Tulsa and Beihai have shared a Sister City partnership since 1987, built on student exchanges, cultural events, and growing library and art collaborations. Under the leadership of Dr. Alpha Zhang, this connection continues to thrive and brings the Pearl of the South China Sea a little closer to home.

Tulsa recently welcomed a distinguished delegation from Mwanza, Tanzania, to celebrate the official launch of our newest Sister City partnership and the first on the African continent. From signing ceremonies and cultural tours to community gatherings and heartfelt conversations, the week highlighted the power of international friendship and mutual exchange. 

This spring, Tulsa was in full bloom with cultural celebrations, student exchanges, and cherry blossoms—all in honor of our Sister City, Utsunomiya, Japan. From postcards to samurai armor, explore how this long-standing partnership brought global connection to life across Tulsa.

Alongside our community partners at Philbrook, Gathering Place, and Tulsa Botanic Garden, TGA is supporting a Spring and Summer of Japanese-inspired events all across Tulsa! Win a trip to Utsunomiya & Tokyo, send postcards to students in Utsunomiya while admiring OK’s largest collection of cherry blossom trees, and enjoy the OK debut of Florigami in the Garden!

Alpha Zhang and a local calligrapher represented the Beihai Partnership at the May 10 Global Gatherings kickoff, engaging hundreds of visitors at Tulsa’s Gathering Place.

The Beihai Sister City Partnership helped bring global culture to life at the May 2023 Global Gatherings event, featuring vibrant performances by the China Rose dance troupe and interactive engagement with Tulsa families.