Day 4: Governor Pence Notes Importance of Culture, Respect in Advancing Indiana-Japan Ties

Governor Mike Pence, First Lady Karen Pence and members of the Indiana delegation traveled to Kyoto to learn about Japanese history, tradition and culture.

“Japan’s traditions date back more than one thousand years, but are still evident across the country and in this ancient city,” said Pence. “Indiana’s efforts to attract Japan investment and jobs to the Hoosier State hinge on our ability to form individual relationships with government officials and business leaders. Understanding the rich history and culture of this country is not only enriching but plays a key role as we look to strengthen our relationship with Japan.”

The Governor, First Lady and delegation toured Sanjusangen-do, a Buddhist temple which houses 1,001 wooden statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. The delegation then traveled to Heian-Jingu, a shrine modeled after the Imperial Court Palace of the Heian period and built to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the founding of Kyoto in 1985.

In addition to touring these historic sites, Governor Pence and Mrs. Pence are engaging in the East Asian ritual of gift giving, which remains an important tradition in today’s Japanese business protocol. Throughout the weeklong jobs and economic development mission, the Governor and First Lady are presenting gifts with Indiana ties to high-ranking Japanese business leaders.

“As we meet with executives of Japanese companies with Indiana operations or with those considering future opportunities to establish facilities in Indiana, I’m proud to leave behind a small piece of the Hoosier State as a token of gratitude and a tangible reminder of Indiana’s hardworking and hospitable roots,” said Pence.

The Governor is presenting wooden plates and bowls produced by Madison-based Chapman Woodturning Inc. Crafted by artisan Gary Chapman, the pieces are hand crafted from local fallen and discarded trees of Indiana forests.

Mrs. Pence is presenting silk scarves with a watercolor print of Indiana’s official state flower, the peony. The First Lady painted the original watercolor used as the design. She will also present flags from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

These gifts were purchased through private donations to the Indiana Economic Development Foundation.

In the evening, the Indiana delegation traveled by train to Nagoya in preparation of the Governor’s business meetings with Aisin, Toyota Industries Corporation, Toyota Motor Corporation and Toyota Tsusho Corporation tomorrow.