On August 4, 1986, Grand Rapids officially established Ōmihachiman, Japan, as its very first international Sister City. Nestled on the scenic shores of Lake Biwa—Japan’s largest freshwater lake—Ōmihachiman shared immediate parallels with Grand Rapids. Both communities built their foundations along major freshwater bodies and developed rich historical roots in fine woodworking, furniture craftsmanship, and agriculture.

Over the decades, what began as a formal municipal pact grew into a deeply personal bridge between two cultures. Through continuous student exchanges, quilting collaborations, delegation visits, and collaborative ArtPrize installations, Grand Rapids and Ōmihachiman have kept their bond thriving for over forty years.

Sister city partnerships are designed to foster global peace, economic opportunity, and cultural appreciation. Here is how our cities collaborate:

• Cultural & Artistic Exchanges: Sharing art, local history, and collaborative exhibits to bridge communities across oceans.
• Educational & Youth Programs: Hosting student delegation visits, language programs, and homestays to give young people global perspectives.
• Economic & Civic Partnerships: Sharing best practices in urban planning, local business growth, sustainable tourism, and historic preservation.
• Community Engagement: Connecting local makers, artisans, and civic leaders through joint events and international volunteer projects.

Global Origins (1956): The Sister City movement was officially launched nationally by U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower to foster international diplomacy, cultural understanding, and economic ties between citizen-led groups post-WWII.

Ōmihachiman, Japan (1986): Became Grand Rapids' very first official Sister City, establishing deep historical connections anchored by shared ties to furniture craftsmanship, inland lake geography, and decades of student exchanges.

Bielsko-Biała, Poland (1991): Formed following the fall of the Iron Curtain, focusing on textile heritage, technological collaborations, and educational exchanges.

Ga District, Ghana (1994): Joined to connect West Michigan with West Africa, emphasizing cultural preservation, artisanal crafts, and healthcare/humanitarian efforts.

Zapopan, Mexico (2008): Established to celebrate shared arts, commerce, and the vibrant Mexican-American community in West Michigan.

Perugia, Italy (2014): Formed around mutual interests in music, culinary arts, historic preservation, and university partnerships.

Gangneung / Gangnam-gu, South Korea (2022): Expanded Grand Rapids' Asian network, building bridges through technology, global commerce, healthcare, and contemporary arts.

Vaughan, Ontario, Canada (2026): Designated as the newest partner city to strengthen cross-border North American trade, logistics, and regional economic ties.

While exploring the region, you will inevitably run into adorable, round-bellied ceramic statues standing guard outside shops, gardens, and homes. These represent the legendary Tanuki, or Japanese Raccoon Dogs. Deeply rooted in Japanese folklore, Tanuki are mythological tricksters and shape-shifters believed to bring good fortune, prosperity, and protection. With their big straw hats (to protect from bad weather) and friendly expressions, spotting these iconic statues throughout Ōmihachiman is one of the most magical parts of walking through the town. It reminds me of the Studio Ghibli movie Pom Poko.