The Bridge between Japan and Panama

The country of Panama is a strategic air and sea entry point into important areas of Central and South America. In order to develop strong relations with the emerging nations of Central and South America, it is clear that Japan and the rest of Asia must establish a healthy business relationship with Panama. This year Panama will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Panama Canal and the 160th anniversary of the Panama Railroad. There were many Japanese men who learned from their experience in Panama 160 years ago and also 100 years ago who greatly contributed to the modernization of Japan. And there are still those who strive to unite Japan and Panama together for the development of the two countries. On this website, while focusing on those men, we will explore the history of the relationship between Japan and Panama and their continued development as nations in the 21st century. “A Golden Horse” which binds Panama and Japan, developed from railroad to shipping and aviation over a period of 160 years. Let's promote A Golden Horse of the 21st Century while supplying information about Japan and Panama.

Panama, which has the image of a canal country, flourished as an important trade route during the beginning of the 16th century, constructed a transcontinental railroad during the middle of the 18th century, and built the canal in the beginning of the 20th century. I'm so interested in the history of Panama and its unexpectedly intimate relationship to Japan. The publication of the book A Golden Horse of the 21st Century, the first written by a Panamanian author to be published in Japan, provides an excellent opportunity to discuss the nation of Panama through this website.

Shuji Shimoarachi
One-time Japanese Ambassador to Panama

Christopher Colombus reached Panama during his third expedition in 1498 soon after discovering the American continent in 1492. Balboa reached the Pacific coast and discovered the isthmus area. This was a turning point in Panama's development as the preferred route for transporting Inca treasures and South American gold and silver to Europe.

At the present time the capital, Panama City is a modern city with clusters of first class hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, casinos and bars. Panama is not only a strategic transportation hub, but also a habitat for various birds, animals and plants. It is said to be the last unexplored region of Central America and a place of rich natural resources. It also has many historical buildings and five UNESCO Culture and World Heritage sites. Panama, which is placed between two oceans, has many exotic beaches and islands. We can enjoy water sports, such as fishing, surfing, scuba diving, and yachting to our heart's content. A well-known product is “Panama Geisha Coffee” which is called the best speciality coffee. Today, we can experience “a melting pot of races and cultures” in Panama, influenced by the culture of aboriginals and the colonial period.