Kurashiki 50th Anniversary Delegation Update
Over the past two years, many of you have expressed interest in joining a delegation to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Kansas City and Kurashiki's sister-city friendship. Due to the pandemic, we're celebrating a couple years after our anniversary, but have a great program planned to make up for lost time! After hearing from HAJAS members and our community -- and working with our travel agent and friends in Kurashiki -- the committee has an update for you.
DATES: April 12 - 24, 2024. Depart KCMO, arrive in Osaka/Kansai Airport April 13. Leave from Tokyo April 24
COST: $4500 - $5000
(Final cost depends on the number of participants and the price of the airline ticket. Final cost will be provided after all traveling make their deposits)
DEPOSIT DUE: $700 by December 8, 2023
Final payment due mid-January.
Deposit payment can be made:
*by check mailed to
Heart of America Japan-America Society
P.O. Box 22487
Kansas City, MO 64113-2487
*by credit card (additional 3% fee required)
To pay for deposit by credit card, use the registration button to the left.
OPTIONS: All delegates must participate in the Kurashiki celebration, but will have the ability to tailor the rest of their trip, staying with the delegation as we travel to various cities or traveling on your own. The total price of the trip will vary depending on which cities and tours you choose to be a part of (final decision needed in January at time of deposit).
CITIES INCLUDED: Osaka, Himeji, Kurashiki, Miyajima Island, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Nara, and Tokyo. Tours included in all cities except Osaka (allowing time to "settle in" after the long flight). Suggested activities and recommendations for places to visit will be provided for free time. In Miyajima, Kyoto, Nara, and Tokyo, you'll have the opportunity to visit some of the most famous temples and shrines, eat delicious Japanese cuisine, explore historic areas, and shop for traditional souvenirs or the latest electronics -- and anything in between.
TRANSPORTATION / HOTELS / MEALS: Flights, train, and bus transportation included in the trip. Breakfast at hotels and several lunches & dinners included, including meals as part of the Kurashiki celebration and tour. For free days, you'll arrange and pay for your own transportation and meals.
PLANNING MEETINGS: Those who provide a deposit in December will receive more detailed information and an invitation to a planning meeting to ensure you have all the information you need to participate in the delegation and have a wonderful travel experience!
QUESTIONS? Contact Jim Kanki, jimkanki@gmail.com or 816-853-6173.