2024 Oshogatsu Japanese New Year Celebration

On Saturday, January 6, JASH together with Levy Park hosted the second annual JAPAN JUNCTION Oshogatsu New Year Celebration.

During the event, hundreds of park visitors enjoyed a variety of traditional Japanese activities to mark the start of the YEAR OF THE DRAGON.

Starting and concluding the festivities from the stage was the energetic Kaminari Taiko performing group. Visitors were also treated to a kamishibai telling of “How the Years were Named” in the Japanese tradition and an interactive sumo demonstration by Shōgeki Sumo.

Throughout the event, JASH volunteers engaged visitors in the traditional games of fukuwarai, daruma otoshi, hagoita, and ton ton sumo. Other booths allowed visitors to claim an omikuji fortune, pound mochi, decorate paper hagoita, create special woodblock prints, fold origami dragons and practice shodo calligraphy. Booths featuring Japanese sweets and works of shodo artworks were also available for the attendees to shop.

Click on the link below to watch KPRC’s Houston Life interview regarding the event.

Through the 3-hour event, JASH together with Zen Calligraphy raised nearly $700.00 in support of relief efforts for those in Japan affected by the devastating New Year earthquake which struck the Noto Peninsula.

Click the button below to learn more about JASH’s pledge to prove that HOUSTON STANDS WITH JAPAN:

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Images provided courtesy of Levy Park and night.sky.creative

Happy New Year 2024

[日本語版は下にあります]

Happy New Year to you!

The arrival of the dragon year signifies not just the passage of time but also a chance to embrace the strong, auspicious energy that the dragon embodies.

As we step into this powerful new year, we welcome the hope and promise that it brings.

2024 not only marks the 56th anniversary of Japan-America Society of Houston, 2024 will see the U.S. and Japan commemorate the 170th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.  Moreover, 2024 has been officially designated by the U.S. and Japanese governments as the “U.S.-Japan Tourism Year.”

In support of the strengthening of tourism and business exchanges between the U.S. and Japan, 2024 is shaping up to be the “YEAR OF JAPAN” in Houston!  Japan will be celebrated across the city and throughout the year.

2024 will open with an OSHOGATSU celebration hosted by JASH at Levy Park on January 6.  From January 26 to February 11, Houston Grand Opera will present Puccini’s Madame Butterfly.  On February 3, kabuki returns to Houston for the first time in over 20 years through a Japan Society+Japan-America Society of Houston collaboration at the Hobby Center for Performing Arts.  The work of Ruth Asawa will be on display at the Menil Drawing Institute from March 22 through July 21.  The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston will present a fresh look at the art of Japan’s Meiji era (1686-1912) in the landmark exhibition Meiji Modern: Fifty Years of New Japan from July 30 to September 15.  And Japan’s National Bunraku Theater is set to introduce the traditional artform to Houston on October 12.

All this in addition to JASH’s annual signature programs, including the Japan Currents Houston Conference, the Houston Regional Japanese Language Speech Contest, the Texas State Japanese Language Speech Contest, the Houston-Chiba Sister City Youth Ambassador Program, the Japan-Texas Educator Professional Development Program, JASH BASH and Japan Festival Houston.

We recognize there is enormous opportunity and responsibility before us. 

As we continue to focus on the quality of our diverse programs in the areas of arts and culture, business and policy, and education, we do not take for granted that our work in service of the U.S.-Japan relations is made possible with the support of you, our community. 

The dragon is a harbinger of blessings and harmonious relationships, and we dedicate 2024 to providing you with inspiring encounters with Japan that serve to strengthen the kizuna or bond between America and Japan.   

Here’s to a year filled with prosperity, growth and vibrant celebrations.

新年あけましておめでとうございます！

本年が皆様にとりまして良い年となりますようお祈り申し上げます。

辰年の到来は、時間の経過だけでなく、龍が体現する強力で縁起の良いエネルギーを受け入れるチャンスでもあります。

この力強い新年を迎えるにあたって、私たちはそれがもたらす希望と約束を受け入れます。

2024年はヒューストン日米協会の創立56周年を記念するだけでなく、日米外交関係樹立170周年を記念する年となります。さらに、2024年は日米両政府により「日米観光交流年」と正式に定められました。

日米間の観光とビジネス交流の強化を支援するため、ヒューストンでは2024年が「YEAR OF JAPAN」となりつつあります。そして、日本は一年を通して街中で祝福されるでしょう。

2024年は、1月6日にLevy Parkで開催するヒューストン日米協会主催のイベント「お正月-New Year Celebration」で幕開けします。続いて日本協会NYとの共催で2月3日にNihon Buyo in the 21st Century: From Kabuki Dance to BoléroをThe Hobby Center for the Performing Artsで開催します。さらに1月26日から2月11日まで、Houston Grand Operaではプッチーニの「蝶々夫人」が上演されます。ルース・浅輪の作品は、3月22日から7月21日までメニルー・ドローイング・インスティテュートで展示されます。そしてヒューストン美術館は、7月30日から9月15日まで画期的な展覧会「明治モダン：新日本の50年」を開催し、日本の明治時代（1868年～1912年）の芸術を新たな視点で紹介します。さらに、日本の国立文楽劇場は、10月12日にヒューストンに伝統芸術形式を紹介する予定です。

これらはすべて、Japan Currents Houston Conference、ヒューストン地区日本語スピーチコンテスト、テキサス州日本語スピーチコンテスト、ヒューストン市・千葉市姉妹都市青少年親善大使プログラム、日本・テキサス教員研修コース、JASH BASH、JAPAN FESTIVAL HOUSTONなどのヒューストン日米協会が毎年実施する主要プログラムに加えて行われます。

このように、私たちの前には非常に大きなチャンスと同時に責任があると認識しています。

芸術や文化、ビジネスや政策、そして教育といった分野で実施する多様なプログラムの質に私達はこだわり続けていますが、これら日米関係に貢献するための取り組みは、私たちのコミュニティである皆様のご支援によって成り立っていることをとても強く意識しております。皆様の時間や才能、財政面での多大なるご支援に心より感謝申し上げます。

龍は祝福と調和の前触れであると言われており、2024年を、アメリカ人と日本人の絆をより強いものにする、日本との感動的な出会いを皆様にお届けする一年にできるよう、私たちはさらに活動に専念してまいります。本年も引き続き皆様のご支援とご協力、そしてご参加を賜りますよう、何卒よろしくお願い申し上げます。

Houston Chronicle Highlights Local Wagashi Business Oyatsu Aoi

On Wednesday, December 20, the Houston Chronicle highlighted local Houston wagashi maker, Oyatsu Aoi. Born, raised, and trained in Kyoto, Japan, owner Aoi Tsuchida has been sharing her love for these Japanese treats with the Houston community since 2022.

Wagashi refers to traditional Japanese sweets made with rice powder, red bean paste and seasonal fruits. They are oil and milk-free, so can also be vegan-friendly.

Tsuchida, 36, started making her own wagashi in the 2010s while working at a Japanese sweet shop, and then started her own business in 2019, called Oyatsu Aoi. Oyatsu means "snacks" or "casual sweets," Tsuchida said, and Aoi is after her own name.

“I believe that wagashi has the possibility to be loved by people in the world.”

-Aoi Tsuchida

Tsuchida came to Houston in 2022 with her husband, and here she began to sell her wagashi through online orders and pop-ups. She continues to hold pop-ups in the Houston area, and information about them and how to order can be found on her Instagram feed. Tsuchida loves doing pop-ups because people's positive feedback and sharing her wagashi with them gives her energy and a "happy feeling." She also appreciates the diversity in Houston and finds it to be a comfortable city with friendly people.

Click the buttons below to read the full article written by Fatima Farha and Yi-Chin Lee, and to view the story on the Houston Chronicle’s YouTube channel:

Friends of Asian Art and JASH Host Hokusai Discussion at MFAH

On Friday, December 8, 2023, Japan-America Society of Houston collaborated with The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) on a program featuring Canon’s Tsuzuri Inheritance Project.

“Curators’ Perspectives: Preserving the Heritage of Hokusai from Meiji and Beyond” — made possible by the National Association of Japan-America Societies with funding from the United States-Japan Foundation — introduced the technology and traditional craftsmanship used to recreate cultural assets that are now preserved in overseas collections.

Dr. Sarah Thompson, curator of Japanese art at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), gave a presentation focused on the Tsuzuri Project’s reproduction of Hokusai Katsuhika’s “Country Scenes and Mount Fuji” painted screens.

Through an introduction of Hokusai and the only pair of six-fold screens produced by Hokusai’s own hand, Dr. Thompson made a case for applying facsimile technology to Japanese cultural assets that are now preserved in overseas collections. The discussion of “Country Scenes and Mount Fuji” also brought to light how the foresight and enterprise of pioneering connoisseurs of Japanese art in the 1880s and 1890s — such as Ernest Fenellosa and Charles Lang Freer — led to the U.S. becoming home to the largest collection of Japanese art outside of Japan as well as home to the world’s largest single collection of paintings by Hokusai.

Following the presentation, Dr. Thompson was joined by Dr. Bradley Bailey, the MFAH’s Ting Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Curator of Asian Art, in a discussion about Hokusai’s influence on what constituted “Japanese art” in the Meiji period and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Photos courtesy of night.sky.creative

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Made Possible By:

2023 Fall Japanese Garden Cleanup

Image by Patsy Brown

On Saturday, December 2, JASH hosted the Annual Fall Japanese Garden Cleanup in Hermann Park.

Under the guidance of the Hermann Park Conservancy (HPC), a post-pandemic record 79 volunteers pulled weeds, lay rock in the karesansui, raked leaves, and tidied the tea house.

お疲れ様 (Otsukaresama) to everyone who gave of their time and effort to ensure the Japanese Garden is looking its best in preparation for the holidays and the coming New Year!

Photos courtesy of night.sky.creative

NHK WORLD-JAPAN Partnering with Houston Public Media & Xfinity to Bring Live Programing to Houston

HOUSTON (Dec. 1, 2023) --- NHK WORLD-JAPAN, the English-language international service of Japan’s sole public broadcaster, NHK, is partnering with Houston Public Media and Xfinity to bring its live news and Japanese lifestyle programming to Greater Houston.

Area viewers can tune in to broadcast channel 8.4 or Xfinity channels 304 and 1152 to catch the latest international and Asian news and enjoy cultural programs devoted to everything from homestyle Japanese cooking to anime to bicycling the countryside.

NHK WORLD-JAPAN delivers a unique and diverse blend of English-language programming featuring hourly live international news from Tokyo and 30 news bureaus around the globe, including New York City, along with programs covering Japanese society, politics, scientific advancement, culture, history, food and lifestyle.

“We are delighted to bring the news and unique cultural perspective of NHK WORLD-JAPAN to audiences across Greater Houston,” said Mr. Jun Takao, President and CEO of Japan International Broadcasting, Inc. “The Houston community is one of the most diverse in the United States and its people thrive on international culture, so it is a pleasure to bring this content to its English-speaking Asian population and the broader audience that wishes to know more about Japanese news, current events, and culture.“

With the addition of Houston, NHK WORLD-JAPAN is now broadcast in 14 metro markets in the U.S. and available to stream online.  

“The programming provided by NHK WORLD-JAPAN is consistent with our mission to inform, educate and inspire the people of Houston with intelligent, enriching and culturally significant programming,” said Lisa Trapani Shumate, associate vice president and general manager, Houston Public Media. “It’s a pleasure to partner with NHK WORLD-JAPAN to bring this high-quality content to Greater Houston viewers.”  

 For more information, contact Cherri Carbonara of Carbonara Group at cherri@carbonaragroup.com.

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About NHK WORLD-JAPAN

NHK WORLD-JAPAN is the international service of Japan’s sole public media organization NHK.  NHK WORLD-JAPAN television reaches over 420 million households in 160 countries and regions via local satellite, cable TV providers and OTT. NHK WORLD-JAPAN is broadcast 24/7 through our affiliates in major U.S. market areas: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, Atlanta, Seattle, Denver, Orlando, Charlotte, Baltimore, and Salt Lake City.   Online live streaming and VOD (video-on-demand) services through the free mobile app and the website, give viewers access to NHK WORLD-JAPAN anywhere and anytime. You can also connect through Roku, Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV. Presenting an extensive range of Asia-centered programming, NHK WORLD-JAPAN is your window to Japan, Asia, and the rest of the world. For more details, visit nhk.jp/world.

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About Japan International Broadcasting

Japan International Broadcasting is responsible for the worldwide distribution of the HD English language news/lifestyle channel “NHK WORLD-JAPAN,” as well as the HD Japanese language channel “NHK WORLD PREMIUM.” Currently, the two channels are broadcast around the world on three international satellites and reach households, hotels, and others via DTH, cable, IPTV, and terrestrial broadcast.

Mansfield Next Generation of U.S.-Japan Nuclear Policy Experts Program Accepting Applications

Image courtesy of The Maureen and Mike Mansfield Foundation

Applications for the second cohort of the “Mansfield Next Generation of U.S.-Japan Nuclear Policy Experts” program are now open!

This training program aims to nurture a new generation of Japanese and American nuclear experts who will contribute to the strengthening of U.S.-Japan security relations and grow into leaders and policymakers with a comprehensive understanding of regional nuclear security dynamics.

The program, held entirely in English, includes a series of interactive webinars culminating in an in-person, immersion training in Washington, D.C. and the opportunity to publish a short policy-relevant article. The participants will receive round-trip airfare to Washington, accommodations, and meals.

The application deadline is January 28, 2024 at 10:59PM CST / 11:59 PM EST. Click the button below to learn more about the program and to apply.

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PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY:

• Japanese students enrolled in an MA or PhD program in international relations, security studies, political science, or related fields at a university in Japan; OR

• Students (including non-U.S. citizens) enrolled in an MA or PhD program in international relations, security studies, political science, East Asian studies, or related fields at a university in the United States.

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PROGRAM TIMELINE:

• January 28, 2024 | Deadline to apply

• Early February 2024 | Short virtual interviews with candidates and selection of the Japanese and U.S. program participants

• Late February / Early March 2024 | Virtual meet-and-greet among participants and Mansfield staff

• March-July 2024 | Three virtual interactive webinars (90 minutes each), featuring a speaker discussing global nuclear politics and history; nuclear security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific; and arms control and the future of nuclear agreements. Additional optional webinars may be scheduled.

• September 2024 | Participants travel to Washington, DC for a 7-day in-person training program. Facilitated by the Foundation, the students will meet with key nuclear experts from academia and think tanks as well as practitioners from the U.S. government.

• November 2024 | Participants will work in groups and submit a short policy-relevant piece for online publication with the Mansfield Foundation.

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HOW TO APPLY:

Please submit the following to applications@mansfieldfdn.org:

• A resume or CV (no more than 2 pages);

• A 1-page motivation letter detailing your interest in nuclear policy and the Indo-Pacific, and your career plans in the security/international relations/nuclear field;

• A letter of recommendation from a professor or a supervisor who knows you personally and is familiar with your work. The recommender can send the letter directly to applications@mansfieldfdn.org.

If you have any questions about the program, please email pgoodman@mansfieldfdn.org.

Daikin Hosts Neighbor's Household Hazardous Waste Recycling Event

Free up space at your home and bring your acceptable household hazardous waste to Daikin Texas Technology Park on November 15 from 7:30 AM - 2:30 PM, where CleanEarth will be waiting to collect and dispose of it in a responsible manner, free of charge.  

This event is for residential neighbors and Daikin employees in Harris and Waller counties. There is no cost to you, but registration is required.  A list of waste items is also required for drop-off.  Please list the items you will bring, and quantity, when you sign up.  Please refer to the lists of acceptable and unacceptable items below:

• Household amounts of paint related products (excluding lead-based paint products),

• household cleaners,

• aerosols,

• yard products (such as fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides),

• automotive products (such as oil, filters, gasoline, and diesel),

• household batteries,

• products containing mercury (thermometers, thermostats, bulbs),

• pool chemicals,

• small size propane cylinders, and

• other hazardous materials from households.

  • Hazardous shipping categories may be flammable gases (small propanes and aerosols), flammable liquids and solids, poison liquids and solids, oxidizers and organic peroxides, corrosives, and other environmentally hazardous materials. Tires and electronics will be accepted.

Unacceptable waste materials are:

• lead based paint,

• asbestos, 

• radioactive,

• explosives (including firecrackers and ammunition),

• medical waste,

• pharmaceutical/biological waste (sharps),

• propane containers larger than camp stove size,

• commercial/business waste,

• dioxins,

• containers larger than 5 gallons,

• materials containing asbestos,

• lead-based paints, and

• municipal trash.

CleanEarth limits spray paint cans to 12 cans and gallon paint cans to 5 gallons.

DAIKIN AND CLEANEARTH RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REFUSE ITEMS.

I.D. will be required for confirmation at drop off.  

Daikin loves supporting their neighbors and working with community partners like the City of Waller and our friends at CleanEarth to promote a healthier environment, which includes diverting recyclable waste from landfills—one of Daikin’s Net Zero goals. Let’s do it together on America Recycles Day!

JASH BASH 2023

JASH BASH 2023 was held on October 24, 2023 at Bayou Music Center in downtown Houston.

In addition to marking JASH’s 55th anniversary, the event highlighted the gastronomic traditions from Japan and Mexico that have shaped Houston’s living culture, and celebrated the strengthening of U.S.-Japan business ties in our region as well as 135 years of special ties shared between Japan and Mexico.

Guests were greeted by Mariachi Reyes as well as treated to a special performance from Japan Festival favorite Kaminari Taiko.

Mr. Bob Harvey, President and CEO of Greater Houston Partnership, was presented with the 2023 Houston-Japan Friendship Award which honors local individuals and organizations for contributions to the fostering of Japan-America friendship and understanding in Houston. JASH presented this award in recognition of Mr. Harvey’s commitment to promoting the continued collaboration and goodwill exchanges that foster economic development between Houston and Japan.

JASH also presented Ms. Candice Kumai, Wellness Writer and Chef, with the J. Thomas Schieffer Leadership Award in recognition of her role as a global leader in cultural diplomacy through advancing understanding of Japanese culture through food and lifestyle.

The main feature of the evening was undoubtedly the collaborative dinner featuring the culinary excellence of local chefs Hugo Ortega (executive chef/co-owner of five of Houston’s top restaurants – Backstreet Cafe, Hugo’s, Caracol, Xochi and URBE, and winner of Best Chef: Southwest at the prestigious 2017 James Beard Foundation Awards) and Manabu Horiuchi (four-time James Beard Award nominee and Executive Chef at award-winning Kata Robata and soon-to-open Katami).

JASH is grateful to all those who made JASH BASH possible, providing funding to further the society’s mission of strengthening the bond of friendship between the U.S. and Japan through educational, business, and cultural initiatives.

View more photographs in the JASH BASH 2023 Gallery [HERE].

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JASH gratefully acknowledges the support of:

SUSTAINER SPONSORS

• The Friedkin Group / Gulf States Toyota

PARTNER SPONSORS

• Kathy and Glen Gondo

ADVOCATE SPONSORS

• JERA Americas

• Mitsubishi Corporation (Americas)

• Mitsui & Co. (U.S.A.), Inc.

• Sumitomo Corporation of Americas

• Debra Tsuchiyama Baker and Peter Rockrise

• Miwa Sakashita and John Stroehlein, M.D.

• Westlake Corporation

ALLY SPONSORS

• Daikin Comfort Technologies North America Inc.

• Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc.

• MUFG Bank, Ltd.

• SHINTECH Inc.

FRIEND SPONSORS

• All Nippon Airways

• BakerHostetler

• Locke Lord, LLP

• Midori and Jay Mochizuki

• Nippon Steel

• Nanako and Dale Tingleaf

HOST COMMITTEE

• Donna Fujimoto Cole | Cole Chemical & Distributing, Inc.

• Fresi Travels | Tami Hiraoka & Lou Borrego

• Dr. Risako Komaki-Cox

• Prof. Hiroko Sato and Mr. Randy Singh

• Dr. Jun and Mrs. Naoko Teruya

DONORS

• Shirley Bloom

• Carla K. Deluca

• Aimee Dodson in honor of Miwa Sakashita

• Shara Fryer

• Dr. Hiroyuki Katayama

• Killer Noodle

• Gwendolyn Gantt Mullins

• Nippon Shokubai America Industries, Inc.

• Osaka Gas USA Corporation

• Daniel Parker

• Cheryl Renee Rhode

JASH ANNUAL MEMBER MEETING at HOUSTON CENTER

On September 26, Japan-America Society of Houston members returned to the HOUSTON CENTER for the 2022-2023 JASH Annual Meeting.

The meeting opened with a warm welcome from Nobukazu Shimada, Regional Strategy Department Manager of Mitsubishi Corporation (Americas).

Following the opening remarks, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America President Takajiro (Tak) Ishikawa was voted in as JASH Vice President, and Sadami Sugimoto of All Nippon Airways (ANA) was named to the JASH Board of Directors.

JASH President Laird Doran provided an update on the state of JASH through the JASH 2022-23 Annual Report.

JASH also recognized the first 2023 Houston-Chiba Sister Cities Youth Ambassador Exchange Program since 2019. Student Ambassadors Evan Gildea, James Gillett, and Campbell Pacey recounted their experiences along with Chaperone Janet Atkins.

At the conclusion of the meeting, members were treated to nigiri sushi by Mitsubishi Corporation (Americas) corporate chef Takao Saito, sushi rolls by Sushic, and sweet cream puffs by Beard Papa Katy.

Special thanks go to JASH Corporate Sponsor Mitsubishi Corporation (Americas) for making the 2023 ANNUAL MEMBER MEETING possible.

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JASH 2022-23 ANNUAL REPORT

Click here to view the JASH FY2022-2023 Annual Report.

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Images courtesy of night.sky.creative

Japan ICU Foundation - Full Tuition Scholarship Opportunity for US Students

The JAPAN ICU FOUNDATION will once again be offering the merit-based Nelson Ranch Scholarship for U.S. citizens to attend the INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY (ICU) in Mitaka, Tokyo.

The scholarship will cover the entire cost of tuition for four (4) years of undergraduate study at ICU. 

Eligible applicants must :

• be a United States citizen (Applicants with Japanese dual citizenship are not eligible.);

• be committed to Christianity;

• demonstrate significant financial need.

Applications are being accepted through November 1, 2023.  Learn more about the scholarship and apply online by clicking the button below:

2023 JLPT Dates Announced

The American Association of Teachers of Japanese (AATJ) has announced that the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) will be held on December 3, 2023.

The testing site for Texas is Rice University in Houston, TX. 223 seats are available.

Registration is opening by level:

• Registration for LEVEL N1 will open on Monday, August 7, at 11:00 AM CDT.

• Registration for LEVEL N2 will open on Thursday, August 10, at 11:00 AM CDT.

• Registration for LEVEL N3 will open on Thursday, August 17, at 11:00 AM CDT.

• Registration for LEVEL N4 will open on Saturday, August 19, at 11:00 AM CDT.

• Registration for LEVEL N5 will open on Monday, August 21, at 11:00 AM CDT.

Registration for ALL LEVELS will close on Tuesday, September 19, at 7:00 PM CDT, or when all seats at all test sites are filled, whichever is sooner.

Some JLPT registration procedures have changed. Registration fees remain $100 per test. Download the JLPT Test Guide below for the most up to date information about the exam.

**NOTE: Even if you have registered in previous years, you will need to create a new user account in the system.**

2023 Japanese Language Scholarship from JLSF

Japanese Language Scholarship Foundation (JLSF) is now accepting applications for the 2023 Japanese Language Scholarship. Up to two (2) awardees will receive a $5,000 to carry out a project of their choosing in Japan.

Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that they would like to implement but have been kept from pursuing due to lack of funding. Projects must be shown to enhance the awardee's educational goals.

Following the conclusion of the project, scholarship awardees will be required to submit reports to the JLSF about their experiences in Japan.

Open to U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries teaching Japanese in the United States.

Learn more by clicking the buttons below.

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QUALIFICATIONS:

• Applicants must fulfill ONE of the following three requirements:

  • Be an in-service Japanese language teacher in any school level in the US;

  • Be a graduate student studying Japanese language education who is committed to working in Japanese language and/or Japanese language/culture-related studies in the US; or

  • Be a pre-service Japanese language teacher currently studying to obtain a teaching credential for teaching Japanese in the US.

• Applicants must also:

  • Be available for an oral interview in person or by phone;

  • Write and submit a report on the project accomplished in Japan; and

  • Be able to attend the award ceremony to be held in Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, January 20, 2024.

    • (Limited travel expenses and accommodations for this ceremony may be covered by JLSF as needed)

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REQUIRED APPLICATION DOCUMENTS:

• Completed application form;

• Current resume/biography;

• Photograph of applicant (optional); and

• A letter, typed, double-spaced and no longer than three (3) pages that describes the potential scholarship recipient and proposed project.

The letter should include the applicant's background, goals, current activities, commitment to Japanese language education and Japan studies related to language, a detailed description of their proposed activity in Japan, and a proposed budget (including airfare between the U.S. and Japan).

Applicants should be able to justify their field in Japan Studies related to language. For instance, applicants can be students in Japanese literature focusing on language studies, sociology studying language education, or history studying Japanese for their research.

Entries, including photographs, will not be critiqued or returned. From the time of submission, all entries become properties of the JLSF.

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DEADLINE AND SUBMISSION:

• All applications must be e-mailed on or before Friday, September 15, 2023.

• Send all required materials as attachments to scholarship@jlsf-aurora.org

• Subject line: JLSF Scholarship Application Submission

  • PDF, JPG, DOC files preferred.

Up to two (2) winners will be selected, depending on application volume and quality.

Selection will be announced by Sunday, October 15, 2023.

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JLSF was established in 1998 (and its guidelines revised in 2013) to encourage teachers of the Japanese language and students in Japanese language studies in their educational and/or professional development as well as to promote cultural exchanges.

七夕 Tanabata - Star Festival at Children's Museum Houston

On Friday, July 7, twenty-one JASH volunteers joined the Consulate-General of Japan in Houston at Children's Museum Houston to celebrate Tanabata (七夕/ star festival).

Steeped in legend, Tanabata honors the tale of Orihime and Hikoboshi.  According to folklore, the Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunisolar calendar. With the stars aligning for this reunion, wishes are destined to come true.  So on this day, Japanese write their own wishes on colorful paper (tanzaku) and hang them from bamboo branches.

JASH volunteers helped visitors to the Museum experienceTanabata traditions by folding origami magpies, crafting Tanabata decorations, creating tanzaku wishes, and mastering a few kendama skills.

Many thanks to all who came out to enjoy Tanabata with us. We hope all your wishes will come true!

2023 Houston+Chiba Sister City Youth Ambassadors in Chiba, Japan

For the first time since 2018, students from Houston have traveled to Japan to participate in the Houston-Chiba Sister City Youth Ambassador Program.

Four (4) students and two (2) teacher chaperones from River Oaks Baptist School will be representing Houston in Japan from June 4-15.

Follow the adventures of the Youth Ambassadors through the new Youth Ambassador Program Blog.

NEW Japan Festival Houston 2023 Blog

Relive Japan Festival Houston 2023 through the new Japan Festival Houston 2023 Blog!

Each article focuses on a specific aspect of the Festival. Enjoy!

JASH Celebrates AAPI Month

May was a busy month as JASH joined Houston in celebrating AAPI Heritage.

In addition to hosting Japan Festival Houston and carrying out regular JASH programs including Japanese language classes, ikebana workshops and Japan Junction in Levy Park, JASH was engaged in a number of outreach activities.

Thank you Houston Astros, Houston Dynamo, BakerRipley, Fort Bend County Judge KP George, Fort Bend County Library, MD Anderson and Woodland Hills Elementary School for inviting us to share the rich culture of Japan with Houston.  

JASH Board Member and JASH ED named to New AAPI Advisory Board

Mon May 30, Mayor Sylvester Turner proudly announced the establishment of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Advisory Board, a momentous step towards fostering stronger connections between the City of Houston and its diverse communities. This newly formed board will serve as a vital bridge, ensuring that the voices, concerns, and contributions of the AAPI community are heard and included in the city’s decision-making processes.

Houston stands tall as the most diverse city in the nation, and Mayor Turner recognizes the importance of embracing and celebrating the vibrant cultures that weave together the fabric of Houston. With the establishment of the AAPI Advisory Board, the City of Houston reaffirms its commitment to upholding the values of inclusivity, respect, and representation.

“The formation of the Asian American and Pacific Islander Advisory Board is an exciting development for our city,” said Mayor Sylvester Turner. “Houston has a rich history of Asian immigrants contributing to our community for over 150 years. As the AAPI population has grown significantly in the past few decades, it is imperative that we continue to foster a sense of belonging and provide a platform for their voices to be heard. I am confident that this advisory board will play a pivotal role in addressing the concerns of the AAPI community and ensuring their needs are met, not just in my administration, but well into the future.”

The AAPI population in the Houston area has experienced remarkable growth, increasing from 1% to an impressive 26% in the past 50 years. With over 1.2 million AAPI residents in Harris County, Houston now ranks among the top 10 cities in the United States with the largest AAPI population.

Mayor Turner was joined by District F City Councilmember Tiffany Thomas, State Rep. Gene Wu, and AAPI Advisory Board Chair- Nomi Hussain. KHOU Anchor/Reporter, Shern- Min Chow, served as the mistress of ceremony.

“Asian-Americans are not a monolith or a silent community. Today’s announcement underscores the importance of creating space for all voices to be heard, seen, and acknowledged.”

-District F Councilmember Tiffany D. Thomas.

The newly appointed Asian American and Pacific Islander Advisory Board is made up of esteemed individuals who have dedicated themselves to serving their communities. The Advisory Board includes:

(AAPI Advisory Board Chair) 
o    Nomaan Husain 
(Members)
o    Wea Lee
o    Lufti Hassan
o    David Kim
o    Zafar Tahir
o    Jagdip Ahluwalia
o    Donna Cole
o    Helen Chang
o    Alice Lee
o    Kenneth Li
o    Shah Haleem
o    Hasu Patel
o    Muhammad Sheikh
o    Loloy Reyes
o    Murad Ajani
o    Paul Gor
o    Patsy Brown
o    Nancy Li
o    Bobby Singh
o    Casey Youn
o    Ben Chou
o    Bianca Mabute-Louie
o    Cindy Dinh
o    Sarah Syed
o    Victor Lee
o    Soren Valverde
o    Dieu Thao Khoa Nguyen
o    Tejal Patel
o    Darrien Bui
o    Rufi Natarajan
o    Miraj Patel
o    Lindsay Gee Calvert
o    Erin Orbe
o    Danny Nguyen
o    Glenda Joe
o    MJ Khan
o    Tony Ly
o    Dawn Lin
o    Glen Gondo
o    Stephen Le Jr.

Board Chair, Nomi Husain expressed enthusiasm for the opportunities that lie ahead, “It is with profound respect and gratitude that I thank Mayor Sylvester Turner for his vision in creating the new Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) board. His foresight underscores our city's commitment to celebrating diversity, fostering understanding, and empowering every community. This initiative is a significant step towards a more inclusive Houston, and for that, we owe Mayor Turner our sincerest appreciation.”

Mayor Turner and the City of Houston are committed to ensuring that Houston remains a city where everyone has a seat at the table, where diversity is celebrated, and where all communities are empowered to thrive. The establishment of the AAPI Advisory Board is a testament to this commitment, further cementing Houston’s position as a model of diversity, inclusion, and progress.

Houston News Media Celebrates Japan Festival's Return

Special thanks go out to KHOU 11 Great Day Houston with Deborah Duncan and KPRC Channel 2 for hosting interviews highlighting the grand comeback of Japan Festival Houston.

The 2023 festival followed a four-year long COVID hiatus and marked the 30th anniversary of the founding of the event. In addition, the event celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Japanese Garden and the 50th anniversary of the Houston-Chiba Sister City relationship.

2023 saw sumo join the performance lineup for the first time. The Festival also hosted the inaugural TEXAS KENDAMA SHOWDOWN, providing kendama enthusiasts — beginners and experts alike — a chance to show off mastery of an extensive trick list. 

To watch the televised interviews, click the buttons below:

Japan Festival Houston Makes a Comeback

Houston, WE MISS YOU ALREADY!

Our deepest gratitude and appreciation to everyone who joined us at Hermann Park on May 6 and 7, rain or shine, for the grand comeback of JAPAN FESTIVAL HOUSTON!

Following a four-year COVID-19 hiatus, 2023 marked the 30th anniversary of the Festival as well as the 30th anniversary of the Japanese Garden and the 50th anniversary of the Houston-Chiba Sister City relationship

This event is #FORHOU, and we were so happy to see your smiling faces!