The Shelby County International Relations Council (SCIRC), in collaboration with the City of Shelbyville, announced the departure of a student delegation to Shizuoka City/Kambara, Japan Monday morning, continuing a decades-long Sister City relationship rooted in cultural diplomacy and international friendship.
The delegation, comprised of Shelby County students in grades 7–12, will spend approximately one week living with host families in Shizuoka City’s Kambara district, followed by several days exploring Tokyo.
This immersive cultural exchange offers students the opportunity to experience daily life in Japan, participate in local traditions, visit schools, and engage in cross-cultural dialogue — often highlighted by a formal visit with the Mayor of Shizuoka.
Established in 1989, the Sister City partnership between Shelbyville and Shizuoka was born out of a historic relationship with RYOBI, which chose Shelbyville as the site of its U.S. manufacturing plant in 1985. The cultural ties that followed have created a meaningful and enduring bridge between the two communities.
"This program exemplifies the power of municipal diplomacy and grassroots international engagement," said Councilwoman Linda Sanders. "Through these exchanges, our students develop global awareness, build lifelong friendships, and represent the very best of Shelbyville abroad."
Each year, Shelbyville hosts students from Shizuoka as part of the reciprocal exchange. Japanese students stay with local families and engage in American cultural experiences, including school visits, civic tours, and traditional Southern hospitality. Many families in both cities have maintained relationships that span decades, creating a legacy of international understanding that is rare for a city of Shelbyville’s size.
“Shelbyville’s commitment to cultural exchange reflects the forward-thinking vision of our city leaders in the 1980s and remains a source of pride today,” said Mayor Scott Furgeson. “We are honored to continue this tradition and encourage new generations to participate in global dialogue and friendship.”
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