Hiroshima Prefecture

Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Since 2000, Hiroshima has been independently carrying out the Dogwood 2001 Project. Citizens have raised approximately 4,000 dogwood seeds and saplings donated by the American people, promoting Japanese-American friendship and exchange. In November 2015, 70 Friendship Blossoms dogwood trees were planted at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, marking the 70th Anniversary of the atomic bombing, symbolizing hope for everlasting peace. 

Tottori Prefecture

Tottori City, Togo-ko Hawai Rinkai Prefectural Park and other locations

In 2008, Tottori Prefecture established a memorandum of understanding regarding international friendship with Vermont and has since been engaging activities such as youth exchange. Municipalities within the prefecture have established sister relations with regions in the U.S.: Yurihama Town and Hawaii County, Hawaii; Daisen Town and the City of Temecula, California; and Nichinan Town and the City of Scotts Valley, California. In March 2015, 67 Friendship Blossoms dogwood trees were planted in Togo-ko Hawai Rinkai Prefectural Park and the surrounding area.

Yamaguchi Prefecture

Iwakuni City, Kizuna Baseball Stadium

After more than 60 years, the relationship between the U.S. military base and local citizens in Iwakuni continues to flourish and is firmly rooted in mutual understanding and respect for each other's similarities and differences. The planting of Friendship Blossoms dogwood trees will symbolize the long-standing relationship and remind viewers of the strong bond between the U.S. and Japan. In spring 2017, 50 Friendship Blossoms dogwood trees will be planted at a new baseball stadium called "KIZUNA", located at Atago-Cho. The stadium will be openly shared by both local Japanese citizens, U.S. military personnel, and their dependents.