Exchange Students from Tateshina Visit Oregon City

Since 1974, Oregon City and Tateshina, Japan have been Sister Cities, providing means to explore each other's cultures and customs. Being "sisters" has also provided an environment for long-lasting friendships to form and encourages travel between the two cities. Last week, Oregon City had the privilege of receiving 8 junior high exchange students, from Tateshina.

During the students' weeklong visit, they lived with volunteer host families in Oregon City. Throughout their stay, they visited the Clackamas Fire District, the End of the Oregon Trail, as well as City Hall and other attractions in the area. Three chaperones traveled with the students and joined them on their trip exploring Oregon City and Clackamas County.

"In the span of a week we watch many students go from shy and reserved to more secure in their ability to communicate and willingness to ask questions and participate in activities," says Beth Werber, Chairperson of the Oregon City Sister City Committee since 2002.

The City was presented with a gift from the students of Tateshina, including a letter from the Mayor of Tateshina and a painting, inspired by Katsushika Hokusai's "The Great Wave".

"It was such a pleasure meeting these junior high students, their chaperones, and their host families," said Tony Konkol, City Manager of Oregon City. "We look forward to their next visit to Oregon City in 2020."

View a photo album of the visit.