HONOLULU – Mayor Rick Blangiardi will travel to Japan from July 30 to August 7, 2025, to participate in events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. The Mayor has been invited to attend memorial ceremonies and cultural programs that honor the lives lost and reaffirm a shared commitment to peace and reconciliation.

This will be Mayor Blangiardi’s first international trip since taking office in January 2021.

“It is a profound honor to represent the City and County of Honolulu at this solemn occasion,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “The devastation caused by the atomic bombing of Hiroshima 80 years ago continues to remind the world of the importance of peace, compassion, and understanding between nations and people. This visit is an opportunity to pay our respect, strengthen international friendships, and stand in solidarity with our Japanese brothers and sisters in remembrance and hope.”

The City and County of Honolulu maintains a strong and enduring relationship with Japan, including formal sister city ties with several Japanese cities. Hiroshima is Honolulu’s oldest sister city, and the City is proud to honor that legacy during this meaningful milestone. Mayor Blangiardi will visit Shibuya, Honolulu’s newest sister city, to build on the growing relationship between the two dynamic cities and reaffirm Honolulu’s commitment to international friendship, cultural exchange, and mutual prosperity.

While in Japan, Mayor Blangiardi will also conduct meetings with government and tourism partners in his role as the City’s ambassador, focused on reinvigorating Japanese travel to O‘ahu and promoting Honolulu as a safe, welcoming, and world-class destination.

During Mayor Blangiardi’s international visit, Managing Director Mike Formby will assume the role of Acting Mayor.

—PAU—