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2023 / 2024 Community Resource Guide of Edmonds023 / 2024 Community Resource Guide of Edmonds

Edmonds Sister City Commission

Edmonds, Washington and Hekinan, Japan became sister cities in 1988
to promote international communication and understanding. During that
time, the two cities have exchanged ideas, public art, visitors and many
enjoyable moments. Personal, cultural and educational connections have
built an enduring friendship between Edmonds and Hekinan.
Over the past 35 years, over 1000 people have travelled to and from
Hekinan. Most of these visitors are students who exchange homestays
during the summer. This opportunity for youth to travel overseas and
experience a vastly different culture is made possible by the Edmonds
Sister City Commission. Since the students are completely immersed in
each other’s culture, they learn understanding and acceptance of our
differences. The exchange program provides a unique opportunity for
Edmonds youth to create lifelong friendships and love of Japanese culture.
Many adults have also participated in exchanges over the past 35 years.
Every five years Edmonds and Hekinan celebrate their sister cityhood
through adult exchanges that take place in the spring and fall. Perhaps
you have seen our Hekinan friends shopping around town or celebrating
Halloween at the annual Edmonds trick-or-treat night. While we have an
immense amount of fun with our friends from Hekinan, we also take time
to solemnly honor our long-standing relationship through cultural fairs,
friendship dinners, and the exchange of local cultural art.

Edmonds Sister City Commissioners are volunteers dedicated to
strengthening the bonds of friendship between Edmonds, Washington
and Hekinan, Japan. If you’d like to learn more about the Commission and
its programs, please visit our webpage at https://www.edmondswa.gov/
government/boards_and_commissions/sister_city_commission.