The city of Akashi, Japan, is Wuxi's first sister city. Their relationship has been established since August 29, 1981.

Located in the center of Hyogo and facing to the Inland Sea, it has an area of 49.24 square kilometers and a population of 291,200. It is known as the "Time Home of Japan", for the eastern 135° meridian passes through it.

During the past 20 years, 1,888 delegates in 54 groups of Akashians have been sent to Wuxi, and 600 Wuxi delegates in 67 groups have been sent to Akashi for interactive exchanges in economy, culture, education, sports and other aspects.