Shikaoi Exchange - Town of Stony Plain

02/18/2026

Don't miss out on the chance of a lifetime! Submit your application to be a part of our July Student Delegation to Shikaoi, Japan. Deadline to apply is March 6, 2026. For more details and to find the application visit: www.stonyplain.com/japan

02/09/2026

Explore a new country while gaining valuable international experience as an Assistant Language Teacher in Shikaoi, Japan

Educators, recent graduates, and English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers are invited to take part in this rewarding opportunity, offering hands-on classroom experience, professional growth, and meaningful community engagement. Participants will provide support to Shikaoi's English education, immerse themselves in daily life, and build cross-cultural connections and friendships that will stand the test of time and distance.

This program provides international teaching experience, cultural exchange, and the opportunity to develop lasting global connections while living and working in a welcoming community.

Learn more and request an application package at:
https://www.stonyplain.com/japan

12/28/2025

We mourn the passing of former Mayor of Shikaoi, Mayor Yoshida, a true visionary whose leadership helped shape the relationship we know today between our two communities.

During his time in office, former Mayor Yoshida championed the Shikaoi exchange program with passion and dedication, believing deeply in the power of cultural exchange to bring people together. Through his efforts, lasting friendships were formed between our communities—connections that continue to enrich lives of residents from both communities to this day.

His forward-thinking leadership laid the foundation for many of the programs we benefit from now. The addition of the Long stay program, the construction of the SS house to name a few. More than policies or projects, former Mayor Yoshida leaves behind a legacy of collaboration, openness, and hope for the future.

On behalf of Stony Plain Council and residents, we are grateful for former Mayor Yoshida’s service, his vision, and his unwavering belief in community. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, the Town of Shikaoi staff and all those whose lives were touched by his work.

Mayor William Choy

10/14/2025

Today we said farewell to our Shikoai guests. Over the last 10 days, they became a part of our families and our homes feel emptier and quieter.

This is not goodbye, this is until we see you again.
またね

10/14/2025

It's been a fun-filled weekend doing so many different activities. Hockey games, horseback riding, shopping, corn maze, Pumpkins After Dark, mini golf, Muttart Conservatory, smores, board games, and of course Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends. What a great way to wrap up our student delegation this year.

10/12/2025

So much fun being had by everyone!! We love seeing all the different activities everyone has been up to.

10/09/2025

Just a little snippet of some of the fun things our host families have been doing with students the last couple of days.

10/08/2025

Even though we had to adjust our schedule the students still got to spend time touring .

10/07/2025

Our student delegation had a great time visiting this morning and teaching the students there about different Japanese culture and games.

After lunch, we enjoyed a mural tour downtown Stony that also included a visit to Shikaoi Park, the Town Office, , , and the Glenn Hall arena.

10/06/2025

It's been a great first weekend with our Shikaoi guests!

10/04/2025

07/29/2025

After early morning tearful goodbyes to our new families and friends we started our journey back home.

It only took 2 bus rides, 3 plane rides, hours of layover time, sprinting through an airport to get to a last-minute changed gate, and traveling 9,284 km, we are back home. We are exhausted, and we are happy to see our loved ones.

Thank you Shikaoi for a wonderful time.