May 2026

【2026. 5. 29】Yugawara Town Receives Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications' Award for Local Government International Exchange / 湯河原町が「第20回自治体国際交流表彰（総務大臣賞）」を受賞 ― 高齢社会に向けた日タイ連携が高く評価

Yugawara Town received the Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications' Award, the highest distinction in Japan’s Local Government International Exchange Awards. On May 29, 2026, an official ceremony held at the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications in Tokyo. The award recognizes outstanding international exchange initiatives between Japanese local governments and overseas partners that demonstrate innovation, sustainability, and tangible benefits for local communities. Alongside Yugawara, the cities of Rikuzentakata and Chigasaki were also honored this year. Yugawara was particularly recognized for building an extensive network of partnerships with municipalities, government agencies, universities, and civil society organizations across Thailand. Rather than relying solely on conventional sister-city relationships, the town has developed […]