through activities such as mutual dispatches of student delegations.
There is a train car designed with the image of Perth City in Kagoshima City Tram which is one of the important transportation modes for its citizens.
Kagoshima City has sent more than 200 students to Perth City under the ‘Youth Wings Program’. During COVID-19, online exchange has been conducted, and from 24 July to 3 August this year, 10 high school students were sent to Perth City for the first time in four years for a school exchange and homestay program.
Though there was some apprehension about the first face-to-face exchange after a long time, thanks to the support of Perth City and many others involved, the students were warmly welcomed by the local people and were able to make invaluable memories through their various experiences.
In 2024, the two cities will celebrate the 50th anniversary of their sister city relationship.
We hope that the friendship between the two cities will deepen further on this occasion.
