Lubbock, Texas and Musashino, Japan: A 40-Year Friendship Across the Globe!

Lubbock may be known for its flat plains and West Texas charm, but did you know it has a cultural connection stretching all the way to Japan? Yep, Lubbock's sister city is Musashino, Japan—a partnership that’s been thriving since 1983! It’s an international friendship that’s been building bridges between two very different worlds for over 40 years!

The Sister Cities International program brought our two cities together, creating opportunities for cultural exchange and collaboration. So, what does that mean for folks here in the Hub City? For starters, students from both cities have the chance to experience each other’s cultures through exchange programs, where they get to share traditions, learn new customs, and even pick up a few words of each other's language.

Check out this cool 'walking tour' of our sister city:

Over the years, Lubbock and Musashino have hosted each other’s delegations, including city officials, artists, and educators. It’s not just about the official visits either—this partnership extends to cultural celebrations, from Japanese tea ceremonies and calligraphy workshops to West Texas barbecues and country music showcases. It’s a friendship that blends the best of both worlds!

Musashino is located just outside Tokyo, and while it’s a bustling urban area, it shares a common bond with Lubbock: a focus on community and connection. Just like Lubbock is a hub for education and the arts, Musashino is known for its emphasis on culture and innovation.

As Lubbockites, it’s pretty special to know our West Texas spirit has a home on the other side of the world. Whether it’s students swapping stories, leaders exchanging ideas, or simply learning to say “hello” in Japanese (it’s konnichiwa, by the way), this partnership proves that even the biggest distances can’t keep good friends apart. Cheers to 40 years of global friendship!

ラボックが大好きです -- That's 'I Love Lubbock' in Japanese. FYI.