Governor Taizo Mikazuki to Visit Michigan in September 2026

Governor Taizo Mikazuki of Shiga Prefecture is set to embark on a pivotal visit to the U.S. state of Michigan in September 2026, marking a new chapter in a 60-year-old sister state relationship. This visit, which comes ahead of the 60th anniversary of the relationship in 2028, aims to ensure the legacy of the existing exchanges while exploring new opportunities for collaboration in industry and innovation.

The journey between Shiga Prefecture and Michigan began in 1968, inspired by their shared connection to Lake Biwa in Japan and the Great Lakes in the United States. Since then, the relationship has expanded beyond the initial bonds of water, encompassing a wide range of fields such as education, culture, economy, and the environment. Over the past six decades, more than 11,000 people have exchanged visits, fostering a deep and enduring friendship.

One of the most significant milestones in the relationship occurred in September 2025, when Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan made history by becoming the first overseas dignitary to deliver a speech at the Shiga Prefectural Assembly hall. This visit highlighted the strong ties between the two regions and set the stage for the upcoming exchange.

During his visit, Governor Mikazuki will begin in Marquette, Michigan, where he will meet long-standing supporters of the sister city relationship between Higashiomi City, Shiga Prefecture, and Marquette. The highlight of his visit will be the participation in the Mackinac Bridge Walk, an iconic event in Michigan. Here, Mikazuki and Whitmer are expected to discuss the 60th anniversary of the sister state relationship and explore future opportunities for collaboration.

In Detroit, Mikazuki will visit "Michigan Central," a hub for innovation that brings together industry, academia, government, and private citizens. This visit aims to build on the existing friendship and explore new partnership opportunities, including collaboration between startups, human resource development, and regional revitalization efforts.

The relationship between Shiga and Michigan has been nurtured by people-to-people exchanges and mutual respect, which have stood the test of time. As they prepare to mark the 60th anniversary of their sister state relationship, both regions are committed to passing on the legacy of the existing exchanges to the next generation. Governor Mikazuki’s visit in September 2026 is a testament to the enduring bond between Shiga and Michigan and the potential for future cooperation.