The City of Largo is proud of its 55 years of international friendship with Kami City, Japan, which was initiated in 1969 by Lions Club International. This marked the Lions first established Twin Club in Tosayamada, Japan, which merged with the town of Kahoku and the village of Monobe in 2006 to form the city of Kami, located on the Shikoku Island in southern Japan. The two cities followed the club’s lead and established a mutual partnership with one another. In the 55 years since the partnership was formalized with the signing of the covenant between the two cities, Largo and Kami have organized alternating visits every five years, sending delegates and visitors from each respective city to renew bonds, exchange gifts, and share cultures to further grow this relationship.
Every ten years, the City of Largo welcomes a delegation from Kami City who travel more than 7,000 miles to experience American culture and the warm Florida lifestyle. The first contingent of Japanese travelers arrived in 1971. The community helps make these visits memorable by hosting visitors in their homes during their stay in Largo. Visiting delegations have included government officials, including the mayor of Kami, council members, prefecture representatives, as well as Lions Club members, business owners, and residents. This cultural exchange includes a variety of activities that showcase Largo and the surrounding Tampa Bay area, with tours of City facilities, amenities such as parks and local businesses, fishing trips, and visits to local museums and other attractions.
On March 25, 2024, City of Largo Mayor Woody Brown and a group of business owners, service club members, and residents, will embark on a visit to our Sister City in Kami, Japan, to celebrate the 55th anniversary of this special international partnership. This visit will include a renewal of bonds, exchange of gifts, and a sharing of cultures as opportunities for economic development are also explored.
The enduring sister-city relationship has influenced progress in Kami City, a rural mountainous community of about 26,000 people, and evolved into a rich cultural, educational, economic, and recreational experience that has contributed to overall global development and understanding.
