Programs & Activities

Each year, a delegation of citizens from Michigan or Shiga visits their sister state for a period of several days. In addition to tourist attractions and activities, the delegates get to experience daily life firsthand through a homestay with a local host or host family. Since the sister state relationship began over 50 years ago, hundreds of delegates have visited their sister state and made lifelong connections, further cementing the bond between Michigan and Shiga. A delegation of Shiga citizens visits Michigan during even-numbered years, while a delegation of Michigan citizens visits Shiga during odd-numbered years.

Delegates from both Michigan and Shiga vary widely in age, profession, personal interests, etc. Some delegates are traveling alone and would be fine with a host family or a single host. Other delegates travel as a couple or with another relation and would prefer a family or individual that can host multiple delegates. People of all family or personal backgrounds who are sincerely interested in international exchange are encouraged to participate — the Goodwill Mission coordinators work to match people accordingly.