Whitehorse and Ushiku Celebrate 40th Sister City Anniversary

WHITEHORSE – The City of Whitehorse is pleased to welcome 12 youth ambassadors and their two chaperones from Ushiku, Japan as we celebrate the 40th anniversary of our Sister City relationship with Ushiku.

The Ushiku delegation arrived in Whitehorse on Thursday, July 24 and is visiting Whitehorse until Sunday, August 3 as part of the annual Sister City Exchange Program.

Under the program, every other year a group of Ushiku youth visits Whitehorse to experience Canadian and Yukon culture, with a group of Whitehorse youth travelling to Japan the following year to experience Ushiku culture. Host families in each city open their homes to the visitors, sharing meals and providing an opportunity for cultural exchange.

2025 marks the 40th anniversary of the program, which has seen many long-term friendships and connections made between residents of both communities.

During this year’s exchange, Ushiku ambassadors will learn about Whitehorse culture and history through activities like voyageur canoeing, arctic sports, hiking, campfire cooking and visits to local museums. Local youth from host families will also reconnect with their home community as they join their guests for the scheduled activities each day.

Quotes:

“Our Sister City Exchange Program with Ushiku is a great opportunity to learn from one another and take in new cultural experiences. Welcome to our Ushiku visitors and thank you to all the host families who are sharing their homes, meals and family activities. I’m certain this will be a valuable experience for all.”

– Mayor Kirk Cameron

For more information:
Sam McKay
Acting Manager, Strategic Communications
City of Whitehorse
[email protected]
867-689-7405