About The Sister City Commission
Carp flags are flown as symbols of prosperity and promotion of life, because a carp is said to be always swimming upstream. Those involved in the Sister City Commission are in many ways like the carp, which in a town of Truman and wagon trails have brought a new culture and friendship from thousands of miles across the globe.
Overview of Higashimurayama, Japan
To the west of Tokyo there is a city very similar in size to Independence, MO. The city's past is not of wagon trains or famous presidents but in 1889 several villages merged to form Higashimurayama Village. Higashimurayama is known for the "Shofukuji" which is on the national treasure list of Japan and is a temple that is supposed to house 1000 Jizo Buddhist deities. Higashimurayama is also known for the Kitayama Iris Park where a vast landscape of flowers are grown and enjoyed.
How Does Independence Compare With Higashimurayama?
| Independence | Higashimurayama | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 116,800 | 151,300 |
| Households | 47,390 | 59,379 |
| Area (sq. miles) | 78 | 53 |
| Elevation | 1,050 ft. | 57.4 ft. |
| Avg. Temp. | 58.5 | 57.5 |
| Coldest Month | January | February |
| Hottest Month | July | August |
| Median Household Income | $28,242 | $47,542 |
| Public Schools | ||
| Elementary | 13 | 15 |
| Junior High | 3 | 7 |
| Senior High | 2 | 2 |
| Private Schools | ||
| Elementary | 4 | 0 |
| Junior High | 4 | 3 |
| Senior High | 4 | 3 |
| City Council | Mayor 6 Council Members |
Mayor 24 Council Members |