About the Festival

The Japan Festival is a one-day event held annually at Johnson County Community College. We’re dedicated to educating and entertaining the Greater Kansas City Metro Area through an introduction to Japanese culture.

The Japan Festival is presented by the Heart of America Japan-America Society. Since 1962, the Heart of America Japan-America Society (HAJAS) has made it our mission, “To further the understanding between the peoples of Japan and the Greater Kansas City area by promoting social, cultural and educational exchanges.”

The Festival showcases the traditional culture, pop culture, food and art of Japan, along with the vision, technology, and hopes for the future shared by the people of Japan and the people of the Kansas City area. It features Japanese musical performances, traditional Japanese foods, a Japanese candy artist, Japanese snacks and sweets, a Bazaar shopping extravaganza, exhibits Japanese cultural village for kids, martial arts, anime & manga, workshops, demonstrations, cultural presentations, and more!

History

The first Greater Kansas City Japan Festival was held on September 13, 1997, on the campus of the University of Missouri at Kansas City. Dr. Andrew Tsubaki was the first chairperson of the Japan Festival Committee. At that time there was a Japanese Consulate in Kansas City that was led by Consul General Tatsuo Tanaka. Consul General Tanaka was the driving force behind starting the first festival.

In 2004 the festival was moved to the Johnson County Community College where it is still held today. The 2025 GKCJF will be the twentieth festival held on the campus of Johnson County Community College.

CONSUL-GENERAL OF JAPAN IN CHICAGO

Consul-General Yuichi Oba assumed the post of Consul General of Japan in Chicago in August 2026, representing ten Midwestern states and supporting the region’s vibrant network of Japanese residents, businesses, cultural organizations, and community partnerships.

Born in Iwaki City, Fukushima, he is a graduate of the University of Tokyo and holds an MPhil from the University of Cambridge.

Since joining Japan’s Ministry of Construction in 1993 and later transferring to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Consul‑General Oba has built an extensive career in international diplomacy, development cooperation, and global health. His postings have included senior roles in Europe, Africa policy, human rights, economic affairs, and international development finance. He has served in the Netherlands, Egypt, and Thailand, and held leadership positions at the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) as well as board roles with the Global Fund and Unitaid.

Consul General Oba is committed to strengthening Japan–U.S. relations through grassroots exchange, community engagement, and close collaboration with Japan‑America Societies, local governments, universities, and youth programs. As this is his first assignment in the United States, he looks forward to visiting communities across the Midwest and supporting the continued growth of friendship between Japan and the Heartland.

HONORARY CONSUL OF JAPAN IN KANSAS CITY

On August 1, 2016, the Government of Japan officially appointed Mr. James Satoshi Kanki as the Honorary Consul of Japan in Kansas City.

Honorary Consuls of Japan represent Japan in various jurisdictions. Their responsibilities include providing consultation and support for Japanese nationals, facilitating close relationships with Japan-related organizations and promoting a better understanding of Japan.

Members of the Heart of America Japan-America Society know that Jim Kanki is extremely deserving of this appointment. As life members, he and his wife Lydia have served in numerous board and committee roles. During the 2016 Shinnenkai celebration, Jim was recognized with a Special Commendation by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Sponsors and Contributors

Yokozuna Sumo Grand Master

Komusubi Sumo Grand Champion

Maegashira Sumo Grand Champion

Juryo Sumo Champion

Patron