2026 Spring Conferment of Decoration - President of the National Cherry Blossom Festival Diana Mayhew

On April 29, 2026 (Japan Time), the Government of Japan announced the 2026 Spring Conferment of Decorations on Foreign Nationals, with Diana Mayhew, President of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, being one of the recipients. In recognition of her contributions to promoting Japanese culture in the United States and strengthening the friendship between Japan and the United States, she will receive the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette.

• DECORATION: The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette
• SERVICE: Contributed to promoting Japanese culture in the United States and strengthening the friendship between Japan and the United States
• NAME: Diana Mayhew
• MAJOR TITLE: President of the National Cherry Blossom Festival
• ADDRESS (NATIONALITY): Maryland (United States of America)

Ms. Mayhew has led the National Cherry Blossom Festival as President for over 25 years, establishing the Festival as a vital platform for introducing Japanese culture in Washington, D.C. Furthermore, she has made extremely significant contributions to deepening the friendship and mutual understanding between Japan and the United States, through initiatives such as the 100th Anniversary Celebration of Japan’s Gift of Trees in 2012 and her support for the new gift of cherry blossom trees commemorating America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.