University of Iowa has some connection with Yamanashi Kenritsu University.
Yamanashi Prefecture has a sister state relationship with Iowa. http://www.iowasisterstates.org/Iowa_Sister_States/Our_Sister_States.html
Abilene, sister city of Omitama, Ibaraki Lawrence, sister city of Hiratsuka, Kanagawa Olathe, sister city of Maebashi, Gumma
Business: Hino Motors Manufacturing in Farmington Hills. Toyota-Technical Center near Milan. Nissan has technical center in Farminton Hills Nearly 700 Japanese facilities in Michigan and Ohio.. Nearly 9000 Japanese citizens live in Michigan.