Locations: Isesaki, Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Miyajima
Dates: Sunday, October 27-Wednesday, November 6, 2019
Accommodations: Home stays and business class hotels
Cost: $3,800 (includes airfare, lodging, most meals, ground transportation and admission for group excursions, guides/translators)
Deposit: $1,000 and image of passport
Questions: 417-874-2952
Informational Meeting (not required): Tuesday, May 28, 2019 at 4:30pm, Springfield Botanical Center, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, MO
Schedule:
Sunday, October 27: Travel to Narita Airport
Monday, October 28: Arrive at Narita, travel to Isesaki, Isesaki activities
Tuesday, October 29: Isesaki activities
Wednesday, October 30: Isesaki activities
Thursday, October 31: Isesaki activities
Friday, November 1: Travel to Kyoto, Kyoto activities
Saturday, November 2: Kyoto activities
Sunday, November 3: Travel to Hiroshima, Hiroshima activities
Monday, November 4: Travel to Miyajima, Miyajima activities, travel to Tokyo
Tuesday, November 5: Free day in Tokyo
Wednesday, November 6: Travel to Springfield
We will spend the first part of the trip in Isesaki staying with host families as arranged by Isesaki City Hall, International Affairs Division. When in Isesaki, our schedule will include exchanges between city officials and will likely include a traditional tea ceremony, a learning opportunity with Isesaki gardeners, and other cultural experiences. You will also have free time to spend with your host family; this is always the highlight of our trips.
Additional details on activities will be posted as they are established.
Traveling with Sister Cities
This trip is organized and led by Lisa Bakerink, Executive Director of Friends of the Garden.
When you travel with Springfield Sister Cities, you are an ambassador of Springfield in fulfillment of the SSCA mission of Peace Through People. Many years have gone into building relationships with friends in Isesaki. Because of this rich history, your experience traveling with Sister Cities as an ambassador is unlike any other. You will experience rich traditions beyond what other visitors can and you will build amazing friendships. Appreciation, good will, patience, and love are essential to keep this wonderful program going.
More Information
Please contact lbakerink@springfieldmo.gov. You may also click here to join the “interested” list.
