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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Kansas City Japan Festival
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20221001T213646Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T190253Z
UID:10000092-1759536000-1759622399@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Food Vendors
DESCRIPTION:View Details and Full Menus on the Food & Refreshments Page. \n\nFood Court\nCOM 1ST FLOOR • JCCC DINING AREA & FOOD COURT\nKC Craft Ramen: Takoyaki\, Okonomiyaki\, Chicken Karaage\, Yakisoba\, Yakitori\, Onigiri\, Taiyaki\, Kushi Dango\, Yakiton Bowl\, and Ramune drinks. See Full Menu.  \nJinya Ramen Bar: Sushi\, Poke Bowl\, Curry Rice Bowl\, Chicken Ramen\, Spicy Vegan Ramen\, Impossible Tactos\,  Ramune Soda and Matcha Lychee Lemonade to drink. See Full Menu.  \nJCCC Food Services: Yakisoba Noodles\, Tempura Shrimp\, Steak Noodle Salad\, Noodle Bowl\, Teriyaki Chicken\, Pork Gyoza\, Vegetable Egg Roll\, Fried Rice\, and Boba Teas. See Full Menu. \n\nJCCC Encore Espresso\nMTC 1ST FLOOR\nServing Iced Coffee\, Hot Coffee\, Matcha\, Lattes\, Mocha\, Chai\, Smoothies\, Sodas\, and Sushi. See Full Menu.  \n\nOriental Supermarket\nJAPANESE SNACKS AND DRINKS\nMTC 219 • SECOND FLOOR\nPackaged Japanese snacks and treats\, including breads\, chips\, mochi\, candy\, and drinks. See Full Menu. \n\nBoba Love\nRC 101 • 1ST FLOOR • CapFed Conference Center\nBoba Love will be serving Boba Milk Tea\, Boba Refresher Tea\, and Mochi Donuts! See Full Menu. 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/food-vendors/
LOCATION:COM: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Food & Refreshments
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/KCRamen3.jpg
GEO:38.924353968704;-94.729853391843
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20221001T171422Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251001T144615Z
UID:10000079-1759536000-1759622399@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Video Gaming Room
DESCRIPTION:RC 183 • Regnier Center • First Floor\nCome and play video games!
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/video-gaming/
LOCATION:RC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Special Activities
GEO:38.924456599398;-94.726959851526
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20250925T183607Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T184017Z
UID:10000240-1759536000-1759622399@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Stamp Passport
DESCRIPTION:Festival Wide\nMasks & Myths Stamp Passport\nPick up a Passport Postcard at the info table on MTC 2nd floor landing and travel through the festival to collect all 8 Mask Stamps. Return your fully stamped passport to the Japan Festival Booth to be entered to win a Lego Japanese Maple Lego Kit\, Japan Festival T-Shirts\, Tote Bags\, 2025 Festival Enamel Pins\, and much more! \n  \n\n\nThis year there are 8 stamps to find around the festival for this year’s theme “Masks and Myths”. Each one plays an important part in Japanese culture.\nHere is more information about each of the stamps:\nOni Mask – An oni mask is a type of demon or ogre mask\, part of wearable Japanese folklore that dates back to the 6th century. Although fearsome\, which is why Samurai masks are similar\, they can also be a form of protection. Oni masks can be found in theaters\, at festivals\, and used in holidays like “Setsubun” and others. \nOkame Mask – Okame is also known as “Otafuku\,” which means “much good fortune.” “Okame” means “Tortoise” and is a symbol of long life. You may see Okame masks in Kyogen comic plays\, which usually take place during the intermission of Noh theater performances. \nTengu Mask – Tengu\, a Shinto Kami trickster god\, who either has a human appearance with a long nose\, or a bird-like appearance with a beak. Tengu appears in various aspects of Japanese culture\, religion\, folklore\, and mythology\, and is a regular presence in modern Anime. Tengu can be worn at festivals or other occasions. They protect the wearer from malevolent spirits. \nSamurai Mask – Samurai Masks are also often called “Menpo” masks\, which refer to half masks or Hanbo masks\, covering the lower half of the face from below the nose to the chin. These samurai masks\, popular among samurai in feudal Japan\, were worn on the face in addition to the samurai’s “Kabuto” or helmet armor. These were made from iron\, leather\, and cotton braid\, and often featured an added horse-hair mustache. They added a fearsome component to battle\, as well as protection from swords\, arrows\, and the elements. \nHyottoko Mask– Hyottoko roughly translates to “Fire man.” Hyottoko is often portrayed as a comedic character\, typically featuring eyes of varying shapes and sizes\, and a mouth that is constantly puckered\, as he is always the one blowing the bamboo pipe to keep the communal fire going. Hyottoko may appear alongside Okame as her husband in Kyogen comic plays or at festivals and dances\, especially those with fire themes. You might also find a Hyottoko Mask over fireplaces to ward off fire and bring good luck and prosperity. \nKitsune Mask – Kitsune are not ordinary foxes. These fox masks symbolize mystical fox spirits\, often linked to the Shinto deity Inari. Fox masks are among the most popular festival masks because they serve as messengers and protectors of Inari\, thus representing good luck in many forms\, including during rice harvests. You can also see Kitsune masks in Noh theater\, Kabuki performances\, and in modern media\, such as video games\, anime\, and manga. While traditional colors include red and gold\, fox masks come in a variety of forms. \nKabuki Mask – Kabuki masks are not always masks\, but sometimes makeup. Kabuki masks or makeup are often exaggerated portrayals of expressions and dramatic displays of traits. Although red is often associated with strength or passion\, blue is often linked to fear or villainy\, green suggests mythical or supernatural elements\, and white conveys purity. The painting of a mask or makeup in Kabuki helps the audience understand the inner character as the performance unfolds. \nKappa Mask– Kappa are a type of water Yokai creature from Japanese Folklore. Although this stamp depiction of Kappa is very cute\, Kappa masks often match the rather fearsome creature. Kappa typically have a turtle appearance\, a beak-like nose\, and have a pool of water in their head. Kappa masks can be found in theater performances\, parades\, folklore storytelling\, and various festivals. Kappa stories regained popularity in the Edo period\, although less popular than other masks\, wearing a Kappa mask may ward off evil spirits and Yokai.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/stamp-passport/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Masks & Myths Theme,Special Activities
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Stamps_8_2025-2.png
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20221001T165454Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T143456Z
UID:10000071-1759536000-1759622399@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Woven in Time: The Enduring Legacy of the Kimono Exhibit
DESCRIPTION:RC 270 • Regnier Center • The Cube • Second Floor\nView a PDF of the Exhibit Brochure\nWoven in Time: The Enduring Legacy of the Kimono Exhibit\nStep into the beauty and tradition of Japan’s most iconic garment at the Woven in Time: The Enduring Legacy of the Kimono exhibit. Explore exquisite kimono styles—from elegant to casual—and learn about the intricate accessories and artistry that give each piece meaning. This exhibit showcases how kimono reflect Japanese history\, craftsmanship\, and cultural identity across the centuries.\n\n\n  \nThe word Kimono simply means “things to wear” and is the traditional clothing of Japan. It is a long robe with wide sleeves worn as an outer garment. A sash\, called an Obi\, complements the kimono. The Obi is worn around the mid-section of the body. \nToday\, there are many different types and styles of Kimono worn by men\, women and children. The color\, cut\, fabric and decorations of a Kimono may vary according to sex\, age and marital status of the wearer\, the season of the year and the occasion for which the Kimono is worn. \nKimonos are made of silk and are usually very expensive. Today they are worn at formal or traditional occasions such as weddings and tea ceremonies. To put on a Kimono takes much practice and time. Tying the belt or Obi alone is so difficult that it may require assistance from a friend.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/kimono-and-obi-display/
LOCATION:RC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Exhibits & Displays
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/kimono-display.jpg
GEO:38.924339003741;-94.72682117767
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20221001T170113Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T203324Z
UID:10000074-1759536000-1759622399@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Ikebana Display
DESCRIPTION:MTC 1st Floor Lobby\nIkebana Display\nBy the Sogetsu School\nIkebana is the art of Japanese flower arrangement. Take time to enjoy the Ikebana displays in the lobbies of the Midwest Trust Center\, and the Student Center\, provided by members of the Sogetsu School.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/ikebana-display/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Exhibits & Displays
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/large-ikebana-display-2.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20221001T170245Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T143305Z
UID:10000075-1759536000-1759622399@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Ikebana Exhibit
DESCRIPTION:RC Atrium • First Floor\nIkebana Exhibit\nBy the Sogetsu School of Ikebana\nThis exhibit of the beautiful art of Ikebana will give everyone an opportunity to see both traditional and contemporary styles of this distinctively Japanese art form.\nLearn about the Japanese art of flower arranging (Ikebana) from masters of the Sogetsu School and their students. Members and students of the Sogetsu School will be on hand at the exhibit to answer questions and explain the techniques used so that attendees can better appreciate this increasingly popular style of flower arranging.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/ikebana-exhibit/
LOCATION:RC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Exhibits & Displays
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/ikebana-displays.jpg
GEO:38.924456599398;-94.726959851526
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20221001T170509Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T140216Z
UID:10000076-1759536000-1759622399@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Bonsai and Suiseki Display
DESCRIPTION:SC Lobby (Student Center) • 1st Floor\nBonsai and Suiseki Display\nBy the Bonsai Society of Greater Kansas City\nAll day in the second floor lobby of the Midwest Trust Center\, the Bonsai Society of Greater Kansas City has been in existence since 1968 and was formed to promote the interest and appreciation of the art of bonsai through education\, training\, information and exhibitions. \nWe are privileged to have the Society provide an exhibition of a wide variety of bonsai styles and plant materials for our Festival again this year. Society members will be at the exhibit to answer questions and demonstrate how plants are pruned\, shaped\, trained and wired. \nYou will also enjoy their Suiseki displays. Suiseki (sui = water\, seki = stone) is the study and enjoyment of naturally formed stones as objects of beauty.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/bonsai-and-suiseki-display/
LOCATION:SC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Exhibits & Displays
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/bonsai.jpg
GEO:38.924637406872;-94.730239304009
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20221001T170704Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T202931Z
UID:10000077-1759536000-1759622399@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Torii Gate Entryway to the Festival
DESCRIPTION:MTC 1st Floor Lobby\nTorii Gate Entryway to the Festival\nThe large Torii Gate that leads all visitors into the GKC Japan Festival is a depiction/large model of one of the most famous Torii Gates in all of Japan at the Itsukushima Shrine near Hiroshima.\nThe Torii gate at the Festival is approximately 14 feet tall and the top crossbar is about 16 feet long.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/torii-gate-entryway-to-the-festival/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Exhibits & Displays
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/toriigate.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20221001T173904Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250928T213607Z
UID:10000088-1759536000-1759622399@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japanese Bazaar Shopping
DESCRIPTION:OCB 100 • 1st Floor CoLab\nJapanese Bazaar Shopping\nThere are many opportunities to shop for unique Japanese crafts\, Kimono\, yukata\, Happi coats\, Kokeshi dolls\, games\, books\, Japanese serving ware\, ceramics (sake sets and tea sets) and much more.\nPARTICIPATING BOOTHS: \n\nHeart of America Japan-America Society: www.kcjas.org\nBopBopKat: www.bopbopkat.com\nDeb’s Designs\n\n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japanese-bazaar-shopping-extravaganza/
LOCATION:OCB: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Shopping
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Bazaar-1200.jpg
GEO:38.924376922342;-94.72850289963
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20221001T174211Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250928T210634Z
UID:10000089-1759536000-1759622399@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Kids Cultural Village and Bazaar
DESCRIPTION:MTC 128 • 1st Floor\nKids Cultural Village and Bazaar\nFeatured again at this year’s festival is the Japanese Cultural Village operated by the Kansas City Japanese School. All proceeds from sales are used to support the Kansas City Japanese School. Young and old attendees will be entertained with many opportunities to experience the “real” Japan here in Kansas City. \nAlso enjoy shopping for beautiful Japanese handicraft items at the “Village” Bazaar including Japanese toys\, books and more. \nNo babysitting services will be provided. Adult supervision is required for all children ages 10 and under.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japanese-cultural-village/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Shopping,Special Activities
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/cultural-village-kids-e1694606400628.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20221001T174548Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250928T210839Z
UID:10000091-1759536000-1759622399@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japanese Kid's Games - Outdoor
DESCRIPTION:MTC Courtyard • Outside\nJapanese Kid’s Games\nCome and enjoy traditional Japanese festival games for kids\, and win prizes!\nHosted by the KC Japanese School.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japanese-game-activities-for-children/
LOCATION:MTC: Courtyard (outside)
CATEGORIES:Special Activities
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/kids-games-2.jpg
GEO:38.924781845511;-94.728036897336
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20231002T192416Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T173517Z
UID:10000112-1759536000-1759622399@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japan Festival Merchandise
DESCRIPTION:MTC 2nd Floor Lobby\nJapan Festival Merchandise\nT-Shirts\, Tote Bags\, Stickers\, Masks\, and other KC Japan Festival Merch for sale.  \n  \n\n		\n		\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n		\n\n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japan-festival-merchandise/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Shopping
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Japan-Fest-Merch-2.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20231003T144021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T170030Z
UID:10000139-1759536000-1759622399@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Vendor Booths
DESCRIPTION:Throughout the festival\, shop artist and merch booths and find information from organizations and sponsors! \n  \n\nRegnier Center 101 (Capital Federal Conference Room)\nAki Clothing: aki-clothing.com \nAstrawitch: astrawitchart.com \nBubble Wrapp: bubblewrapptoys.com \nGravitysoda Creations: gravitysoda.carrd.com \nIvy Tompkins: ivytompkins.com \nLevel One Game Shop: LevelOneGameShop.com \nMagical Mews: magical-mews.square.site \nNaka-Kon: www.naka-kon.com \nOtaku Gardens: Otakugardens.com \nPew-Pew Studio: etsy.com/shop/pewpewstudioart \nPlanet Anime: planetanimekc.com \nTaiyaki Collectibles Gachapon: taiyakicollectibles.com \nThe Artisan Rogue: theartisanrogue.com \nThe Laughing Crow: thelaughingcrow13.etsy.com \nTipTop: linktr.ee/tiptopart \nTooKyo Games – Hundred Line: tookyogames.jp/english/HundredLine/ \n  \n\nRC Atrium • Regnier Center\nKeiko Furoshiki: keikofuroshiki.com \n  \n\nGEB (General Education Building) • 2nd Floor\nALL Anime: allanimeshop.com \nKC Craft Ramen: kccraftramen.com \nTurnsol Books: IG: @turnsolbooks \n  \n\nOCB (Office and Classroom Building) • 1st Floor • CoLab\nBopBopKat: BopBopKat.com \nDeb’s Designs \nHeart of America Japan-America Society: kcjas.org  \n  \n\nOCB (Office and Classroom Building) • 2nd Floor\nAllieKatten: alliekatten.com \nBilingual Writer & Japanese Textbooks: bilingualwriterjapanese.com \nWhite Rabbit: etsy.com/shop/WhiteRabbitUSA \n  \n\nMTC (Midwest Trust Center) • 2nd Floor\nIijima Shoten: Art & Clothing \nOn Your Bark!: on-your-bark.com \nTag Team Tompkins: tagteamtompkins.esty.com \nZack Davisson Book Sales \n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/vendor-booths/
LOCATION:RC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Shopping
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/AnimeVendor2.jpg
GEO:38.924456599398;-94.726959851526
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20250928T214330Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251001T150119Z
UID:10000258-1759536000-1759622399@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Hidden Ninja Taiko
DESCRIPTION:OCB: Fountain Square (outside)\nHidden Ninja Taiko\nCome try some Taiko! Hidden Ninja Taiko will offer Taiko workshops throughout the day\, as well as short performance sets.\nHidden Ninja Taiko is a KC based taiko troop that focuses on better playing through fundamentals and an understanding of body mechanics. We apply these understandings to our performances creating a shared energetic experience.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/hidden-ninja-taiko/
LOCATION:OCB: Fountain Square (outside)
CATEGORIES:Performances,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/hidden-ninja-taiko.jpg
GEO:38.924133949303;-94.728518953052
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20251002T141808Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T143607Z
UID:10000273-1759536000-1759622399@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Delicate Beauty\, Fierce Devotion: Samurai Armor & Festival Dolls of Japan
DESCRIPTION:RC 270 • Regnier Center • The Cube • Second Floor\nView a PDF of the Exhibit Brochure\nDelicate Beauty\, Fierce Devotion: Japanese Models of Health\, Safety\, Strength\, and Courage\nSamurai Armor & Festival Dolls of Japan\nThe exhibit Delicate Beauty\, Fierce Devotion highlights the traditions of Japan’s celebrated warrior culture and family rituals\, featuring intricately crafted Samurai armor alongside exquisite dolls displayed for Girls’ Day and Children’s Day. From protective ō-yoroi (great armor) to Hina dolls believed to shield daughters from harm\, these objects embody Japan’s devotion to health\, safety\, strength\, and courage—values passed down through generations.\n  \n\n  \nFeatured in this Exhibit:\nTraditional Samurai Armor Display\nThe Samurai armor on display in our exhibit area is a replica of traditional Samurai armor worn many centuries ago in Japan. The manufacturer of the armor\, Marutake Sangyo\, is Japan’s\, and the worlds’\, premier producer of fine Samurai Yoroi Armor. Located in Satsuma-Sendai city of Japan’s southwestern Kagoshima prefecture\, the firm’s reputation for creating products of unparalleled quality has given them more than a 90-percent share of the Japanese armor market. From television dramas\, such as Yoshitsune\, to feature films\, including Akira Kurosawa’s classics\, Kagemusha\, and Ran\, Marutake Sangyo has shared the spirit of the Samurai with the world. Having produced thousands of suits of armor\, their clientele extends from the entertainment industry to temples\, museums and even the Queen of England. \nJapanese Hina Doll Display\nAlso known as Hinamatsuri\, “girl’s day” is celebrated each year on March 3. During this holiday\, families wish for the health and happiness of their daughters and display Hina dolls in the home. A traditional Hinamatsuri doll set is on display at the festival. Japanese traditional dolls are known by the name Ningyo in Japan\, which literally means human shape. There are various types of Japanese dolls\, one traditional type is for festival celebrations such as Hinamatsuri\, the doll festival\, or Kodomo no Hi\, Children’s Day. \nChildren’s Day (Boy’s Warrior) Doll\nAlso on display is a beautiful “musha ningyo” warrior doll in a samurai costume. May 5 of each year is a National Holiday that celebrates Children’s Day in Japan. Originally the day was celebrated as “Boy’s Day” to correspond to the Doll Festival for Girls (where families display the Hina Dolls that is held on March 3. However\, the symbols of courage and strength mainly honor boys on May 5. It is the custom for families with male children to fly Koinobori (large fish flags) outside of the home. They represent a symbol of success. Families also eat chimaki and kashiwamochi (different types of special rice cakes) and display warrior dolls (“musha ningyo”) in the home during this celebration.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/delicate-beauty-fierce-devotion-samurai-armor-festival-dolls-of-japan/
LOCATION:RC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Exhibits & Displays
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/hina-doll-display.jpg
GEO:38.924339003741;-94.72682117767
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T170000
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20240922T193741Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T204001Z
UID:10000207-1759572000-1759597200@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Yukata and Kimono Kitsuke Portraits
DESCRIPTION:MTC 122 • First Floor\nYukata and Kimono Kitsuke Portraits\nVolunteers will dress you in authentic Kimono or Yukata and take your picture with your camera/phone in front of a Japanese Backdrop.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/yukata-and-kimono-kitsuke-portraits/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Special Activities
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T225000
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20250911T204717Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251004T000730Z
UID:10000235-1759572000-1759618200@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japanese Mask Workshop
DESCRIPTION:THIS IS A TICKETED WORKSHOP\nMTC 234 • 2nd Floor • 10:00 AM\, 11:30 AM\, 2:00 PM\nPurchase your ticketed workshops here. \nJapanese Mask Workshop\nParticipants in this workshop will explore the fascinating world of Japanese folklore linked to the prominent masks in Japanese culture and stories.\nEach participant will design and paint either a fox or a cat mask with additional options to personalize their mask with elastic\, tassels\, and decorative bells. All supplies are provided. \nEach workshop is 50 min in length\, limited to 25 participants\, and is best suited for ages 6 or older. One guardian is allowed to be admitted with a youth age 12 or younger.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japanese-mask-workshop/2025-10-04/1/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Japanese-Mask-Workshop.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T110000
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20231002T145618Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250725T153718Z
UID:10000104-1759573800-1759575600@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Opening Ceremony
DESCRIPTION:The Opening Ceremonies will include music\, introduction and remarks by distinguished guests and the ritual of Kagami-wari – the breaking of a sake barrel and toast to open the festival.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/opening-ceremonies/
LOCATION:MTC: Yardley Hall
GEO:38.925129218653;-94.727653607154
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T110000
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20240919T184917Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T144023Z
UID:10000263-1759573800-1759575600@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Furoshiki Gift Wrapping Workshop
DESCRIPTION:NMOCA 212 • Nerman Museum • 2nd Floor\nFuroshiki Gift Wrapping Workshop\nInstructed by Keiko Kira\nFuroshiki is a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth used to wrap gifts and everyday objects for transportation. Furoshiki originated in Japan\, and was originally used to wrap and transport clothes to the public baths — or furo.\nKeiko uses recycled polyester furoshiki that are a beautiful\, fun\, and sustainable alternative to disposable wrapping paper. With multiple uses beyond gift wrapping\, it’s the gift that keeps on giving. Learn to wrap\, tie\, and repurpose a furoshiki in this informative and fun workshop.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/furoshiki-gift-wrapping-workshop/2025-10-04/1/
LOCATION:Nerman: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/furoshiki-Keiko-Kira.jpg
GEO:38.924880809544;-94.726821038974
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T111500
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20250929T151901Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T154439Z
UID:10000266-1759573800-1759576500@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Anime Screening: Princess Tutu
DESCRIPTION:Nerman • Hudson Auditorium • Second Floor\nAnime Screening: Princess Tutu\nPrincess Tutu is a dark\, metaphorical fairy tale and magical girl anime about a duck named Ahiru who\, granted a pendant by the mysterious Drosselmeyer\, can transform into the ballerina Princess Tutu. Tasked with collecting the scattered shards of Prince Muto’s broken heart to restore his emotions\, Ahiru discovers she is a character trapped in an unfinished story. The series uses ballet\, classical music\, and themes of fate\, free will\, and self-discovery to tell a complex story about characters who struggle against their predetermined roles and seek to define their own destinies.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/anime-screening-princess-tutu/
LOCATION:Nerman: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Anime Screenings
GEO:38.924880809544;-94.726821038974
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T112000
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20250926T142154Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T215839Z
UID:10000245-1759573800-1759576800@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Godzilla in America: Japan's Monster in Western Cinema
DESCRIPTION:GEB 233 • Craig Auditorium • 10:30 AM\nGodzilla in America: Japan’s Monster in Western Cinema\nTalk by Dr. Michael Charlton\, Missouri Western State University\nA Fun exploration of how Godzilla and Godzilla films have been adapted for Western audiences over the past 70 years.\n  \n\nAbout Dr. Michael Charlton\nDr. Charlton is the Vice Provost\, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs\, Professor of English at Missouri Western State University. He has published a wide variety of works on topics related to television\, film\, video games\, and comics. \n  \n  \n\n  \nGodzilla 1954 Image Credit: Toho Co.\, Ltd \n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/godzilla-in-america/
LOCATION:GEB: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Godzilla-1954.jpg
GEO:38.924261110731;-94.729228437157
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T113000
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20220926T221400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250928T212749Z
UID:10000007-1759573800-1759577400@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Shakuhachi Workshop
DESCRIPTION:MTC 224 •  2nd Floor\nShakuhachi Workshop\nInstructed by David Kansuke Wheeler\nLearn how to play the Japanese bamboo flute during this workshop with master David Kansuke Wheeler.\n\nAbout David Kansuke Wheeler\nDavid Kansuke Wheeler is a musician and musicologist. David visited Japan in 1977 as an exchange student and entered the tutelage of shakuhachi master Junsuke Kawase III. In 1981\, he returned to Japan on a Japanese Education Ministry scholarship to do graduate study at the Tokyo University of Fine Arts and Music\, where he received his M. A. in musicology in 1985. \nDavid has spent many decades immersed in the world of classical shakuhachi (bamboo flute)\, both during his long residence in Japan and now in the US. He now works to present this fascinating instrument and its musical charms to international audiences. \nSince 1982\, David has been performing\, teaching\, lecturing\, and writing about the shakuhachi and Japanese music both in Japan and around the world and has made numerous performance appearances on Japanese television and radio.\nWhile he specializes in the classical traditions of Sankyoku ensemble and Kinko-ryu Honkyoku\, his performance activities cover the full range of music today; everything from Japanese to Western\, from classical to the avant garde. \nDavid was a visiting Japanese music lecturer and shakuhachi instructor at the College of Music at the University of Colorado\, where he co-organized and prepared the World Shakuhachi Festival 1998 (July 5-11) at CU Boulder\, and also lectures and instructs students at Naropa University. \nIn addition to performing and teaching\, he also organizes and produces major events including World Shakuhachi Festivals and Shakuhachi Study Camps. His performances with koto player Yoko Hiraoka are well known. He has made great contributions to the Kansas City Japan Festival in the past\, and we hope he will continue with us. He lives in Boulder\, Colorado\, and teaches\, lectures and performs around the US\, in Japan and elsewhere.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/shakuhachi-workshop-with-david-kansuke-wheeler/2025-10-04/1/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/WheelerWorkshop-1200.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T113000
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20221001T152841Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T135400Z
UID:10000043-1759573800-1759577400@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:A Look at Japanese Game Shows on American Television
DESCRIPTION:GEB 258 • Second Floor\nA Look at Japanese Game Shows on American Television\nJoshua Murphy\nIn this presentation\, Joshua Murphy will look at Japanese Game and Variety Shows and their effect on the American television landscape.\nTakeshi’s Castle\, Ninja Warrior\, Ultra Quiz\, Shark Tank and America’s Funniest Home videos are some of the shows that will be discussed and seen in this panel. \nJoshua Murphy is a Historian who has interviewed over 100 television personalities\, producers\, and distributors. He has been a Japanese Gameshow fan for over a decade and has been studying Japanese Gameshows for over ten years.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/a-look-at-japanese-game-shows-on-american-television/
LOCATION:GEB: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations
GEO:38.924261110731;-94.729228437157
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T153000
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20221001T155535Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T135042Z
UID:10000055-1759573800-1759591800@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:The Games of Go and Shogi
DESCRIPTION:GEB 256 • Second Floor\nThe Games of Go and Shogi\nLed by Steve Woodsmall & Greater Kansas City Go Club (Daniel Gentry)\nCome to this workshop to play actual games\, see demonstrations and competition games\, and hear a brief discussion of the history and rules of “go” and “shogi.”\nLearn about the game “go” that inspires laughter and anger\, love and obsession; that creates and destroys worlds. Based on three simple rules\, it is the game that inspired the world-famous series “Hikaru no Go.” \nSteve Woodsmall is an international attorney who lived and worked in Japan for 12 years. He learned to play “go” and “shogi” during that time. \nDaniel Gentry has played “go” for over 23 years and has achieved a ranking of Shodan. Daniel started playing “go” in 1999 and has taught and promoted “go” at the KC Japan Festival and in the Kansas City area for many years.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/the-games-of-go-and-shogi/
LOCATION:GEB: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Special Activities,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/goandshoji-e1663282018651.jpg
GEO:38.924261110731;-94.729228437157
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T113000
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20231002T185607Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250928T203935Z
UID:10000157-1759575600-1759577400@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Fun with Japanese for Kids
DESCRIPTION:MTC 126A • 1st Floor\nFun with Japanese for Kids\nKotoko Grass\nIn this beginning workshop\, kids will learn to say various everyday phrases and how to read some basic Japanese\, all through fun activities.\nWho wants a head start in learning Japanese in this first-level workshop? This 40-minute class is for elementary school-age children. Participants will learn to say various everyday phrases and how to read some basic Japanese\, all through fun activities. \nGuardians\, please stand by at the site the whole time. (Limited to 13 children due to the classroom size.)
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/fun-with-japanese/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T115000
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20250924T190044Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T220039Z
UID:10000238-1759575600-1759578600@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:The Noh Mask Reimagined: From Tradition to the Mona Lisa
DESCRIPTION:MTC 211 • 2nd Floor • 11:00 AM\nThe Noh Mask Reimagined: From Tradition to the Mona Lisa\nTalk by Dr. Kris Imants Ercums\nKansas University Spencer Museum of Art\, Curator of Global Contemporary and Asian Art \nThis talk explores the transformation of tradition in the art of Noh mask carving\, focusing on masks from the Spencer Museum of Art’s collection and the contemporary work of master carver Bidou Yamaguchi.\nRooted in centuries-old techniques and the austere beauty of classical Noh theater\, traditional masks embody the Japanese aesthetic of yūgen—a subtle\, mysterious depth that hints at the unseen. Yamaguchi\, a formally trained Noh mask maker\, honors this tradition while expanding its expressive potential. Over the past decade\, he has turned his gaze toward iconic figures of Western art\, such as the Mona Lisa and Girl with a Pearl Earring\, reimagining them as Noh masks infused with yūgen. Most recently\, he has introduced a bold new category: “persona” masks\, which draw on contemporary and historical Western portraiture to explore questions of identity and cultural hybridity. Through a close examination of historic and contemporary masks\, this talk reflects on how inherited forms are reactivated through cross-cultural engagement and artistic innovation. Yamaguchi’s work not only bridges East and West but also deepens our understanding of how tradition can be a dynamic and living force in global contemporary art. \n\nAbout Kris Imants Ercums\nKris Imants Ercums is Curator of Global Contemporary and Asian Art at the Spencer Museum of Art\, where he has curated over 30 exhibitions and 12 artist residencies since 2007. His curatorial practice focuses on Japanese art and visual culture\, with recent projects engaging contemporary ceramics\, postwar painting\, and performance. Upcoming exhibitions include Form and Flux: Contemporary Ceramics from Asia and Brush\, Block\, and Blood: Three Generations of Yoshida Women Printmakers. He earned his PhD in Chinese art history from the University of Chicago in 2014 and is currently co-curating Street Nihonga: The Art of Jimmy Tsutomu Mirikitani with Maki Kaneko\, opening February 2026. \n  \n\n\nMask Image Credit: Bidou Yamaguchi | Artist
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/the-noh-mask-reimagined/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations,Masks & Myths Theme
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/noh-masks-reimagined.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T120000
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20250928T205621Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250928T205621Z
UID:10000255-1759575600-1759579200@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japanese: Meeting\, Greeting & Daily Expressions
DESCRIPTION:MTC 126B • 1st Floor\nJapanese Meeting\, Greeting & Daily Expressions\nInstructed by Maki Gonzalez\nAttend this Japanese language workshop to learn important phrases for meetings\, greetings and other daily expressions.\n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japanese-meeting-greeting-daily-expressions/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T120000
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20250929T133131Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T133231Z
UID:10000259-1759575600-1759579200@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japanese Travel Conversation Workshop
DESCRIPTION:OCB 246 • Second Floor\nJapanese Travel Conversation Workshop\nInstructed by Isoko Durbin\nA language workshop to learn about the basic travel conversations in Japanese.\n  \n\n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japanese-travel-conversation-workshop/2025-10-04/1/
LOCATION:OCB: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
GEO:38.924376922342;-94.72850289963
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T111500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T114500
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20220927T145158Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250729T161324Z
UID:10000012-1759576500-1759578300@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Three Trails Taiko Performance
DESCRIPTION:MTC: Yardley Hall\nThree Trails Taiko Performance\nThree Trails Taiko is a community group\, currently consisting of approximately twelve volunteers. They have performed for local festivals\, relief events\, libraries\, organizations and business events in Greater Kansas City area. Their goal is to become better taiko players in mind\, body\, and spirit while sharing the tradition\, culture and art of Kumi Daiko and Japan with the surrounding community. Three Trails Taiko is available to perform for various events. Please visit www.threetrailstaiko.com for more information.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/three-trails-taiko/2025-10-04/1/
LOCATION:MTC: Yardley Hall
CATEGORIES:Performances
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/three-trails-taiko-1200.jpg
GEO:38.925129218653;-94.727653607154
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T111500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T120000
DTSTAMP:20260626T190929
CREATED:20250929T152456Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T152456Z
UID:10000267-1759576500-1759579200@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Anime Screening: Senryu Girl
DESCRIPTION:Nerman • Hudson Auditorium • Second Floor\nAnime Screening: Senryu Girl\nSenryu Girl is a Japanese comedy anime and manga series about Nanako Yukishiro\, a cheerful high school girl who communicates solely through written senryu poems (5-7-5 syllable poems focused on people and emotions) instead of speaking\, and her budding romance with an ex-delinquent best friend\, Eiji Busujima\, as they navigate their school life and literature club activities.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/anime-screening-senryu-girl/
LOCATION:Nerman: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Anime Screenings
GEO:38.924880809544;-94.726821038974
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR