The Governor of Shiga Prefecture, Taizo Mikazuki, is set to visit Michigan in September 2026 to reinforce the long-standing sister state relationship that both regions share as they approach the 60th anniversary of their connection in 2028. The alliance, established in 1968 due to a common link to Lake Biwa in Shiga and the Great Lakes in Michigan, will be the focus of Mikazuki's visit.
Throughout nearly 60 years, the relationship has expanded beyond environmental similarities to encompass education, culture, economy, and environmental domains, affecting more than 11,000 individuals through numerous exchange programs. Prominent among these initiatives are the high school student exchange program and reciprocal visits of friendship delegations.
A pivotal moment occurred in September 2025 when Governor of Michigan Gretchen Whitmer visited Shiga Prefecture, marking her as the first international dignitary to address the Shiga Prefectural Assembly hall and reaffirming the enduring connections between the regions.
Mikazuki's Michigan itinerary includes a visit to Marquette City, connected as a sister city to Higashiomi City in Shiga. He will meet locals who have continually supported the exchange efforts between the two cities. Additionally, Mikazuki will partake in Michigan's renowned Mackinac Bridge Walk with Governor Whitmer, offering a platform for the governors to deliberate on the future of the sister state relationship.
While in Detroit, Governor Mikazuki will explore strategic alliances by visiting 'Michigan Central,' a newly established center for innovation uniting industry, academia, and government to promote collaboration. The initiative symbolizes the progression of Shiga and Michigan's relationship into new sectors like startups, human resource development, and regional revitalization.
As both entities approach the 60th anniversary of their sister state relationship, Shiga Prefecture aims to transition their exchange program into a sustainable model for future generations, fostering a broader cooperative relationship built on a shared history and mutual interests.
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