Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there even a Japanese Population in Kansas City?

We do have a Japanese population. Unlike some larger cities closer to the coast, Kansas City does not have a Japanese or Asian neighborhood, but there are a lot of fine Japanese people working in various professions in the area. Here are some links of census data taken for the year 2000.

Compare these populations with New York City, Denver Colorado, Los Angeles California, St. Louis Missouri, or Atlanta, Georgia.

What are the Japan-America Society (JAS) meetings like?

We almost always have some sort of a presenter, and that can range from informative lectures, hands-on activities or something simple like sharing an experience. We also have pot-luck meetings where we bring food, eat and socialize. Meetings are generally tied to our cultural mission, increasing the understanding between Japan and the United States.

If you would like to attend a meeting, we encourage anyone to come and participate. All age groups and backgrounds are in the JAS. Non-members are welcome to attend events, but if you become a regular, why not join up as a member? It's fun!

We have a range from 25-50 members at each meeting. The meetings begin casually with snacks and drinks provided. We then will make announcements for a couple minutes. Afterwards a speaker will make a presentation for about 45 minutes on their topic. The meetings usually with everyone breaking off and chatting with new and old friends. It's a good time and you always learn something. We are a kind and social group.

What are the differences in the memberships?

You might have seen our different types of membership e.g. Contributing, Friend or Sustaining. These memberships were created by request when some people decided they wanted an easy way to donate a little more to the organization. Being a non-profit, your donation is tax deductable if you choose to donate above a traditional membership.

Are there only Japanese people at your meetings / events?

There is always a mix of Americans and Japanese at every meeting. Sometimes there are more Americans and sometimes more Japanese. It's constantly evolving, and we like it that way.

I'm trying to find some Asian grocery stores that I can buy some Japanese goods. Where can I find them?

Doing a quick Google Map search was the best thing we could think of to get the most current results. Check out Asian Markets Kansas City, via google maps. Occasionally JAS members have been spotted at the Oriental Supermarket on Metcalf.

Do you have any Japanese Language schools in Kansas City?

We have several places where anyone interested can learn Japanese in the Greater Kansas City area. Some high schools offer it such as some of the Shawnee Mission and Olathe Schools. College Students can learn Japanese at Johnson County Community College, UMKC, and the University of Kansas (KU). There is also a Children's Japanese school (Hoshuko) part of the Center for International Studies.

Does Kansas City have any Japanese Restaurants?

Of course! Our members are occasionally spotted at the following restaurants:

Check out the AOL best rated Japanese Restaurants for 2006

Why did the Japanese Consulate in Kansas City close down in 2004?

The Consulate General of Japan is funded by the Japanese government. In 2003, decisions were made to redirect funding in several Consulates in the United States. Because Chicago Illinois is hub for Japanese air travel and is also centrally located, it was decided that the Chicago Consulate would enlarge its midwest responsibility. Despite no longer having a consulate in town to manage certain affairs, things have gone quite smoothly. The Chicago consulate has been very supportive to Kansas City having representatives traveling here numerous times a year to meet with organizations and also to provide "satellite" services to residents and students official documents e.g. passports and visa translation and other immigration documents.

My family is hosting a Japanese friend, relative, student coming up soon. Can you recommend things we can do to welcome them and make their stay as pleasant as possible?

Now that is a tough one to answer in a small space. Read our article on being Host Families.

KCJAS.org is the official website of the Heart of America Japan-America Society. We are based in Kansas City, where our members are both Kansas and Missouri Residents.

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General Meetings take place regularly on the 3rd or 4th Tuesday of every month. Meeting Schedules are published in the Nichibei News to Society members. Most General meetings are held at the Loose Park Garden Center in Kansas City Missouri.

Loose Park is located at Wornall and 52nd Street. Google Map with Street View

Consulate General of Japan Chicago