CITY OF ENCINITAS SISTER CITY VISIT! 

AMAKUSA, JAPAN

The Sister City program’s mission is to build mutual understanding, respect, and goodwill between Encinitas and its Sister Cities. This is achieved by organizing programs that enhance cultural and economic connections.

Encinitas, California shares a Sister City relationship with Amakusa, Japan (formerly Hondo), established in 1988 following a major triathlon event. The program fosters cultural exchange, with delegations of students, nurses, firefighters, leaders, and government officials traveling between the two cities. Participants engage with counterparts to learn about each other’s culture—Encinitas representatives experiencing Japanese traditions, and Amakusa visitors exploring Californian and American life.