10/08/2026
Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region (CEDRR) and The Hub CoWorks were honored to host last evening's gathering to recognize the 40th anniversary of the Sister City Partnership between Rutland, Vermont, and Hanamaki, Japan.
This connection began with a chance encounter in 1985, when the mayor of Ishidoriya, Japan, was visiting the United States. When Mayor Kojiro Seki arrived in Vermont, he noted that the two communities were very similar in size, terrain, and spirit – each nestled in the mountains near ski areas. The sister city agreement was signed the next year, and the relationship continues to thrive four decades later.
Hundreds of students, chaperones, and host families from both communities have participated in the RISE Rutland/Hanamaki Student Exchange program over the years, traveling across the world to experience each other's cultures and build lasting friendships. When Ishidoriya merged into the city of Hanamaki in 2006, both cities reaffirmed their commitment to one another.
Last night's event, sponsored by MKF Properties, was an opportunity for more than 100 members of our community to come together and welcome around 20 travelers from Hanamaki to Rutland. Over 20 businesses and organizations from across the region participated to help showcase the Rutland region’s business offerings and civic spirit. Our Japanese guests presented a traditional tea ceremony, and attendees enjoyed food and drink from Roots the Restaurant while sharing photos and stories from their trips to visit one another. Many new connections were made.
We are grateful to the Friends of Hanamaki committee for their hard work in putting this event together, and for choosing The Hub CoWorks as the venue. The Hub was created to be a place where people come together, strengthening ties across our local economy and beyond, and this event truly embodied the spirit and mission of our collaborative workspace.
