Written by Mackenzie Manley, Content Specialist, Downtown Main Library
Experience the art, food, and culture of Japan without even hopping on a plane.
Mark your calendars for the Downtown Main Library’s Passport to Japan on Saturday, Sept. 13, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event is in partnership with Asianati and the Japan America Society of Greater Cincinnati (JASGC).
Koji Sado, an Asianati board member and president of JASGC, grew up in both Japan the United States. Speaking on the event, he said he’s seen how people can sometimes only experience Japanese culture through anime or sushi restaurants.
“What excites me about Passport to Japan is that we're offering a wide range of authentic, hands-on experiences that go much deeper,” said Koji. “When someone sits down for a traditional tea ceremony or tries their hand at ikebana, they're not just learning a skill; they're connecting with centuries of traditions and culture. I hope the Library customers leave with a better understanding of Japan’s essence along with all the fun parts.”
Along with all-day events, attendees can look forward to scheduled activities throughout the day. Some activities require registration.
Passport to Japan Schedule
10:30-11:30 a.m.: Tea Ceremony Workshop*
Unwind with Chanoyu, a Japanese tea ceremony. The hour includes an introductory lecture and demonstration. Afterward, enjoy a bowl of matcha (green powder tea) with traditional Japanese confections.
11 am–Noon & 2-3 p.m.: Asianati Mascot Meet & Greet
Hang with Asianati’s Pikachu mascot. Bonus: It makes for a great photo-op.
11:30 am-1 p.m.: Japanese Calligraphy (Shodo) Workshop*
Registration is full. Explore Japanese calligraphy in this Shodo workshop.
Noon-1 p.m.: University of Cincinnati’s Kendo Club
Enjoy a demonstration from UC’s Kendo Club. Kendo is a traditional Japanese martial art that descended from the art of swordsmanship.
1 p.m.: Taiko Drum Performance
Experience a traditional performance from the Cincinnati Dayton Taiko Group.
1:30 p.m.: Taiko Drum Workshop
After the performance, stick around to learn to play the exciting and traditional art of Japanese taiko drums! Koji said that “people will be blown away” by the performance. “Taiko isn’t just music, it’s also about uplifting energy and community spirit.”
2-3:30 p.m.: Japanese Flower Arrangement (Ikebana) Workshop*
Registration is full. Immerse yourself in the ancient art of Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arrangement.
2:30 p.m.: “The Little Kokeshi Doll” Performance and Workshop*
Immerse yourself in the traditional Japanese art of Kamishibai, or paper theater. Watch as the story of The Little Kokeshi comes to life through visual storytelling combined with engaging narration. Koji, too, spoke on Kamishibai, citing his excitement for people to experience a form of storytelling he grew up with that many Americans have never experienced.
“The Kokeshi dolls and origami workshops will give people a chance to create something meaningful with their own hands,” said Koji.
*Pre-Registration Required
Collect Them All!
Bonus: Look out for a scavenger hunt! Starting at the desk at the Vine Street Entrance, attendees can collect five themed commemorative stickers.
All Day Events!
In between events, enjoy tables of crafts, swaps, games, and more. Activities include a manga and anime trinket swap, which will include items donated from Manga Manga, a bookstore in College Hill. The trinket table will also include a do-it-yourself Mini Manga booklet.
Want to get your name written in Japanese Calligraphy? Eri Sensei from the Sakura Juku Japanese Language School will do just that! Other crafts include origami, traditional Japanese paper folding; Notan art, an art aesthetic that balances light and shade; and Japanese fan-making. You can also learn the classic tabletop game Riichi Mahjong from teachers at Queen City Riichi.
Head to the kids’ area for crafts like cherry blossom painting, carpe windsails, Japanese fans, gummy sushi rolls, and a toddler chopstick giveaway.
“I'm excited to see kids and families experience these traditions together,” said Koji. “Culture is meant to be shared, and events like this are great opportunities to experience together.”
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