When we build friendships across borders, we make room for a better future.
We’re honored to support the storytelling efforts of the Vancouver-Joyo Sister Cities Committee! This group is dedicated to deepening the long-standing friendship between Vancouver, Washington and its sister city, Joyo, Japan.
For over 25 years, this unique connection has fostered cultural exchange, student visits, artistic collaboration, and community events like the annual Sakura Festival at Clark College.
We help share those stories with the community through vibrant photos, engaging social media posts, and event coverage that honors the spirit of this international partnership.
The sister city relationship between Vancouver and Joyo was formalized in 1995, but the story began a few years earlier with a shared vision from the cities’ Rotary Clubs.
With support from residents in both communities, that vision became real. In 1995, the City of Vancouver, Washington and the City of Joyo, Japan formalized their sister city relationship, launching what would become decades of cultural exchange, civic connection, and lifelong friendships.
Joyo is nestled in the Yamashiro Basin between two former capitals — Kyoto and Nara — in the heart of Japan’s Kansai region. Founded in 1972, the city spans just over 12 square miles and is home to more than 80,000 residents.
Joyo is known for its beautiful parks, thoughtful urban design, and cultural centers like Bunka Parc Joyo, a gathering place for concerts, exhibits, and community events. A replica of Fort Vancouver even stands in Konosu-yama Recreation Park, a lasting symbol of the bond between our two cities.
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