Japan Village in Brooklyn is hosting a rare opportunity to shop Yamazaki Home favorites at 40–60% off. Discover minimal, thoughtful design at exclusive price points, only while supplies last!

From entryway essentials to kitchen must-haves, explore a curated selection of open-box items priced at just $5 to $100 (+ tax). Quantities are limited. Arrive early for the best selection.

About Yamazaki Home

Yamazaki Home is a sleek Japanese housewares brand known for its minimalist and functional products that keep in mind small spaces and the need for organization. Learn more about them at their website and follow them on Instagram.

Support JapanCulture•NYC by becoming a member! For $5 a month, you’ll help maintain the high quality of our site while we continue to showcase and promote the activities of our vibrant community. Please click here to begin your membership today!

Susan McCormac 8/21/25 Susan McCormac 8/21/25

JapanCulture•NYC & Kaede Kimonos to host Pre-Halloween Bash

Kaede Kimonos and JapanCultureNYC are thrilled to announce we’re collaborating to present AkumuFest: An Interactive Japanese Horror Experience! On Saturday, October 25, Japan Village will come alive with Yokai in this immersive celebration of Japanese horror, fashion, folklore, and fandom.

AkumuFest: An Interactive Japanese Horror Experience

Kaede Kimonos and JapanCulture•NYC are thrilled to announce we’re collaborating to present AkumuFest: An Interactive Japanese Horror Experience! On Saturday, October 25, Japan Village will come alive with Yokai in this immersive celebration of Japanese horror, fashion, folklore, and fandom.

AkumuFest merges Japanese horror aesthetics with modern fandom through immersive storytelling, folklore-inspired fashion, and interactive experiences. Attendees are invited to dress in Japanese horror cosplay, kimono, or original yokai-themed attire.

Event Details

📅 Saturday, October 25, 2025

🕘 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 pm
🌑 AkumuFest After Dark: 6:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.

📍 Japan Village – 934 3rd Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11232

🎟️ Admission: Free

Presented By

👘 Kaede Kimonos & Japan Culture NYC

🎌 Under the patronage of Japan Village

Main Highlights

📖 Japanese Storytelling

👹 Cosplay Contest

🏮 Unique Vendors

🎤 Live Performers

🏯 Brooklyn’s First Night Parade of 100 Yokai

After Dark

✨ Stay with us for AKUMUFEST AFTER DARK ✨

🎶 Live Performances • 🎭 Comedians • 🎤 Special Guests

Register

If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, vendor, performer, or participant, please contact us! Email susan@japanculture-nyc.com with “AkumuFest Info” in the subject line.

Night Parade Volunteer Form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc6GIn96Mc4KowUnT90n8-lLrudaDLN5NhYwzecaJ4ITjZmHg/viewform

We’ll have more details and registration forms available soon, so please stay tuned!

Susan McCormac 8/19/25 Susan McCormac 8/19/25

Explaining Expo: LinkedIn Live with Yvonne Burton

JapanCulture•NYC is thrilled to continue our ongoing Expo 2025 Talk series with cross-cultural consultant Yvonne Burton of Burton Consulting International!

Expo 2025 Talk #5: A Conversation with Cross-Cultural Consultant Yvonne Burton

Wednesday, September 3 at 7:00 p.m. ET | 4:00 p.m. PT | Thursday, September 4 at 8:00 a.m. JST

LinkedIn Live

Admission: Free

JapanCulture•NYC is thrilled to continue our ongoing Expo 2025 Talk series with cross-cultural consultant Yvonne Burton of Burton Consulting International!

At the Heart of Expo: Countries and Connections

In Talk #5, Yvonne will update us on her most recent visits to Expo 2025, which now number more than 20! With two months remaining in the international exposition, how is Yvonne planning her final visits? Will she reveal her agenda?

Yvonne will also share her latest insights, show photos, and answer your questions in an interactive conversation that brings you closer to Expo 2025—even from afar! 💬 Have you visited Expo 2025? Share your observations with us! Bring your questions and join the live conversation in the comments!

Join the talk on LinkedIn Live: https://www.linkedin.com/events/expotalk-5withcross-culturalcon7366980410452373504/theater/

🎥 Missed our earlier talks? Catch up here

Talk 1: https://youtu.be/zd1fEp3SLLI
Talk 2: https://youtu.be/vF00yjNyPO4
Talk 3: https://youtu.be/bpenIQ5dROM?si=0EwThM4XrP765mw9
Talk 4: https://www.linkedin.com/events/expotalk-4withcrossculturalcons7346199577739378688/

📝 Read Yvonne’s Expo blog posts: burtonconsulting.biz/blog
🔗 Connect with Yvonne on LinkedIn: Yvonne Burton

Susan McCormac 7/20/25 Susan McCormac 7/20/25

Tak Furumoto: From Tule Lake to Hiroshima to Vietnam

Conversation with Tak Furumoto and Mayu Nakamura about Tule Lake, Hiroshima, and Vietnam

UPDATE: The original post stated that admission is $10 for non-USJC members, but this event is FREE to everyone! If you’d like to make a donation to USJC, please visit the organization’s donation page. JapanCulture•NYC regrets the error.

A Conversation with Tak Furumoto and NHK World Japan’s Mayu Nakamura

Tuesday, July 22 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:15 p.m. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.) | Live Stream from 6:00 p.m. until 7:15 p.m.

New York Buddhist Church – 331-332 Riverside Drive (between W. 105 and W. 106 Streets)

Admission: Free

The New York & Vicinity region of the U.S.-Japan Council is hosting a timely discussion, in person at the New York Buddhist Church and virtually.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War and the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. In recognition, NHK recently produced Raised in Hiroshima, Fought in Vietnam, a documentary profiling New York-based entrepreneur, Vietnam veteran, and activist Takeshi Furumoto. You can watch the documentary in English here (free) and in Japanese here (fee required).

The film’s director, Mayu Nakamura, will join Furumoto for a special behind-the-scenes conversation. Akemi Ooka, the executive producer and narrator of the Emmy award-winning film Three Boys Manzanar, will moderate.

Furumoto will reflect on his extraordinary life journey — from being born in the Tule Lake concentration camp to growing up in Hiroshima after the atomic bombing and later serving in the U.S. military during the Vietnam War. Nakamura will share insights into the making of the documentary and the importance of preserving stories like Furumoto’s, particularly in the context of today’s global challenges.

Following the conversation, in-person attendees will have an opportunity to network over light refreshments.

To register for this event, please send an email to membership@usjapancouncil.org.

For more information, please visit USJC’s website.

(Please note: The author is a member of U.S.-Japan Council and serves on the Communications Committee of the New York & Vicinity region.)

Susan McCormac 7/2/25 Susan McCormac 7/2/25

What Expo Means for Osaka’s Global Business Future

📣 We’re going live on LinkedIn!

On Monday, July 14 at 7:00 p.m. ET, I’ll be joined by cross-cultural consultant Yvonne Burton for our fourth Expo 2025 talk—this time focused on what the World Expo means for Osaka’s global business future.

Expo 2025 Talk #4: A Conversation with Cross-Cultural Consultant Yvonne Burton

Monday, July 14 at 7:00 p.m. ET | 4:00 p.m. PT | Tuesday, July 15 at 8:00 a.m. JST

LinkedIn Live

Admission: Free

JapanCulture•NYC is thrilled to continue our ongoing Expo 2025 Talk series with cross-cultural consultant Yvonne Burton of Burton Consulting International!

What Expo Means for Osaka’s Global Business Future

In Talk #4, Yvonne will focus on what Expo 2025 means for the city of Osaka in terms of global business opportunities, international visibility, and economic development. Yvonne will share observations from the Expo site, highlight what major companies and industries are showcasing, and offer insight into Japan’s strategy for engaging the world through this major international event. She’ll also share her latest insights, show photos, and answer your questions in an interactive conversation that brings you closer to Expo 2025—even from afar!

💡 Whether you work in international business, cross-cultural strategy, economic development, or are simply curious about Japan’s global presence—this conversation is for you.

Join the talk on LinkedIn Live: https://www.linkedin.com/events/7346199577739378688/about/

🎥 Missed our earlier talks? Catch up on YouTube:
• Talk 1: https://youtu.be/zd1fEp3SLLI
• Talk 2: https://youtu.be/vF00yjNyPO4
• Talk 3: https://youtu.be/bpenIQ5dROM?si=0EwThM4XrP765mw9

📝 Read Yvonne’s Expo blog posts: burtonconsulting.biz/blog
🔗 Connect with Yvonne on LinkedIn: Yvonne Burton

💬 Bring your questions and join the live conversation in the comments!

Night view of the Germany Pavilion at Expo 2025, Osaka, Kansai, Japan. Photo by Yvonne Burton.

Susan McCormac 6/20/25 Susan McCormac 6/20/25

Dance and Poetry of Japan Workshop

Sachiyo Ito and Company presents the culmination performance of her Dance and Poetry of Japan Workshop on Tuesday, June 24.

Culmination Performance of Dance and Poetry of Japan Workshop

Tuesday, June 24 from11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.

University Settlement's Neighborhood Center – 189 Allen Street (between Stanton and E. Houston Streets)

Admission: Free

Sachiyo Ito and Company presents the culmination performance of her Dance and Poetry of Japan Workshop on Tuesday, June 24. Participants will present the Japanese classical dance Yanagi no Wakaba (Young Leaves of Willows) and dances inspired by haiku and renku (linking verses). Special guest vocalist Beth Griffith will join to accompany the dances.

The program highlight is Sachiyo Ito’s work created for the Chinese community, titled Hiei Oroshi (Cold Wind from Mt. Hiei). Sung by Yong Jhong Jia from the Chinese Opera Theater with the Japanese melody, the work is choreographed to selected poems from Shajin-Shu, the collection of poems by Chinese poetesses.

The presentation will conclude with dance improvisations on haiku stanzas from the audience. Audiences are invited to bring their own haiku. A reception with refreshments will follow the program.

To reserve your spot, please send an email to sachiyoitoandcompany@gmail.com. (Please note: The venue has changed from 94 E. 1st Street to the current location of 189 Allen Street.)

Photo courtesy of Sachiyo Ito and Company

About the Dance and Poetry Workshop

Sachiyo Ito has conducted the free Dance and Poetry Workshop for the last ten years at several senior centers in Manhattan. Seniors from various cultural backgrounds who share a love for and interest in Japanese culture have attended.

The culmination concert showcases an example of artists’ efforts to unite the peoples of New York, known for its diversity in culture, ethnicity, and races.

Sachiyo Ito’s Memoir on JapanCulture-NYC.com

Sachiyo Ito has been serializing her memoir on JapanCulture•NYC, each chapter revealing a different aspect of her early life in Tokyo and career in New York City.

Ito offers of a profound exploration of the experience of dedicating herself to traditional Japanese dance at an early age, arriving in New York City during the tumultuous ‘70s, and making a successful career in the arts. Each chapter offers a glimpse into the complexities that shaped her journey. It is a literary examination of not only Ito Sensei’s life, but of how New York City’s culture evolved over the decades and what sacrifices one must make to achieve a thriving career in the arts.

The memoir is an invitation to delve into the layers of a creative life and career that has spanned more than 50 years. As a work in progress, it is also an invitation for you to offer your feedback. Your insights will contribute to the evolution of this extraordinary work.

To read all the chapters, please click here. For more information about Sachiyo Ito, please visit her website, dancejapan.com.

Susan McCormac 5/30/25 Susan McCormac 5/30/25

Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan Talk #3

JapanCulture•NYC is thrilled to continue our Expo 2025 Talk series with cross-cultural consultant Yvonne Burton of Burton Consulting International!

Yvonne has been on the ground in Osaka, exploring the site of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan. She’s visiting pavilions and reporting on the dynamic energy and discoveries at this once-in-a-lifetime global event.

Photo: Night view of the Netherlands Pavilion with Singapore in the background. Photo courtesy Yvonne Burton

Expo 2025 Talk #3: A Conversation with Cross-Cultural Consultant Yvonne Burton

Wednesday, June 11 at 8:00 p.m. ET | 5:00 p.m. PT | Thursday, June 12 at 9:00 a.m. JST

Zoom Meeting

Admission: Free (Registration Required)

JapanCulture•NYC is thrilled to continue our Expo 2025 Talk series with cross-cultural consultant Yvonne Burton of Burton Consulting International!

In Talk #3, Yvonne will share her latest insights, show photos, and answer your questions in an interactive conversation that brings you closer to Expo 2025—even from afar!

Previous Sessions

If you missed the previous sessions, catch up here:
📺 Talk #1 Recording on YouTube
📺 Talk #2 Recording on YouTube
🎥 Watch previous Instagram Lives: @JapanCultureNYC
📝 Read Yvonne’s Expo blog posts: burtonconsulting.biz/blog
🔗 Connect with Yvonne on LinkedIn: Yvonne Burton

Prepare and Register

Have a question for Yvonne?
📧 Email susan@japanculture-nyc.com or DM us on Instagram @JapanCultureNYC.

🎟 Register for Talk #3 here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/zKIDr2rxQYODO6fMXHKeUg

Susan McCormac 5/27/25 Susan McCormac 5/27/25

Yankees/Dodgers Watch Party

Bring your cheers and business cards. Watch Aaron Judge and the Bronx Bombers take on Shohei Ohtani and the World Champion Los Angeles Dodgers in a regular season showdown at Dodger Stadium. View all the action on multiple screens throughout the Pub's 2nd floor. Enjoy beer and food and network with fellow young professionals and members.

JCCI & JAA Young Professionals Networking and Baseball Watch Party

Playwright Irish Pub – 27 W. 35th Street (between 5th and 6th Avenues), 2nd Floor

Saturday, May 31 – Doors Open at 6:00 p.m., Game Starts at 7:10 p.m. ET | 4:10 p.m. PT

Admission: $20

On the heels of a successful Japanese and Japanese American Community Night at Citi Field on May 23, which had a one hour and 38-minute rain delay and several extra innings between the Dodgers and the Mets, the Young Professionals of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry and The Japanese American Association of New York are hosting a watch party of Saturday’s matchup between the Mets’ cross-town rivals, the Yankees, against the Dodgers.

About the Event

Admission

Cost to enter is $20, which includes one free drink. Organizers will collect payment at the door, but please register at this link or email info@jcciny.org.

There will be a 5th Inning raffle for New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers merchandise and game tickets. Raffle tickets are $10 each.

Please note: Cash only for admission and raffle tickets.

Susan McCormac 5/23/25 Susan McCormac 5/23/25

Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan Talk #2

Join JapanCultureNYC for Part 2 of my live conversation with cross-cultural consultant Yvonne Burton reporting from Osaka, Japan, where she’s been exploring the site of Expo 2025!

Expo 2025 Talk: A Conversation with Cross-Cultural Consultant Yvonne Burton – Part 2

Wednesday, May 28 at 8:00 p.m. ET | 5:00 p.m. PT | In Japan: Thursday, May 29 at 9:00 a.m.

Zoom

Admission: Free (Registration Required)

On May 13 JapanCultureNYC and cross-cultural consultant Yvonne Burton of Burton Consulting International held a special live Zoom conversation from Japan, where she’s been exploring Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan. We had so much fun, we’re doing it again!

Yvonne has been on the ground, visiting pavilions, observing the process, and soaking up the energy at this year’s World Expo. Prior to the event, Yvonne joined JapanCultureNYC for two Instagram Live tours—one at night, the other during the day—and gave us insightful tours.

On Zoom, Yvonne will share highlights, show photos, and answer your questions about what she’s learned so far. Curious about what Japan is showcasing to the world? Wondering how Osaka prepared for millions of visitors? Don’t miss this insightful and interactive session!

What to See

📺 Watch the first Zoom session on @JapanCulture-NYC’s YouTube channel
📌 Watch the recordings of our Instagram Lives on @JapanCultureNYC’s feed
📝 Read Yvonne’s blog posts from each visit at burtonconsulting.biz/blog
🔗 Connect with her on LinkedIn: Yvonne Burton

📧 Have questions for Yvonne? Email susan@japanculture-nyc.com or DM @JapanCultureNYC

Register in advance

🔗 Click here to register on Zoom

Susan McCormac 5/20/25 Susan McCormac 5/20/25

JapanCulture•NYC Turns 14!

JapanCulture•NYC launched 14 years ago today! Let’s celebrate bridging New York to Japanese culture!

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Community

May 20, 2025 marks the 14th anniversary of JapanCulture-NYC.com!

It’s hard to believe that what began as a small passion project in 2011 has grown into a trusted resource for All Things Japanese in New York City. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of covering a wide range of events—from traditional tea ceremonies and sake tastings to contemporary art exhibitions, film premieres, concerts, and community festivals.

At the heart of it all has been one goal: to connect people through culture.

I’m endlessly grateful to everyone who has read an article, shared a post, attended an event I featured, or reached out with a kind word. Your support and enthusiasm keep this platform going. Whether you're a long-time follower or a recent reader, thank you for being part of this journey.

I'm also deeply appreciative of the artists, performers, chefs, scholars, community leaders, and organizers who have allowed me to share their work. Your stories are what make JapanCulture-NYC meaningful.

As I look ahead, I’m more committed than ever to spotlighting the richness and diversity of Japanese culture in New York. There are still so many stories to tell—and I can’t wait to keep telling them.

Thank you for 14 amazing years!

With gratitude,
Susan Miyagi McCormac
Founder and Editor-in-Chief, JapanCulture-NYC

Susan McCormac 5/14/25 Susan McCormac 5/14/25

Dodgers vs Mets on Japanese & Japanese American Community Night at Citi Field

Catch the Los Angeles Dodgers vs the New York Mets on Japanese and Japanese American Community Night at Citi Field!

Japanese and Japanese American Community Night

Friday, May 23 at 7:10 p.m. | Pregame Ceremonies at 5:45 p.m.

Citi Field – Flushing, Queens

Admission: $63.25 to $232.50

Kick off Memorial Day weekend in a memorable way on Friday, May 23 as Kodai Senga and the New York Mets host reigning National League MVP Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Roki Sasaki and the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers at Citi Field.

Once again, The Japanese American Association of New York, the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), The Nippon Club, Japan Society, U.S.-Japan Council, and the Japanese American National Museum (JANM) will host Japanese and Japanese American Community Night, celebrating the strong bond between the U.S. and Japan through our shared love of baseball.

Pregame Activities

Taiko Drumming
Soh Daiko in Tom Seaver Plaza from 5:45 p.m. until 6:15 p.m.
Amazin' Awards Presentation to Community Leaders
Gary S. Moriwaki – Japan Society Board Member
Masaaki Maeda – Vice President & Assistant Secretary, JCCI
Koji Sato – President, The Japanese American Association of America, Inc.
Darin Arita – Co-Chair, New York & Vicinity Region, U.S.-Japan Council
Kathryn Bannai – Member of the Board of Trustees, JANM
First Pitch Thrown by a Dignitary in the Japanese and Japanese American Community
Pitcher: Tetsuo Kawate – Former JCCI President, President & CEO, Mitsubishi Corporations (Americas)
Catcher: Dr. Joshua Walker – President & CEO, Japan Society

The Mets are offering discount tickets to the Japanese and Japanese American community for the entire three-game series. Click this link https://www.gofevo.com/group/JJANight2025 to purchase tickets. With each purchase, $10 will be donated to the Japanese community organization of your choice, which you will select upon checkout.

Susan McCormac 5/9/25 Susan McCormac 5/9/25

Dive into Expo 2025 with Yvonne Burton

Join JapanCulture•NYC for a special Zoom conversation with Yvonne Burton, founder of Burton Consulting International, reporting live from Osaka, where she’s been exploring Expo 2025!

Live from Osaka: A Conversation with Cross-Cultural Consultant Yvonne Burton on Expo 2025

Tuesday, May 13 at 8:00 p.m. ET | Wednesday, May 14 at 9:00 a.m. in Japan

Live on Zoom

Admission: Free (Registration Required)

Join JapanCulture•NYC for a special live Zoom conversation with cross-cultural consultant Yvonne Burton of Burton Consulting International, streaming in from Osaka, Japan, where she’s been exploring Expo 2025!

Yvonne has been on the ground, visiting pavilions, observing preparations, and soaking up the energy at this year’s World Expo. She previously joined JapanCultureNYC for two Instagram Live tours—one at night, the other during the day—to give us a tour.

Yvonne Burton of Burton Consulting International on the Ring at Expo 2025 in Osaka

📌 Watch the recordings of our Instagram Lives on @JapanCultureNYC’s feed
📝 Read Yvonne’s blog posts from each visit at burtonconsulting.biz/blog
🔗 Connect with her on LinkedIn: Yvonne Burton

📧 Have questions for Yvonne? Email susan@japanculture-nyc.com or DM @JapanCultureNYC

Register in advance:
🔗 Click here to register on Zoom

Susan McCormac 5/7/25 Susan McCormac 5/7/25

Japan Parade Returns to Celebrate NYC’s Friendship with Japan

Join thousands on the Upper West Side for the 4th annual Japan Parade and Street Fair on Saturday, May 10! Celebrate Japanese culture with taiko drumming, traditional dance, cosplay, Hello Kitty, and an appearance by Grand Marshal Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. With more than 110 groups marching and JAPAN Fes hosting a Japanese food and culture fair, this free event is one of NYC’s most vibrant celebrations of Japan.

Japan Parade

Saturday, May 10 from1:00 p.m. until 3:30 p.m.

Parade Route: Central Park West from 81st to 67th Street

Street Fair: 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on 72nd Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue

Admission: Free

New York City’s celebration of Japanese culture takes over the Upper West Side this Saturday with the fourth annual Japan Parade and Street Fair. This vibrant event showcases the richness and diversity of Japanese culture and serves as a heartfelt "thank you" from the Japanese community to NYC.

Leading the Parade as Grand Marshal is none other than Chef Masaharu Morimoto, the Iron Chef whose culinary empire spans the globe. “I am deeply honored,” says Morimoto. “This role gives me a unique opportunity to celebrate and share the rich, dynamic culture of Japan with the heart of one of the world's most vibrant cities.”

Joining him is this year’s Community Leader, Koji Sato, President of The Japanese American Association of New York. News correspondent Sandra Endo, a former reporter and anchor at NY1, is serving as emcee once again.

Highlights

A major highlight this year is the live appearance by the cast of Attack on Titan: The Musical, the 2.5D stage adaptation of Hajime Isayama’s internationally beloved manga. Paradegoers can catch performers portraying fan favorites such as Levi, Hange Zoë, and Erwin Smith.

Pop culture fans can also look out for Sayaka Yamamoto, former captain of NMB48 turned solo singer-songwriter, and the always-adorable Hello Kitty, joined by My Melody and Kuromi, celebrating milestone anniversaries.

The Parade lineup features more than 110 groups and floats with more than 2,700 participants—the largest in the Parade’s four-year history. Expect lively performances from taiko drummers (Soh Daiko, COBU, Taiko Masala Dojo), yosakoi and folk dancers, gospel singers, and martial artists. Students from Japanese schools in New York and New Jersey will also march, along with Anime NYC cosplayers and a delegation from Toyama City, led by Mayor Hirohisa Fujii.

STREET FAIR

Before the Parade, explore the Japan Street Fair starting at 11:00 a.m. on 72nd Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. Produced in collaboration with JAPAN Fes, the Street Fair will feature hands-on cultural activities like calligraphy and origami, tourist info booths, giveaways, and nearly 20 food stalls offering authentic Japanese eats.

ABOUT JAPAN DAY

Organized by Japan Day Inc., the nonprofit behind Japan Day @ Central Park, the Japan Parade and Street Fair continue to grow as one of NYC’s most spirited celebrations of Japanese culture.

Don't miss this joyful fusion of tradition, community, and creativity—right in the heart of Manhattan.

Susan McCormac 3/26/25 Susan McCormac 3/26/25

Celebrate Japanese Culture at Columbia

Experience a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture with delicious food, captivating performances, and engaging activities. Since 2006, Matsuri has brought the Columbia community and New Yorkers together for an unforgettable day of cultural exchange.

Columbia Japanese Students Association Matsuri 2025

Friday, March 28 from 5:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.

Columbia University Low Plaza – W. 116th and Broadway

Admission: Free

The Japanese Students Association of Columbia University presents its Matsuri 2025 this Friday, March 28. JapanCulture-NYC is honored to be one of the sponsors Matsuri 2025 and to support the students of JSA who are bringing this dynamic cultural event to life!

Matsuri, the Japanese word for “festival,” embodies the spirit of community celebration through food, entertainment, and cultural exchange. Since 2006, JSA’s Matsuri has evolved into one of Columbia University’s most anticipated cultural events, transforming the heart of campus into a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture. Drawing nearly 1,000 attendees to the iconic Low Plaza each spring, Matsuri is more than just a festival; it’s a landmark event that brings together students, faculty, and New Yorkers.

Attendance is free, and guests can sign up through Columbia JSA’s Eventbrite link. However, due to current restrictions to access campus, people not affiliated with Columbia University and anyone without a valid Columbia University ID MUST fill out this form as well by today, Wednesday March 26. Columbia will send a QR code to your email. Please bring the QR code and a valid form of ID when you arrive, or you will not be able to enter campus.

What can you expect at this year’s Matsuri 2025?

Cultural Performances

Traditional taiko drumming echoing across campus
Martial arts demonstrations
Powerful Sōran Bushi (traditional Japanese song) performances

Culinary Journey

Authentic Japanese street food vendors
Traditional and modern festival treats
Interactive food demonstrations

Games and Activities

Photo booth with props
Traditional Japanese matsuri games
Japanese drinks and snack prizes

Food Vendors

Dokodemo
Inari Zushi
Karl’s Balls
Mr. K Katsu Sando
Mu Cha
Musubin
Rai Rai Ken
Sam’s Fried Ice Cream
Yakitori Tatsu

Cultural and Community Vendors

Golden Gate Global
Vision USA
Taro’s Origami Studio

Performance sCHEDULE

6:30 p.m. - 6:40 p.m. CU Goju Karate
6:40 p.m. - 6:50 p.m. CU Taiko
6:50 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. CU Naginata
7:00 p.m. - 7:10 p.m. Kendo
7:10 p.m. - 7:20 p.m. Columbia Pops
7:20 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Columbia Pops
7:30 p.m. - 7:40 p.m. Upper West Side Kenshikai Karate & BJJ
7:40 p.m. - 7:50 p.m. Kogyoku Yosakoi
7:50 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Kogyoku Yosakoi
8:00 p.m. - 8:10 p.m. CU Lion Dance
8:10 p.m. - 8:20 p.m. CU Lion Dance
8:20 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. CU Wushu
8:30 p.m. - 8:40 p.m. Columbia Taekwondo
8:40 p.m. - 8:50 p.m. Columbia Taekwondo
8:50 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. JSA 48

To learn more about Columbia University’s Japanese Students Association, please visit their website and follow them on Instagram.

Susan McCormac 3/21/25 Susan McCormac 3/21/25

Local Hero to Be Featured in NHK Documentary

Takeshi “Tak” Furumoto is the subject of the NHK documentary RAISED IN HIROSHIMA, FOUGHT IN VIETNAM

Takeshi “Tak” Furumoto is a Japanese American who was born in an incarceration camp, raised in Hiroshima, and fought in the Vietnam War. In the NHK documentary Raised in Hiroshima, Fought in Vietnam, Furumoto travels in search of closure to his complicated past.

About Tak Furumoto

Born in 1944 in Tule Lake War Relocation Center, one of the ten Japanese American incarceration camps established for the mass incarceration of more than 120,000 Japanese Americans and Japanese nationals living on the West Coast, during World War II, Tak Furumoto is the youngest of Sam Kiyoto and Yoshi Furumoto’s five children. Raised in his father’s war-torn hometown in Hiroshima after the atomic bombing, Furumoto’s family returned to the U.S. in 1956, settling in Los Angeles. After Furumoto graduated from UCLA in 1967, he volunteered to enter the Army. Despite the injustices his family endured in the U.S. during WWII, Furumoto valiantly served our country in the Vietnam War, earning a Bronze Star.

A New Jersey resident since 1971, Furumoto and his wife, Carolyn, have run Furumoto Realty in New Jersey, New York City, and Westchester for more than 50 years. They have dedicated their lives to the betterment of the Japanese American community in both New Jersey and New York. They were instrumental in New Jersey’s adoption of Fred T. Korematsu Day in 2023, relentlessly advocating for the state of New Jersey to recognize January 30 as the Fred T. Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution, a day that honors civil rights hero Fred Korematsu, a California native who refused to enter the incarceration camps in 1942.

To learn more about Furumoto and his contributions to our community, please read Karen Kawaguchi’s in-depth article in Discover Nikkei.

On-Air Schedule

NHK World will broadcast Raised in Hiroshima, Fought in Vietnam on the following days:
Friday, March 21 from 8:10 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, March 22 from 2:10 a.m. until 3:00 a.m. | 8:10 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. | 2:10 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.

NHK World is available in New York at these channels: Spectrum 1279, Optimum 142, FiOS 482, Xfinity 265 and 1157, and OTA channel 58.2 To find the full details of where you can watch the documentary in your area, please visit the NHK World Channel List on NHK’s website.

Susan McCormac 3/20/25 Susan McCormac 3/20/25

Live Martial Arts Demos at Japan Village

Experience the power, precision, and philosophy of Budo, the way of the warrior, through thrilling demonstrations of Aikido, Judo, Battodo, and Karate. Witness skilled martial artists from Kaizenkan Aikido Dojo, Japanese American Budokan, and Zentokan Dojo in action at Japan Village.

Martial Arts Day

Saturday, March 22 from Noon until 6:50 p.m. (First demo begins at 1:00 p.m.)

Japan Village - 934 3rd Avenue, Brooklyn (2nd Floor)

Admission: Free

Witness the strength, skill, and discipline behind martial arts movements as practitioners bring centuries-old traditions to life. Japan Village is hosting an action-packed, FREE showcase of Aikido, Judo, Battodo, and Karate, featuring live demonstrations from skilled martial artists representing Kaizenkan Aikido Dojo, Japanese American Budokan, and Zentokan Dojo. Each dojo will have information tables as well.

Experience the power, precision, and philosophy of Budo, the way of the warrior, at Japan Village!

Schedule of Demonstrations

1:00 p.m. – 1:25 p.m. – Aikido by Kaizenkan Aikido Dojo
1:30 p.m. – 1:55 p.m. – Judo by Japanese American Budokan
2:00 p.m. – 2:25 p.m. – Battodo by Zentokan Dojo
2:30 p.m. – 2:55 p.m. – Karate by Japanese American Budokan
3:25 p.m. – 3:50 p.m. – Aikido by Kaizenkan Aikido Dojo
3:55 p.m. – 4:20 p.m. – Judo by Japanese American Budokan
4:25 p.m. – 4:50 p.m. – Battodo by Zentokan Dojo
4:55 p.m. – 5:20 p.m. – Karate by Japanese American Budokan
5:25 p.m. – 5:50 p.m. – Aikido by Kaizenkan Aikido Dojo
5:55 p.m. – 6:20 p.m. – Judo by Japanese American Budokan
6:25 p.m. – 6:50 p.m. – Karate by Japanese American Budokan

Susan McCormac 3/17/25 Susan McCormac 3/17/25

A Panel on Women in STEM by JMSA & the Consulate

Join the Consulate General of Japan in New York and the Japanese Medical Society of America (JMSA) for a panel on women’s empowerment in STEM on March 25 at the Nippon Club. Featuring distinguished speakers from MIT and Eisai Co., Ltd., the discussion will explore challenges in Japan and the U.S., moderated by JMSA President Dr. Maki Kano-Lueckerath. A networking reception follows.

Empowering Women in STEM: U.S. and Japan Perspectives

Tuesday, March 25 from 6:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m.

Nippon Club – 145 W. 57th Street (between 6th and 7th Avenues), 2nd floor Rose Room

Admission: Free

In honor of International Women’s Month, please join the Consulate General of Japan in New York and the Japanese Medical Society of America (JMSA) for a panel discussion on women’s empowerment in STEM fields on March 25 at the Nippon Club. Prominent women in STEM-related professions will provide timely insight and guidance in navigating the challenges they have faced in Japan and the U.S. The distinguished panelists are Dr. Angeliki Diane Rigos of MIT and Dr. Saori Watanabe of Eisai Co., Ltd. JMSA President Dr. Maki Kano-Lueckerath will moderate. The emcee will be Haruka Kokaze, a workplace mental health research associate and lead Japan strategy analyst at Columbia University's Mental Health + Work Design Lab and One Mind, a heartfulness fellow at Stanford School of Medicine, a multidisciplinary addiction training scholar at NYU Langone Health, and a JAA Junior Board Member.

A networking reception will follow the discussion. Please register here: https://forms.gle/uqpogFV2kvS8zrFWA.

About the Speakers

Dr. Angeliki Diane Rigos
Dr. Rigos teaches leadership in the Physics Department at MIT and is the founder and president of Epistimi, a nonprofit organization that promotes the advancement and leadership of women in STEM fields. She conducted a workshop titled “U.S.-Japan Collaborative Leadership Program for Women in STEM” in Tokyo last summer.

Dr. Saori Watanabe
Born in Niigata City, Dr. Watanabe joined Eisai Co. D. (Medicine) after completing studies at the Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences at Tohoku University’s Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences. She oversees the creation of preclinical disease-related models in the company’s focus areas of neurology and oncology.

Dr. Maki Kano-Lueckerath
Dr. Kano-Lueckerath is an Associate Professor in General Internal Medicine at Mount Sinai and practices internal medicine and pediatrics. She is the President of the Japanese Medical Society of America (JMSA), an organization that provides mentors and scholarships for Japanese and Japanese American students in health-related professions. She is the founder of NY Sukusuku-kai, an NPO that strives to improve the health and welfare of the local Nikkei families and their children through outreach and education.

Susan McCormac 3/11/25 Susan McCormac 3/11/25

Unique Wellness Experience

Kokoro Gathering – Japanese Principles of Intentional Living

Saturday, March 15 from 1:00 p.m. until 4:30 p.m.

Japan Village – 934 3rd Ave, Brooklyn

Admission: $55

Join Peatix in celebrating International Women’s Day at a unique wellness experience at Kokoro Gathering, an afternoon dedicated to nurturing your mind, heart, and spirit.

Led by four renowned Japanese wellness practitioners, this thoughtfully designed event offers more than inspiration; it provides practical techniques that integrate seamlessly into your daily routine. Each workshop focuses on actionable strategies that create meaningful change in your life, work, and home environment. In addition to the workshops, there will be light refreshments, community connection opportunities, and access to post-event resources.

To purchase tickets, please visit Peatix’s website.

Four Transformative Workshops

ZEN PRACTICES FOR MODERN LIFE with Yoko Ohashi (Brooklyn Zen Center)
Learn practical meditation techniques and experience a guided practice designed to help you incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine with simple rituals that create calm during challenging situations.

THE ART OF MINDFUL SPACE ORGANIZATION with Junko Matsushita
Unlock new strategies to reduce stress, declutter your mind, and maximize your day with valuable tips for boosting your productivity and well-being through organized spaces.

HARMONIOUS SPACE DESIGN PRINCIPLES with Ai Matsui Johnson
Understand how Feng Shui can help create harmonious environments and pick up practical tips on arrangement and placement techniques to channel optimal energy flow in your living spaces.

JAPAN'S SECRET TO A HEALTHY LIFE with Dr. Michiko Yoshifuji
In this session, Dr. Yoshifuji will delve into traditional Japanese self-care rituals, unveiling time-honored practices designed to foster a deeper connection between your body and mind.

Meet the Experts

YOKO OHASHI
A dedicated meditation advocate from Osaka, Japan, Ohashi serves as a community leader at Brooklyn Zen Center. With her background in fine arts and current studies in divinity, she offers a unique perspective on integrating mindfulness into modern life.

JUNKO MATSUSHITA
Based in New York since 2010, Matsushita specializes in organization coaching for career-driven women. Her approach blends life coaching principles with customized strategies that create harmony, efficiency, and balance by integrating Japanese mindfulness practices.

AI MATSUI JOHNSON
Founder of Ai Feng Shui Interior Consulting and author of A Little Bit of Feng Shui, Matsui Johnson combines her expertise in Feng Shui, interior design, and decluttering to create personalized, harmonious spaces that reflect and empower her clients' lives.

DR. MICHIKO YOSHIFUJI
As a Doctor of Acupuncture and owner of ROOTS Mindful Acupuncture in Midtown NYC, Dr. Yoshifuji is dedicated to providing holistic, patient-centered care that improves overall health and quality of life through traditional Japanese wellness practices.

About the Organizer

Kokoro Gathering is an exclusive event series organized by Peatix. Since 2011, Peatix has effectively connected more than 130,000 organizers worldwide through shared experiences via its user-friendly event platform. Learn more about their global community of event creators at https://peatix.com/us/about-us

Susan McCormac 2/17/25 Susan McCormac 2/17/25

“Biri Gal” at Japan Society

Sayaka Kobayashi, the inspiration behind the Japanese film Flying Colors (Biri Gal / ビリギャル), will give an author talk and book signing at Japan Society on Thursday, February 27 at 7:00 p.m.

Author Talk & Signing: Meet Real-Life Biri Gal Sayaka Kobayashi

Thursday, February 27 at 7:00 p.m.

Japan Society – 333 E. 47th Street (between 1st and 2nd Avenues)

Admission: $25 | $23 Seniors, Students, and Persons with Disabilities | $20 Japan Society Members

Sayaka Kobayashi is the real-life inspiration behind the 2015 Japanese movie Flying Colors (Biri Gal / ビリギャル), which is based on her journey from a troubled middle school student on the verge of expulsion to passing one of Japan’s most difficult university entrance exams. Now, on the 10th anniversary of this beloved film, Japan Society presents Kobayashi for a talk about her life, career, writing and motivation.

About Sayaka Kobayashi

Struggling with poor academic performance throughout high school, Kobayashi dedicated herself to an intense study regimen for a year and a half, and after tremendous effort, she succeeded in securing admission to the prestigious Keio University. Her story became the best-selling book The Story of a Gal at the Bottom of her School Year who Raised her Standard Score by 40 Points in One Year and Got Accepted into Keio University, written by her dedicated tutor, Nobutaka Tsubota. This book, which has sold more than one million copies, led to Flying Colors (Biri Gal / ビリギャル).

Since her Keio success, Kobayashi earned a master’s degree in cognitive science from Columbia University in 2024, and she has recently written the book How I Fell in Love with Learning, a guide that explores the essential elements for effective learning.

To purchase tickets to this event, please visit Japan Society’s website. Our friends at Japan Society are offering JapanCultureNYC members a discount to this event! Members will receive a separate email with the code for $10 tickets. Not member of JapanCultureNYC? Join now by going to https://www.japanculture-nyc.com/membership.

*How I Fell in Love with Learning* by Sayaka Kobayashi

About the Book

How I Fell in Love with Learning (私はこうして勉強にハマった) was published by Sanctuary Publishing in Japan in July 2024. Sayaka Kobayashi unpacks her success story through the lens of cognitive science, drawing on insights gained at Columbia University. The book explores three essential elements for effective learning: strong motivation, the right strategies and study methods and a supportive environment that sustains the learner’s enthusiasm. By focusing on these key factors, How I Fell in Love with Learning offers a practical guide to study techniques for anyone. The book is accessible to everyone from middle school students to parents and educators, providing tools to improve academic performance alongside guidance on fostering a love of learning and confidence-building.

Autographs and Book Sales

Attendees of Japan Society’s Sayaka Kobayashi talk and signing will be able to purchase copies of How I Fell in Love with Learning at the event or bring books from home for a signing session following the author’s talk. Please note How I Fell in Love with Learning is available only in Japanese.

Susan McCormac 1/29/25 Susan McCormac 1/29/25

Webinar to Explore the founding of I-House

The founding of the International House of Japan

Reflections on the Founding of the International House of Japan: Insights from Rockefeller & Matsumoto for the Future

Thursday, February 6 at 7:00 p.m.

Live Webinar

Admission: Free

As the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII approaches, the International House of Japan and American Friends of the International House of Japan present a live virtual discussion focused on the documentary film John and Shige: The Quiet Builders about the founding of the International House of Japan in the aftermath of such devastating global conflict. The event explores the friendship between John D. Rockefeller III and Shigeharu Matsumoto and the context of the time in which they built the International House of Japan. Panelists will consider how such an institution was developed and the ways in which it helped rebuild positive relations between the U.S. and Japan and its aim to prevent future conflict.

The panel intends to examine how the International House of Japan collaborated with U.S. institutions such as Japan Society. Through a close reflection on the origins of the I-House, AFIHJ hopes to generate a discussion about lessons for the future as the International House of Japan continues to work with partners to prevent future conflicts and enhance cross-cultural understanding.

To register, please visit afijh.org. Registrants will receive a link to watch the film John and Shige: The Quiet Builders.

Speakers

Victoria Bestor
Victoria Lyon Bestor has been fascinated by Japan since growing up in Seattle, Kobe’s sister city; her interest in the Rockefeller Family began when she was a program officer at Japan Society of New York in the early 1980s. As a Fulbright scholar she combined those interests to study the role of Rockefeller Philanthropy in Japan, making use of archives internationally including the Rockefeller Archive Center and International House of Japan. She has published several articles and chapters related to that research.

From 1999 to 2017 she was the executive director of the NCC (North American Coordinating Council on Japanese Library Resources), an international nonprofit, and has served on the board of the American Friends of International House of Japan.

Dr. Kent Calder
The Chair of AFIHJ, Dr. Kent E. Calder is an Edwin O. Reischauer Professor and Director of the Edwin O. Reischauer Center for East Asian Studies at the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS). A specialist in East Asian political economy, Calder lived and researched in Japan for eleven years and across East Asia for four years. His recent publications include Global Political Cities: Actors and Arenas of Influence in International Affairs (2021), Super Continent: The Logic of Eurasian Integration (2019), and Circles of Compensation: Economic Growth and the Globalization of Japan (2018), among others.

In 2014, he was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon.

Dr. Carol Gluck
The George Sansom Professor of History Emerita at Columbia University, Dr. Carol Gluck is a historian of modern Japan specializing in international relations, World War II, and history-writing and public memory in Asia and the West. Publications include Japan’s Modern Myths, Showa: The Japan of Hirohito, Asia in Western and World History, Words in Motion, Thinking with the Past: Japan and Modern History, and Past Obsessions: World War Two in History and Memory.

A past President of the Association for Asian Studies, Gluck is the founding member and chair of Columbia's Committee on Global Thought, a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and a member of the American Philosophical Society. She is a recipient of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon from the government of Japan and an awardee of the International Japanese Studies Prize from the National Institute of the Humanities.

Yamazaki Home Open-Box Sale

About Yamazaki Home

AkumuFest: An Interactive Japanese Horror Experience

Event Details

Presented By

Main Highlights

After Dark

Register

Expo 2025 Talk #5: A Conversation with Cross-Cultural Consultant Yvonne Burton

At the Heart of Expo: Countries and Connections

🎥 Missed our earlier talks? Catch up here

A Conversation with Tak Furumoto and NHK World Japan’s Mayu Nakamura

Expo 2025 Talk #4: A Conversation with Cross-Cultural Consultant Yvonne Burton

What Expo Means for Osaka’s Global Business Future

Culmination Performance of Dance and Poetry of Japan Workshop

About the Dance and Poetry Workshop

Sachiyo Ito’s Memoir on JapanCulture-NYC.com

Expo 2025 Talk #3: A Conversation with Cross-Cultural Consultant Yvonne Burton

Previous Sessions

Prepare and Register

JCCI & JAA Young Professionals Networking and Baseball Watch Party

About the Event

Admission

Expo 2025 Talk: A Conversation with Cross-Cultural Consultant Yvonne Burton – Part 2

What to See

Register in advance

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Community

Japanese and Japanese American Community Night

Pregame Activities

Live from Osaka: A Conversation with Cross-Cultural Consultant Yvonne Burton on Expo 2025

Japan Parade

Highlights

STREET FAIR

ABOUT JAPAN DAY

Columbia Japanese Students Association Matsuri 2025

Cultural Performances

Culinary Journey

Games and Activities

Food Vendors

Cultural and Community Vendors

Performance sCHEDULE

About Tak Furumoto

On-Air Schedule

Martial Arts Day

Schedule of Demonstrations

Empowering Women in STEM: U.S. and Japan Perspectives

About the Speakers

Kokoro Gathering – Japanese Principles of Intentional Living

Four Transformative Workshops

Meet the Experts

About the Organizer

Author Talk & Signing: Meet Real-Life Biri Gal Sayaka Kobayashi

About Sayaka Kobayashi

About the Book

Autographs and Book Sales

Reflections on the Founding of the International House of Japan: Insights from Rockefeller & Matsumoto for the Future

Speakers

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