The Obon Festival may have ended, but the spirit of the celebration continued at Cha-Ami! On September 5, Cha-Ami gathered with the wonderful volunteers who helped make this year’s Obon Festival at Como Park such a memorable event. It was a special opportunity to come together, share food and conversation, and, most importantly, say thank you. An event like Obon takes many hands. From setting up and decorating to welcoming visitors, helping with activities, preparing our table, selling items,...

On June 3, Cha-Ami Japanese Cultural Center had the pleasure of welcoming a group of 22 high school students as part of a themed educational field trip focused on Japanese culture and the imaginative world that has inspired generations of young people. During their visit, students participated in a hands-on Japanese calligraphy workshop led by Shimano-Sensei. The session introduced students to the art of shodō (書道), the traditional Japanese practice of brush writing that combines artistic...

We’re grateful to be part of so many meaningful community events across the Twin Cities this spring. It has been wonderful to connect with friends, families, and organizations who share an appreciation for Japanese culture and international friendship. This year, the Lunar New Year Celebration we were invited which was originally planned earlier in the season could not take place as scheduled due to fear and disruption happened in Minneapolis. As a result, the celebration was postponed and...