Mr. James Matsumoto Conferred the Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays
A reception to celebrate the conferment of the Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays, onto Mr. James (Shinichiro) Matsumoto was held at the official residence of the Consul General of Japan in Toronto on June 20.
On April 29, the Government of Japan conferred the Order onto Mr. Matsumoto in recognition of his service to the Japanese and Japanese Canadian community and for his contributions toward promoting friendship between Japan and Canada. Mr. Matsumoto, along with his wife, Ms. Hisako Setoyama, travelled to Japan where on May 15 they attended the conferment ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Afterwards, he was given an audience with His Majesty the Emperor of Japan in Homeiden Hall of the Imperial Palace.
Mr. Matsumoto has served for many years as President of the Shinki-kai, the Association of Japanese Canadian Businesses and Professionals. He also has spearheaded the organization of many cultural and charity fundraising events which strengthened ties between Japan and Canada.
At the reception in Toronto, Consul General Eiji Yamamoto congratulated Mr. Matsumoto on his many accomplishments which led to this conferment. He also praised Ms. Setoyama for her unwavering support of her husband and his activities.
Mr. James Matsumoto and his wife Ms. Hisako Setoyama (centre)
pose with Consul General Eiji Yamamoto and Mrs. Yoshiko Yamamoto
