The Oklahoma Route 66 Association and the Route 66 Association of Japan announced this week they had formed an ambassadorship.
More information from a story from the Oklahoma association:
Working together, the two associations hope to increase awareness of Oklahoma’s unique culture for Japanese travelers while also bringing opportunities to experience Japan’s cultural traditions to America’s heartland. […]
Both organizations recognize there is an opportunity to promote Oklahoma’s stretch of Route 66 to Japanese travelers interested in exploring the United States.
“We are very honored to be appointed as an official ambassador of Oklahoma Route 66 Association and feel that we have been given a valuable opportunity,” said Toshi Goto, President of the Route 66 Association of Japan. “We believe Oklahoma is one of the leading states in the Route 66 preservation movement, and we always respect their passion and vigor, so working with them will be very helpful in furthering the development and awareness of our Association.” […]
Toshi Goto also announced that the Japanese Association will be participating in Tulsa’s AAA Route 66 Road Fest in 2024.
The Oklahoma Route 66 Association said that they will ensure that their Trip Guide and any other materials are made available for Japanese travelers as they are planning their trips. Both groups will work together to identify ways to improve communication and identify collaborative opportunities.
Oklahoma Route 66 Association President Rhys Martin added, “This is the start of something special. Route 66 has long been referred to as a ‘linear community’ and this is a great example of that in action. We’re very pleased to do anything we can to make the road a richer and more fulfilling experience for everyone.”
Earlier this year, the Japanese association and Japanese producer Hiroshi Kono took a trip on Route 66 with the chindon’ya band Bentenya, filming it for a documentary.
The volunteer-driven Route 66 Association of Japan, founded in 2015, totals about 50 members.
(Image from the Route 66 Association of Japan’s Facebook page)