Grand Rapids Sister Cities
Welcome our sister cities and sample their products in the Piazza - center court. Sponsored by Grand Rapids Magazine.
Omihachiman, Japan - Our first Sister City signing took place in 1986 in Japan. Located near the center of the Japan Islands on the shores of Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan. Rice and beef are important agricultural products while tourism and history are a main focus. The area produces fresh water pearls, bamboo products and the most prayer beads of any other district in Japan.
Bielsko-Biala, Poland - Adopted by Grand Rapids in 1991. Located in the southern mountain region of Poland, it has a climate and population similar to Grand Rapids. The major share in domestic production belongs to the electro-equipment, textile and chemical industries, food processing, and forestry.
Perugia, Italy - A large volunteer network supports this Sister City relationship, established in 1993. Located in Umbria, a hilly region in the heartland of Italy, admired for its wineries and historic architecture. Perugia is home to an important art school and two impressive universities.
Ga District, Ghana - They became a Sister City to Grand Rapids in 1994. Part of what was once called the Gold Coast in the southern part of Ghana and includes a stretch of sandy beach along the Atlantic Ocean. The district includes rural and urban areas adjacent to Ghana’s capital, Accra. Pineapples, other fruits, textiles, and wood products are the principle exports.
Zapopan, Mexico - Our newest Sister City relationship that was welcomed in 2008. Zapopan, a suburb of Guadalajara, is located in central Mexico. Zapopan boasts thirteen college and university campuses and is known for its growing biological sciences and technology industries.