Continuing the Friendship of Baileng Weir: Kanazawa Mayor Visits Taichung City Hall for the Fourth Time

Taichung City Hall welcomed a familiar and esteemed guest today as Kanazawa Mayor Takuya Murayama led a delegation for his fourth visit to the city. Representing Mayor Lu Shiow-yen, Deputy Mayor Huang Kuo-jung warmly received Mayor Murayama, underscoring the enduring and deepening relationship between Taichung and Kanazawa, Japan. This recurring visit highlights the strong mutual respect and shared vision for continued collaboration between the two cities.

The historical connection between Taichung and Kanazawa, rooted in the engineering expertise of Kanazawa-born technician Isao Gison, who aided in the construction of the Baileng Weir, serves as a foundational pillar for their ongoing relationship. This vital water conservancy project significantly contributed to Taichung's agricultural development and continues to symbolize the deep ties between the regions. Mayor Murayama's consistent annual visits since 2023 demonstrate his personal commitment to nurturing this friendship and exploring new avenues for cooperation.

Beyond historical ties, the discussions focused on expanding exchanges in vibrant sectors such as jazz music and the arts. With Taichung's acclaimed Green River Art Museum, designed by renowned architect Kazuyo Sejima—the same architect behind Kanazawa's famous 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art—there is a clear opportunity for a sister-museum relationship. Such a partnership would foster significant artistic and cultural exchange, enriching both cities' creative landscapes. Mayor Murayama's expressed interest in promoting jazz music festivals in Kanazawa also opens doors for collaboration with Taichung's internationally recognized Jazz Music Festival.

Deputy Mayor Huang noted Mayor Murayama's personal talent for playing the transverse flute, recalling a memorable performance during a previous visit. He expressed anticipation for future musical exchanges, perhaps even a saxophone performance in return, symbolizing the harmonious blend of cultures through music. This visit reaffirms Taichung's commitment to international friendship and cultural diplomacy, showcasing how historical connections can evolve into dynamic partnerships that benefit the citizens of both cities. The emphasis on cultural and artistic collaboration reflects a modern approach to city diplomacy, moving beyond purely economic or infrastructural ties to build deeper, more meaningful connections.