Key points

On October 22, 2026, Atsumi Harasawa, mayor of Yokohama City, met with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the Prime Minister's Official Residence for the first time, confirming cooperation between the city and the national government regarding the International Horticultural Expo (Expo 2027) scheduled to be held in Yokohama in March 2027. Prime Minister Takaichi encouraged Mayor Harasawa, saying, "I've been supporting you; I'm glad," and pledged cooperation toward the success of the Expo. Mayor Harasawa was first elected on October 18, 2026, in the Yokohama mayoral election. A former lawyer, she campaigned on compliance with laws and strengthening the financial base. The Expo is a top-class international exhibition recognized by the International Association of Horticultural Producers and the Bureau International des Expositions, and will be held from March 19 to September 26, 2027, at the former Kamiseya Communication Facility in Yokohama. [1] [3] [4]

Atsumi Harasawa's First Election as Yokohama Mayor and Background

Atsumi Harasawa was first elected mayor of Yokohama on October 18, 2026. Although an independent, she received support from multiple political parties including the Liberal Democratic Party, Japan Innovation Party, Democratic Party for the People, and local organizations of the Komeito party, while also expanding support among nonpartisan voters. A former lawyer specializing in legal compliance, she gained support by addressing issues such as workplace harassment and strengthening the financial foundation. She defeated six candidates, including former mayor Takeharu Yamanaka, aiming to reform city administration. Harasawa also has experience serving as an outside director for several companies and expressed determination to restore smiles among city employees and advance the stagnant city government. [1]

On October 22, 2026, Mayor Harasawa met with Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building, confirming cooperation on women's empowerment, child-rearing support, and disaster prevention measures. Harasawa requested cooperation for the International Horticultural Expo to be held in Yokohama, and Governor Koike expressed support, stating that cooperation as part of the metropolitan area would benefit both citizens of Tokyo and Yokohama. Both officials plan to deepen their collaboration going forward. The Yokohama mayoral election was a re-election following the resignation of the previous mayor due to workplace harassment issues. Mayor Harasawa took office at the city hall for the first time on October 20, 2026. [2]

First Meeting with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Confirmation of Cooperation

On October 22, 2026, Atsumi Harasawa, mayor of Yokohama, met with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the Prime Minister's Official Residence for the first time. They confirmed cooperation between the city and the national government regarding the International Horticultural Expo (Expo 2027) to be held in Yokohama in March 2027. Prime Minister Takaichi said about the Expo, "Let's work together and do our best as a nation," and encouraged Mayor Harasawa with words such as, "Take care of yourself and do your best," and "I've been supporting you; I'm glad." Mayor Harasawa expressed respect for Prime Minister Takaichi as a female leader and spoke of her own determination to be a leader who combines kindness. [1]

Mayor Harasawa indicated plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications to unite efforts and promote the Expo. As the host city, Yokohama intends to work on attracting visitors and raising public enthusiasm. The Expo is an important international event for Yokohama, demonstrating a stance of cooperation between the national government and local governments to ensure its success. The collaboration between the two parties will continue to be closely watched. Following her first day in office, Mayor Harasawa has also strengthened regional cooperation, including meetings with the Tokyo governor. Expectations are high for her future city administration. [1]

Overview and Significance of the 2027 International Horticultural Expo (Expo 2027)

The 2027 International Horticultural Expo, also known as Yokohama Green Expo, will be held at the former Kamiseya Communication Facility in Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, from March 19 to September 26, 2027. The expansive venue covers approximately 100 hectares. It is a top-class (A1 category) international exhibition approved by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) and recognized by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE). More than 10 million visitors are expected. The Expo aims to promote horticulture and landscaping, enrich lives with flowers and greenery, stimulate the regional economy, and address social issues. [3] [4]

The basic plan for the Expo was announced in January 2023, aiming to solve social challenges and promote horticultural culture. Its themes include harmony and coexistence with nature, creation of new industries, and solving problems through collaboration, all targeting the realization of a sustainable society. Historically, Yokohama has been a hub for the import and export of horticultural plants, underscoring the significance of hosting the event there. The Expo is an international event that will showcase Japan's model of a green city to the world. Efforts will continue to invite exhibitors and visitors and to build momentum for the event. [4]