It's fun! December 16 Nishi Ward Candle Art 2023

　On Saturday, December 16th, "Nishi Ward Candle Art 2023" was held at the International Exchange Zone Plaza Plaza in Pacifico-yokohama Plaza.
　"Nishi Ward Candle Art" was a one-night candle event held since 2008, with the motif candles in the shape of Nishi Ward's mascot character "Nishimaro-chan" and Hikone character "Hikonyan" and "Message Candle" drawn by elementary school studenｔ elementary school students in Nishi Ward.
　At the opening ceremony, we concluded a Memorandum of Understanding on Friendship Exchange with Nishi Ward in 2015. Mr. Yamagishi, Deputy Director of the Tourism and Culture Strategy Department of Hikone City Hall, and Mr. Kimura, Chairman of the Hikone Tourism Association, spoke at the opening ceremony. In addition, "Hikonyan", which has fans all over the country, also appeared on the stage, and also appeared with "Nishimaro-chan" at the photo session held afterwards, greatly enlivening the venue.
　On the day of the event, the warmth of the out-of-season was blessed with the weather, and everyone who came to enjoy a fantastic winter night.
　I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have made an effort to hold the event and everyone in elementary school studenｔ who colored the venue with "Message Candle".

December 16, 2023 Kenji Kikuchi, Director General of Nishi