Route 66 Association of Japan and Oklahoma Route 66 Association form ambassadorship

The Oklahoma Route 66 Association is proud to welcome the Route 66 Association of Japan as an official ambassador. 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.

The Route 66 Association of Japan was founded in 2015 and has about 50 members. Like the Oklahoma Route 66 Association, they are volunteer-led and are focused on preserving the road through promotion and engagement. 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.”

Earlier this year, the Association and Japanese producer Hiroshi Kono took a whirlwind tour down Route 66 with the chindon'ya band Bentenya, filming their journey for a documentary. “We are truly honored,” Hiroshi said about the announcement. “We would like not only to learn and discover the tradition, people, and culture of Historic Route 66 but also contribute something meaningful to carry on its legacy and develop it into a brighter future.”

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.”

You can learn more about the Route 66 Association of Japan at their Facebook page here.