Yamaguchi Prefecture has a long history and rich culture, and has established deep exchange relationships with many cities and schools both domestically and internationally. These exchanges play an important role in regional development and fostering international understanding. In particular, Yamaguchi Prefecture has been actively promoting various sister city affiliations and school exchange programs to encourage international communication. Through these initiatives, the citizens and students of Yamaguchi Prefecture have valuable opportunities to understand different cultures and broaden their global perspectives.
For example, universities and high schools in Yamaguchi Prefecture have partnered with overseas universities and schools, offering study abroad programs and student exchange opportunities that provide young people with international experiences. Through these exchanges, Yamaguchi Prefecture has built an international network and is promoting the region's appeal to the world. Additionally, through cultural exchanges, citizens and students in Yamaguchi Prefecture deepen their understanding of other cultures and societies, nurturing empathy and friendship.
Such international exchanges are essential for Yamaguchi Prefecture in its efforts to develop regional communities and nurture individuals who can thrive in a global society. Further development of these initiatives is anticipated in the future.
1. Shimonoseki City and Busan Metropolitan City (South Korea)
Shimonoseki City and Busan Metropolitan City established a sister city relationship in 1976, building a deep bond through a long history of interaction. The two cities are geographically close, separated only by the Kanmon Straits and the Korea Strait, and have shared trade and cultural ties since ancient times. This partnership focuses on various initiatives in culture, economy, and tourism. For instance, student exchange programs provide younger generations with opportunities to learn about different cultures. The annual cultural festival showcases Korean traditional music and dance alongside Japanese culture, introducing the heritage of both nations to a broader audience. Additionally, efforts to promote trade using international ferries and mutual tourism marketing have strengthened economic connections. Through these exchanges, the cities symbolize friendship within the Asia-Pacific region.
2. Shimonoseki City and Ferris City (California, USA)
Shimonoseki City formed a sister city partnership with Ferris City in California in 1963, a pioneering example of Japan-US intercity relations that has lasted for over 60 years. This relationship has thrived through cultural and sports exchanges. Programs like sports tournaments for youth from both cities foster friendships, while collaborative art events bring together creative talents. Students from Ferris City visiting Shimonoseki experience Japanese culture firsthand through activities like calligraphy and traditional dance. Meanwhile, Shimonoseki's youth broaden their horizons by engaging with American culture. The partnership has also yielded tangible benefits, including economic cooperation and support for building cultural facilities, contributing to the development of both communities.
3. Yamaguchi City and Hangzhou City (Zhejiang Province, China)
Since their friendship began in 1981, Yamaguchi City and Hangzhou City have deepened their ties through various exchanges, supported by a long history of connections between Japan and China. Hangzhou is renowned for its scenic West Lake, while Yamaguchi City is also rich in natural beauty, sharing a similar character. The partnership emphasizes tea culture exchanges, with workshops and exhibitions comparing Japanese and Chinese tea traditions hosted alternately in both cities. Art exchanges, including painting exhibitions featuring works by artists from both cities, have also strengthened their cultural connection. Additionally, educational exchanges offer students the chance to experience different cultures directly through exchange programs. These initiatives have fostered mutual understanding and friendship between the citizens of Yamaguchi and Hangzhou.
4. Yamaguchi City and Perth (Western Australia, Australia)
Yamaguchi City established a sister city relationship with Perth in 1971, fostering over 50 years of friendship. The partnership focuses on environmental preservation and sports exchanges. Youth delegation programs allow students from Yamaguchi to stay with host families in Perth, offering valuable opportunities to learn about local culture and language. Regular international rugby matches have further strengthened friendships between athletes from both cities. Additionally, the two cities collaborate on tree-planting activities, contributing to global environmental conservation. Through these efforts, Yamaguchi and Perth maintain a strong bond between their citizens.
5. Ube City and Newport News (Virginia, USA)
Ube City and Newport News forged Japan’s first sister city relationship with an American city in 1958, a historic milestone in international city partnerships. Their collaboration spans culture, economy, and education. A student exchange program enables high school students from Ube to study alongside peers in Newport News, fostering global awareness. Artists from Newport News participate in Ube’s art festivals, creating a fusion of artistic cultures. Furthermore, economic collaboration, such as technology sharing and promoting trade in local specialties, has been a key focus. These long-term exchanges have built a sustainable relationship between the two cities.
- Yamaguchi Prefectural University and Zhejiang University (China)
Yamaguchi Prefectural University has partnered with the prestigious Zhejiang University in China to engage in international academic exchange. Through the student exchange program, students from both universities are given valuable opportunities to experience the culture and language of the other country. For example, students from Yamaguchi Prefectural University study Chinese intensively at Zhejiang University while deepening their understanding of China's history and modern society. Conversely, Zhejiang University students learn Japanese and Japanese culture at Yamaguchi Prefectural University, gaining first-hand experience of the local community and lifestyle. Additionally, joint research projects have been conducted on global issues such as environmental challenges and regional development. Through these efforts, the partnership contributes not only to academic exchange but also to the development of future leaders who will shape the relationship between the two countries. - Yamaguchi Prefectural University and the University of Wollongong (Australia)
Yamaguchi Prefectural University and the University of Wollongong in Australia have established a partnership to promote language education and cultural exchange. For Yamaguchi Prefectural University, which places a strong emphasis on English education, this partnership plays a vital role. Students gain invaluable opportunities to experience different cultures and education systems through the exchange program. For example, students from Yamaguchi Prefectural University study academic English at the University of Wollongong while participating in project-based learning with local students. Meanwhile, students from the University of Wollongong visit Yamaguchi Prefecture, attending lectures on Japanese culture and participating in local community activities. Through this international connection, students develop a broader perspective and prepare to thrive in a global environment. - High Schools in Yamaguchi Prefecture and High Schools in Busan (South Korea)
High schools in Yamaguchi Prefecture have partnered with high schools in Busan, South Korea, to actively promote student exchange programs. These programs provide opportunities for students to directly experience each other's cultures through study trips and homestay programs. For example, high school students from Yamaguchi visit Busan to attend classes at local schools and participate in workshops that teach traditional Korean culture. Similarly, students from Busan visit Yamaguchi Prefecture, experiencing Japanese lifestyle and culture through homestay programs. Joint sports tournaments and cultural festivals are also held, offering students the chance to deepen their understanding of different cultures and foster international friendships. These exchanges provide young people with valuable experiences that prepare them for active roles in a global society. - High Schools in Hagi City and High Schools in Grenoble (France)
High schools in Hagi City have partnered with high schools in Grenoble, France, to promote exchanges centered on art and culture. Collaborative art projects created by students from both countries are a highlight of this partnership, with exhibitions of these works enhancing mutual understanding. For instance, Hagi-yaki pottery and calligraphy are displayed in Grenoble, while French paintings and sculptures are showcased in Hagi. Short-term study programs also allow Hagi students to visit Grenoble, where they participate in French language and art classes. This immersive experience helps students not only gain a firsthand understanding of French culture but also develop international perspectives that support their future aspirations. These initiatives serve as a successful model for interregional exchange between local communities.