An annual Goodwill Mission (GWM) offers opportunities for Michigan and Shiga residents to deepen friendships and cultural understanding. During the summer of odd-numbered years a delegation of Michigan residents enjoys a ten-day Goodwill Mission to Shiga, including five days of home-stay experiences with a Shiga host family as well as day trips to Kyoto and other neighboring areas. A representative for the Governor of Michigan often accompanies the Goodwill Delegation to Shiga.