A delegation from Philadelphia’s Japanese Sister City, Kobe City, visited officials from Philadelphia’s Park & Recreation Department and the Office of the City Representative. They were also joined by leadership from the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia and the Shofuso Garden in Philadelphia. The delegation from Japan consisted of leaders from Kobe’s municipal Japanese Garden, Sorakuen. Both delegations look forward to supporting the garden maintenance of Philadelphia’s Shofuso garden.

Kobe City is expanding its commitment to Philadelphia as a Sister City in the future and plans to send a city council delegation to Philadelphia sometime in 2017 or 2018. Photos of the experience were captured by The Office of the City Representative’s staff photographer, Tony Webb.