コロラド州と山形県が姉妹都市となったのは今からちょうど40年前の1986年です。 1984年に当時の県知事が東北地域国際投資促進訪米ミッションによりコロラド州を訪問したことががきっかけとなり、姉妹交流の機運が高まりました。コロラド州は自然環境に恵まれて山形県と類似する点も多く、コロラド州と交流を深めることは、山形県の国際化と県勢の発展に寄与するものとの判断されました。1986年にはコロラド州から当時の州知事Roy Romer氏が山形県を訪問し、同年12月に姉妹県州盟約が締結されました。 翌年5月にはJETRO Denver事務所(2004年に閉設)に県職員が派遣され、それは2000年まで続きました。同年7月には山形県知事がコロラド州を答礼訪問をしています。 その後も歴代の州知事が山形を訪れています。 交流形態は多岐に及び、州、県代表団の相互訪問、県内州内高校生および大学生による国際交流、学術交流、ビジネスミッションの派遣等の産業交流も盛んで、スキーや柔道などのスポーツ交流も行われています。 また節目ごとにさまざまな特別な交流機会が設けられています。20周年を迎えた2006年に県知事がコロラド州知事からの招待を受けコロラド州を訪問、州政府及びコロラド日米協会・日系人会共催主催晩餐会へ出席したほか、デンバー大学及びコロラド州立大学を訪問しています。また30周年を迎えた 2016年には知事、県議会議員、県酒造組合役員等が、州政府等への表敬訪問を行い、記念行事などに参加しました。同年には柔道交流事業等のため、コロラド州デンバー柔道交流団が山形県を訪れています。 コロラド日米協会はコロナ禍では州、県在住の学生同士のオンライン交流でのファシリテーターの役を果たしたり、在デンバー日本国総領事館の総領事、コロラド州政府の関係者、そしてJASC理事を昼食会に招き、ビジネスや教育から文化交流に至るまで、様々な分野における協力の可能性について率直な議論を交わす場を設けたりなど、様々な形で、コロラド州と山形県の交流のお手伝いをしています。また歴代のExecutive Directorによる県訪問も行っています。現Executive Director Claudine Locascioは過去二回訪問しています。 交流は今年で40周年を迎えます。7月末には吉村美栄子県知事のコロラド訪問が予定されており、コロラド州政府および山形県の共催で晩餐会がGovernor’s Mansionにて開催さます。 JASCのニュースレターでもご紹介しましたとおり、山形県はナショナルジオグラフィックの「2026年のベスト・デスティネーション」の一つに選ばれています。山形には蔵王をはじめとする国内有数のスキー場があります。また高く評価されている米沢和牛、ボリュームたっぷりの「イモニ （芋煮」」という鍋料理、そして酒蔵がたくさんあり、グルメにとっては大変おいしい観光スポットとなっています。 これを機にみなさんの日本観光ルートに山形県をくわえてみませんか。 https://yamagata-japan.jp/
The Power of Local U.S.-Japan Partnerships
June 1 may have brought the season’s first golf ball-sized hail to Denver, but in nearby Parker at The Pinery Country Club, golfers only had to dodge a few raindrops at the annual Colorado–Japan Charity Golf Tournament. It was a day of friendly competition, informal networking, and cultural connection. Proceeds from the event benefit Japanese education programs in Colorado. Tom Migaki, JASC Board member and tournament co-organizer, kicked things off by winning the pre-tournament putting contest. Attributing his win to a combination of good luck and the putting gods, Tom said it was “a great way to sink a putt and benefit the many education programs offered by the Japan America Society of Colorado.” After 18 holes of strategy (and again maybe a little luck), Eric Hiraga’s team (Eric, Justin Gilmore, Will Hillen, Jimmy Miller) emerged as the victors and will have their names engraved on the tournament trophy. "The best part of the tournament wasn't winning,” said Hiraga, “It was spending the day with great friends and colleagues while supporting an organization that plays an important role in strengthening ties between Colorado and Japan. Winning just gave us a little extra bragging rights until next year." Golfers got a short break along the course at hole L1, where they had the chance to test their origami skills by folding sheets of colorful paper into tiny sumo wrestlers. It was equal parts hilarious to see the golfers struggling with the correct folds and impressive to see so many tiny wrestlers emerge, even if not all looked quite like the example! Among the top winners were Oliver Garnica and board member Sherry Cree, who proved they could handle both a golf club and a delicate paper fold with equal skill. The fun continued into the evening with a sushi dinner prepared by famed chef Miki Hashimoto and attended by several special guests, including Consul General Okajima, Toshiro and Yuri Wakasugi of the Japanese School of Denver, JASC Board President Stephanie Garnica, and JBAR President Minori Matsuda. Their presence underscored the strong ties between Colorado and Japan and the importance of supporting cultural and educational programs that bring our communities closer. As JASC Executive Director Claudine Locascio noted at the end of the day, "The support we see at this tournament each year shows how deeply our community values the connection between Colorado and Japan. Every person here today helped strengthen that connection." A heartfelt thank you to United Airlines, our presenting sponsor; lunchbox sponsor Sumitomo Corporation of Americas; driver sponsors Mount Princeton Hot Springs, Sakata Farms, and Terumo Blood & Cell Technologies; and all other sponsors who made the tournament possible. Your support helps ensure that Japanese language and cultural education continues to thrive in Colorado. And of course, a big thanks to all our golfers for their enthusiastic participation. We’re already looking forward to next year’s tournament. Until then, congratulations to the winners—on the course, on the putting green, and at the origami table!
Looking to make some friends and speak Japanese at the same time?
Then join us this Saturday, June 20th, for Kaiwa Club! We're welcoming of all levels of speaking, so stop by and enjoy good times with some cool people!
🗓 Date: Saturday, June 20th
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
📍 Location: At the picnic tables in Edgewater Public Market in front of Arepas House
Kaiwa Club will always be linked in our bio under the Upcoming Events 🔗
If mountains are just too tempting and you miss this meeting, don't worry! We meet every other Saturday all year long :)
#japaneseconversation #kaiwaclub #japaneselearner #friends
Imagine jet-setting to any bucket-list destination on Earth, completely on us! 🎫
Our highly anticipated charity raffle features breathtaking prizes from our incredible corporate members, including a relaxing getaway from @mtprinceton and premier tires donated by @sumitomocorpofamericas.
The crowning jewel of our 2026 Charity Raffle is the ultimate grand prize: two round-trip tickets to fly anywhere in the world that @united flies. ✈️
Every single ticket purchased directly fuels our vital education programs and cultural initiatives that keep our local Colorado-Japan community thriving.
Don't miss your chance to win big while making a profound difference in cross-cultural exchange! 🌏
Drawing will take place at the 2026 JASC Annual Gala on September 9th at 9:00 PM. Winners do not need to be present.
Click the link in our bio to purchase your raffle tickets today! 🔗
#jasc #charityraffle #unitedairlines #mtprinceton #sumitomo #supportlocal
Our phenomenal dragon boat team, Nichi-Bei-GO, recently traded the intense rhythm of the paddles for the warm, relaxed atmosphere of @barquentinebrewingco for a well-deserved team hangout! 🐲🚣♀️
As a proud team sponsor, Barquentine perfectly hosted our crew! We are deeply grateful for their generous, ongoing support, which fuels our team's energy both on the water and out in the community.
Cheers to a fantastic sponsor helping us paddle toward a spectacular season! 🍻
Click the link in our bio to learn more about our dragon boat team and how you can get involved! 🔗
JASC connects Colorado and Japan through golf ⛳
The sun-drenched, private fairways of the Pinery Country Club provided the ultimate backdrop for an extraordinary day of sport, networking, and vibrant cross-cultural camaraderie.
From the high-stakes excitement of the course challenges to a premium sushi dinner under the Colorado sky, the energy of our community was truly unmatched.
We are endlessly grateful to every golfer, volunteer, and attendee whose incredible enthusiasm made this tournament an unforgettable triumph. Your participation directly fuels our vital education initiatives, ensuring that cultural exchange continues to thrive across our state.
Click the link in our bio to read our full blog recap! 🔗
#japancolorado #charitygolf #communityimpact #crossculturalexchange
Prepare to paint your palate with a vibrant kaleidoscope of seasonal colors, exquisite textures, and rich traditions! 🎨
The highly anticipated #JASCSushiSeries returns in collaboration with the Consulate-General of Japan in Denver with an interactive culinary adventure where you will learn to build your very own magnificent bowl of chirashizushi. This beloved "scattered sushi" dish transforms fresh, premium toppings and perfectly seasoned rice into a breathtaking, personalized canvas of edible art.
No complicated rolling techniques are required for this session, just your passion, a dash of creativity, and a love for authentic Japanese cuisine. Gather your friends or come make new ones as we slice, style, and savor our way through this spectacular cultural workshop! 👩🍳
🗓 Date: Tuesday, July 21st
⏰ Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM
📍 Location: JASC Office Building (1373 Grant St, Denver, CO 80203)
Click the link in our bio to learn more and register! 🔗
#japancolorado #jasc #CGJD #chirashizushi #denverfoodies #learnjapanesecuisine
Imagine the sun-drenched courtyard of Sakura Square echoing with laughter as colorful, water-filled balloons bob gracefully in a splashing pool of water.
This year, we are bringing the pure magic of a traditional Japanese summer festival directly to Denver with the beloved game of yoyo tsuri!
Armed with a delicate paper string hook, your focus narrows as you attempt to snare your favorite vibrant, swirling pattern before the string dissolves.
It is a thrilling, nostalgic challenge that promises to be the ultimate highlight of your weekend festivities. Bring your friends, test your dexterity, and take home a beautiful, bouncy piece of Japanese culture!
🗓 Date: June 27 and June 28, 2026
⏰ Time: Saturday 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM | Sunday 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
📍 Location: Sakura Square (1950 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202)
Click the link in our bio to learn more!
#japancolorado #jasc #denvercherryblossom #yoyotsuri #sakurasquare #japanesetradition #summerfestival
Our incredible dragon boat team, Nichi-Bei-GO, is officially kicking off their season, and it is not too late to claim your spot on the water! 🐲🛶
If you are looking for a fantastic Japan-related team to join, enjoy being out on a boat, and are ready to smile and sweat, please join us!
Dive into an unforgettable experience where you will feel the thrilling rhythm of the drum and build amazing friendships under the summer sun. Spots are filling up fast for this vibrant crew, so don't let the boat leave the dock without you! ✨
Click the link in our bio to register! 🔗
#dragonboatfestival #dragonboatteam #nichibeigo #japancolorado #summerfun #jasc #coloradoculture
JASC connects Colorado and Japan through temarizushi! 🍣
Our JASC Office was absolutely buzzing with vibrant energy and color as participants stepped into the delightful world of these traditional, embroidered ball-inspired delicacies.
Guided by the spirit of creativity, everyone masterfully learned the intricate "twist and press" technique to sculpt their own bite-sized photogenic masterpieces without needing a single rolling mat. ✨
The room was filled with laughter, shared stories, and the undeniable joy of cultural discovery as beautiful toppings transformed into edible works of art.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and brought so much passion to this stunning session! Save the date for our next session: Chirashi Chapter on Tuesday, July 21st, starting at 6:30 pm!
#jascsushiseries #temarizushi #japancolorado #denverfoodies #japaneseculture #sushiseries #coloradoculture
Sip, savor, and support an incredible global journey right here in our community! Our friends @broomfieldsistercities are hosting a delicious all-day fundraiser to benefit the upcoming Ueda student exchange trip.
By enjoying a meal filled with vibrant flavors, you can directly contribute to enriching a Colorado experience for youth from Ueda, Japan.
Simply let your server know you are dining in solidarity with Broomfield Sister Cities, and 20% of your bill will go straight towards funding this life-changing cultural exchange.
Gather your friends and family for a wonderful day of community spirit and great food!
🗓 Date: June 03, 2026
⏰ Time: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
📍 Location: 3 Margaritas in Broomfield (6896 W 120th Ave, Broomfield, CO 80020)
Note: if you can't make it to the fundraiser and would like to contribute to the cause, you can donate directly to the exchange trip using the link in our bio 🔗
#broomfieldsistercities #uedaexchange #communityfundraiser #coloradoculture #japancolorado
Konnichiwa! 👋 Always wanted to learn Japanese, especially for a trip?
Our Passport to Japan 1 class is designed just for you! Dive into fun, conversational learning that's perfect for first-time travelers. Summer 2026 registration is OPEN ~ let's learn together!
Class starts June 4th! Click the link in our bio to register 🔗
#Japanese #languagelearners #triptojapan #nihongo
JASC connects Colorado and Japan through Children's Day & Mother's Day! 🎏
We are still buzzing from the incredible energy at The Art Center of Western Colorado, where families and culture enthusiasts gathered to celebrate the beautiful intersection of Children's Day on Mother's Day.
Attendees in Grand Junction were immersed in captivating art forms and vibrant traditions that brought the event to life. ✒️
A massive thank you to everyone who joined us for this unforgettable afternoon of creativity, connection, and cross-cultural bridge-building!
#japancolorado #JASC #grandjunctionarts #westernslopeculture #kodomonohi #mothersday #communitybridge
Our dragon boat team (Nichi-Bei-GO) is kicking off their season with their first practice coming up this Saturday, May 9th 🐲
✨If you're interested in joining, it's not too late, and there are still spots on the team!✨
Learn more about our dragon boat team and register with the link in our bio 🔗
If you are looking for a Japan-related team to join, enjoy being in a boat, and are ready to smile and sweat, please join us!
#dragonboatfestival #dragonboatteam #nichibeigo #japancolorado #summerfun
🚶♀️How do you take the first steps toward an international business career?
⛩What kind of jobs might require Japanese language skills?
💱Will a major in international finance translate to a job in Colorado?
🌐What if I want to work for a foreign company?
University of Colorado Boulder students posed these and other questions to a group of seven mentors visiting their campus on the evening of Wednesday, April 1st, for a "speed-mentoring" event organized by the Japan America Society of Colorado.
✨The event was made possible by a grant from the Japan Foundation, New York. JASC plans to hold a second mentoring event in the fall at Colorado State University.
🔗To read the full blog post on this event, click the link in our bio.
Stay tuned for more information on the next mentoring event!
Art you can eat? Yes, please! 🎨🍣
The JASC Sushi Series continues with Session #2: Temari Treats! Named after traditional Japanese embroidered balls, these colorful, round sushi gems are as fun to make as they are to eat.
Come learn the "twist and press" technique to create these bite-sized masterpieces. No rolling mats required for this one, just a little creativity and some toppings!
🗓 Saturday, May 9th
⏰ 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
📍 JASC Office Building (1373 Grant St, Denver, CO 80203)
$20 for Members | $25 for General Public
Don't miss the most photogenic session of the series. Space is limited, so click the link in our bio to snag your spot!
If you're looking to maintain and strengthen your Japanese language skills, Kaiwa Club is perfect for you! All levels are welcome, so come and meet others with the same interest in practicing Japanese.
🌼May Dates are Saturdays the 9th and 23rd
⏰Starts at 10 am
📍At the picnic tables in Edgewater Public Market in front of Arepas House
Kaiwa Club will always be linked in our bio under the Upcoming Events 🔗
If the end-of-year/graduation season becomes too busy and you miss the May meetings, don't worry! We meet every other Saturday all year long :)
#japaneseconversation #kaiwaclub #japaneselearner #friends
🏆 160 Students. 11 Schools. 1 Incredible Day. 🏆
Last Saturday, we had our 2026 Japan Cup Competition, and the energy was electric! An event this big doesn't happen by magic; it's actually our largest volunteer effort of the year. A massive thank you to our 64 incredible volunteers who dedicated their time to make this possible for our competitors! 🙌
The competition was fierce! Out of 160 participants, these 12 finalist teams proved they have what it takes to be the best in the state.
We were especially honored to welcome the Consul General of Japan in Denver, Mr. Hiroyuki Okajima, for his second Japan Cup! Thank you for supporting our students through all four Final Rounds.
Thank you @templeunivjapan for their ongoing sponsorship of this event. We are so grateful and don't know how we'd do it without you!
Help us celebrate everyone's hard work! Drop a "Congratulations" or a "👏" in the comments :)
#JapanCup2026 #Japaneselanguage #Coloradostudents #Japaneseculture #Fiercecomptition #studyJapanese
Huge thank you to the incredible Presenting Sponsor: United, who consistently steps up to the tee for our Colorado-Japan Charity Golf Tournament! ⛳
Your support goes far beyond the fairway. It directly funds our vibrant Japanese cultural programs and the Japanese School in Denver that keeps our community alive and thriving. We are incredibly grateful for your generosity.
Want to be part of the impact? We are still looking for sponsors to help us expand our cultural outreach. Send us a DM or visit the link in our bio to see how you can sponsor our mission! 🌸
Whether you're a regular attendee of our Kaiwa Club or have been planning on joining, mark your calendar with the upcoming dates for April!
🗓 Dates: Saturdays, April 11th & 25th
⏰ Time: 10 am - 12 pm
📍 Location: Edgewater Public Market
We meet every other Saturday as a place for native and non-native Japanese speakers to use their language skills in a relaxed space.
Kaiwa Club information can ALWAYS be found on our website 🔗 link in our bio!
We understand that if you don't use it, you lose it, so come use your Japanese with us!
#kaiwaclub #kaiwa #jascolorado #edgewaterpublicmarket #nihongo
"I was honored to attend the 10th Anniversary party of Matsuhisa Denver last week 🍣
Matsuhisa has catered the last three JASC Annual Galas, pretty much guaranteeing that our Gala has the best food of any event in town! The entire Matsuhisa team is a pleasure to work with, and so I was thrilled to help them celebrate this wonderful milestone event.
I was most excited to meet Chef Nobu Matsuhisa himself, who was present at the event, along with Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, and long-time JASC members Courtney Ozaki, who played taiko, Gil Asakawa, who wrote up the event for Westword, Sogetsu Ikebana leaders Seiko Yoshikawa and Kimiko Kuno, and JASC Board Member Katrina Yoshida. JASC was well represented!" ✨
~ Claudine Locascio, JASC Executive Director
Neither the biting cold nor the falling snow could dampen the spirits of the Japan America Society of Colorado (JASC) and the Japanese Business Association of the Rockies (JBAR) during our recent joint Happy Hour!
The evening was highlighted by the presence of the Consul General of Japan in Denver, Mr. Hiroyuki Okajima, who not only shared in the festivities but also showcased some impressive skills at the ping-pong table.🏓
Thank you to everyone who made the trek through the snow to make this evening a resounding success!
We had our very first happy hour in Grand Junction, and the energy was incredible! Our mission is simple: bridging the gap between every corner of the state to connect anyone with a shared love for Japan. ⛩
Whether you've lived there, are learning the language, or just appreciate the culture, seeing this community come together on the Western Slope was a dream. We had a huge turnout, proving that no matter where you are in the state, the connection to Japan is strong!
Huge thanks to everyone who showed up and shared a drink with us. Stay tuned for where we head next! 🚗
#connectingcolorado #japanhappyhour #grandjunctionevents
It was a pleasure to recently visit the team at Eberspächer Variex for a deep dive into Japanese business etiquette! From the nuance of a proper meishi (business card) exchange to navigating communication styles, understanding these customs is the key to building lasting, respectful partnerships in Japan.
Success in the Japanese market starts with cultural confidence. We encourage all of our corporate members to take advantage of this exclusive benefit! Whether your team is preparing for an upcoming trip or hosting Japanese partners here in Colorado, JASC offers tailored training.
We invite you to experience the ultimate fusion of elite sport and Japanese hospitality. This year, the Colorado-Japan Charity Golf Tournament elevates the experience to the private fairways of The Pinery Country Club.
In addition to the game of golf, we have our:
⛩ Cultural activity at one of the holes
🍣 Authentic sushi dinner to refuel after a full day in the sun
✈️ Raffle with epic prizes, including a round-trip flight to Japan!
🗓 Date: June 1, 2026
⏰ Time: Shotgun at 1 PM
📍 Location: The Pinery Country Club (6900 N Pinery Pkwy, Parker, CO 80134)
Early Bird Pricing (until 5/1):
~ Individual: $250
~ Foursome: $875
*Includes a box lunch before the tournament and a free drink on the course.
Sponsorship options available!
ALL proceeds from this tournament are used for the Japanese education programs of Japan America Society of Colorado and Japanese Business Association of the Rockies.
Join our Colorado-Japan Charity Golf Tournament to support cross-cultural exchange between Colorado and Japan through this unique experience.
⭐Click the link in our bio to register today!⭐
Ready to take your career global? Join us for an intensive speed-mentoring session 👩💼👨💼
This is your chance to gain direct insights from industry professionals, including JASC board members and representatives from 300 year-old Japanese company Shoyeido ⛩
It's free! so click the link in our bio to register🔗
We officially launched our Sushi Series last month, and we couldn’t have asked for a more enthusiastic turnout. Our first session, “Inari Inventions,” moved away from the high-pressure precision of rolling maki and focused instead on the golden world of abura-age (seasoned tofu pouches). 💛
The goal was simple: provide the canvas, and let our participants provide the “inventions.”
The workshop began with a brief presentation on the history of Inari. Attendees mastered the delicate art of opening the fragile tofu pockets and “packing” them for both aesthetics and structural integrity. While traditional vinegared rice remains the gold standard, our “Inventors” experimented with textures including sesame seeds, carrots, and even lemon! 🥕🍋
“We had a blast. Met great people while learning something I knew so little about…”
If you missed this session, don’t worry! We are just getting started with this series. Our next gathering will be on Saturday, May 9th, so save the date!
#jascsushiseries #makingsushi #japaneseculture #welovesushi
Experience the pinnacle of Colorado’s greens at the Colorado-Japan Charity Golf Tournament. ⛳✨
We are proud to host this year’s event at one of the state’s most prestigious private country clubs, offering our guests a rare opportunity to play on a world-class course that is typically closed to the public. This isn’t just a round of golf; it’s an afternoon of refined competition, networking, and philanthropy, bridging our two cultures for a meaningful cause.
The Setting: An exclusive, high-end private course with breathtaking views.
The Purpose: All proceeds support ongoing JASC cultural education programs and the Japanese school of Denver.
The Experience: Premium hospitality, Japanese-inspired refreshments, and a once-in-a-lifetime walk on the fairways.
Save the Date. Formal registration details and sponsorship opportunities will be released shortly. 🥂
Japan Cup 2026 is officially less than one month away!
Check out this competitor POV for a sneak peek at what competition day holds 🏆
#2026JapanCup #POV #Japanese #Culture
Ready to level up your language skills? Check out our Japanese Conversation Club's fresh lineup of meetups for March! 🌸
Whether you’re just starting with "Konnichiwa" or you're dreaming in Japanese, our Kaiwa Club sessions are the perfect place to practice in a zero-pressure environment. We hope to see you at Edgewater Public Market! 📍
When: March 14th & 28th | Starting at 10 am
Level: All levels welcome.
Vibe: Friendly, supportive, and fun.
Let us know in the comments if we'll see you there! 👇
Quantum Connections: The Full Cut. 🎬🎬
Every insight, every connection, and every "aha!" moment is now available on YouTube. Don't just watch the highlights—get the full story.
✨ Click the link in our bio to subscribe and watch!
Unlock a New Language and Join Our Japanese Class!
Ever wanted to travel to Japan with confidence, or just challenge your brain with a beautiful new skill? Now is the perfect time to start!
Our classes are designed to be engaging, interactive, and built around real-life Japanese you can actually use.
Class Details:
🗓 Dates: March 12, 19, 26 | April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
⏰ Passport 1 (Beginner)= 4:30 - 6:30 pm
📍 Location: Sakura Square | Mezzanine Room (1950 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202)
What to Expect:
✅ Essential phrases for real-life conversations
✅ Useful vocabulary for navigating your trip
✅ Cultural insights you won't find in a textbook
Space is limited, so grab your spot soon! 🏃♀️💨
🔗Link in bio to register!
#japaneseclass #learnjapanese #languagelearning
Your February "date" calendar is here!❤
Still looking for the perfect Valentine's plan? Whether you're bringing a partner, a bestie, or just your love for Japanese culture, our February lineup is the perfect match!
We're celebrating our community as one big group with great conversation and food.
✨The Lineup:
🗓Feb 14: Valentine's Kaiwa Club
The ultimate low-pressure group hang. Perfect for couples looking for a unique morning out or singles looking to practice Japanese!
📍 Edgewater Public Market (5505 W 20th Ave, Edgewater, CO 80214)
⏰10 am - 12 pm
🗓Feb 21: Sushi Series: Inari Inventions (New!)
Get hands-on and learn the art of Inari zushi in this special workshop.
🍣Price: $15 for Members | $20 for General Public
📍 JASC Office Building (1373 Grant St, Denver, CO 80203)
⏰10 am - 12 pm
🗓Feb 14: Kaiwa Club
Keep the momentum going and end the month with more great conversation!
📍 Edgewater Public Market (5505 W 20th Ave, Edgewater, CO 80214)
⏰10 am - 12 pm
For more information and to register for the sushi class, click the link in our bio🔗
👇Drop a "❤" in the comments if we'll see you at Kaiwa Club tomorrow!
#dateideas #denver #japaneseculture #valentinesday #sushiclass
Get ready to "stuff" your face (literally!) 🦊🍣
We're kicking off our brand new Sushi Series at JASC, and we're starting super simple with Inari Inventions! Come learn how to craft these delicious fried tofu pockets stuffed with seasoned rice and creative toppings.
The best part? It's in-person and all ingredients are provided. Just bring your appetite and a pair of helping hands!
🗓 Saturday, February 21st
⏰ 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
📍 JASC Office Building (1373 Grant St, Denver, CO)
$15 for members | $20 for General Public
Don't miss out on the first session of the series. Space is limited, so click here to grab your spot now! https://www.jascolorado.org/event-calendar#!event/2026/2/21/sushi-series-inari-inventions
JASC connects Colorado and Japan through Calligraphy🖌✨
Last month, we had an incredible session of our Let's Shodo Japanese Calligraphy workshop, guided by the expert hand of Mamiko Ikeda-sensei.
The kanji might not be perfect yet, but the experience certainly was!
#LetsShodo #JapaneseCalligraphy #JapaneseCulture
JASC connects Colorado and Japan through Music🎶
A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for our VIP event last month! We are still buzzing from the incredible energy in the room.
It was a true honor to partner with the @coloradosymphony. Bringing together our community of Colorado-Japan businesses and individuals, and the Symphony's world-class artistry, made for a night we won't soon forget. Thank you for helping us hit all the right notes! 🎹✨
From left to right: JASC Executive Director Claudine Locascio, Japanese Pianist Makoto Ozone, Consul General of Japan in Denver Hiroyuki Okajima, Guest Conductor Jun Märkl, Colorado Symphony CEO Daniel Wachter
#JASC #ColoradoArts #HarmonyAcrossBorders #LiveMusicColorado #ConductingCommunity
Quantum leap? More like a Quantum Connection!🌀
JASC connects Colorado and Japan through Quantum...
Last week, over 80 guests joined us at MSU Denver to hear from industry leaders about how Colorado and Japan are leading the world in quantum tech. We were so proud to facilitate this bridge between our local professionals and the visiting Japanese delegation.
A massive thank you to our panelists, volunteers, and members for making this event such a packed house!
From left to right: Dan Salvetti, David Mitlyng, Michelle Hadwiger, Sristy Argawal, Hiro Mori, Ian Dickinson, Jessi Olsen, Claudine Locascio, Andy Wylegala
🎥 We'll let you know when the event recording is posted on our YouTube channel, so stay tuned!
#JASC #QuantumConnections #ColoradoJapan #TechCommunity
The future of Quantum is global 🌐
We are proud to present "Japan Currents: Colorado-Japan Quantum Connections." Join us on Thursday, January 29th, at 4:30 PM for a rare opportunity to engage directly with local experts and a visiting delegation of innovative quantum experts traveling from Japan.
⚠ We are now less than two weeks out and have only 15 seats left!
Why attend?
✅Expert Insights: Gain a deep understanding of the Colorado-Japan quantum corridor
✅International Networking: Connect with overseas innovators and local leaders during refreshment hour following the discussion
✅ Community Access: Attendance is free, courtesy of a generous grant from the National Association of Japan America Societies and the Embassy of Japan.
RSVP IS MANDATORY. Given the limited venue capacity, we kindly ask that if your plans change, you notify us promptly so we may release your spot to someone on the waitlist.
Secure one of the final spots today! Register with the link in our bio 🔗
In the spirit of the New Year, students at Red Rocks Community College recently explored the beautiful tradition of Nengajo (Japanese New Year cards). Historically, these cards are sent to express gratitude to friends and family for their support in the past year.
Our Japan in the Schools program brings these vibrant cultural experiences directly to Colorado classrooms, bridging the gap between Denver and Tokyo through hands-on learning.
What’s your goal for the New Year? Tell us in the comments! ⛩️
#JapanInTheSchools #Nengajo #CulturalExchange #NewYear2026
As we look back on the year during our Bonenkai, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for our incredible community. Thank you to all members for your unwavering support and for being the biggest part of our 2025 journey. 🥂
We can't wait to see what we achieve together in the year ahead!
#memberappreciation #thankyou #buildingtogether #bonenkai
あけましておめでとう！
May the coming year bring you nothing but joy and prosperity. Sending love and light to you and your family as we start this fresh journey together ✨
Thank you to everyone who participated in our Nengajo Contest! The talent this year was incredible. We are excited to reveal that this winning design was created by our current intern, 🎉Tora Pate!🎉 Thank you, Tora, for helping us ring in the New Year with such beautiful artwork.
Our Japanese Calligraphy Workshop, featuring Mamiko Ikeda-sensei, is filling up fast! Only 2 spots left!
🗓Date: Saturday, January 17th 2026
⏰Time: 10 am - 12 pm
📍Location: JASC Office Building (1373 Grant St, Denver, CO 80203)
🔗Click the link in our bio and let's Shodo!
If you want to be one of the first to receive notifications about our upcoming events, become a member to join our exclusive member emailing list. You can join for just $5/month!
#letsshodo #japanesecalligraphy #traditionalart #culturalexperience
What a year! 🚀
We’ve been busy bridging cultures and sharpening skills:
💼 Over 200 people trained in Japanese Business Protocol
🏫 3,000 students reached via Japan in the Schools
🤝 67 companies & over 500 members working together to make JASC shine
Cheers to a year of learning, growth, and community impact! ✨
Attention Japan Cup Participants! 📣
Your updated Japan Cup Study Guide is now officially available!
Your winter break is the perfect time to dive in and get a head start on your preparation. For your upcoming competition in culture, language, and current events, the guide has everything you need to succeed.
Take this time to study hard, stay focused, and enjoy the learning process. We are rooting for you!
Link to the updated guides are in our bio! 🔗
Good luck, and がんばってください! 💪
#japancup #studyguide #competitionprep #ganbatte #japanesestudies
LAST CALL, chefs! 👩🍳
Get ready to master the ultimate holiday menu that'll give you a taste of Christmas in Japan. We're closing out the year by teaching you two festive essentials: a show-stopping Christmas Cake and the addictively crispy Kaarage Fried Chicken!
🗓 Sunday, December 21st
⏰ 3 pm (MST)
📍 Online via Zoom
$10 for Members/$15 for General Public
🔗Click the link in our bio and book your spot now!
#holidaycookingclass #virtualholidayparty #ouchigohan #cheflife
Kaiwa club is perfect for growing your Japanese language skills!
❄December Dates are Saturdays the 6th and 20th
🎆January Dates are Saturdays the 3rd, 17th, and 31st
⏰Starts at 10 am
📍At the picnic tables in Edgewater Public Market in front of Arepas
Kaiwa Club will always be linked in our bio under the Upcoming Events 🔗
If you're holiday season becomes too busy and you miss the December and January meetings, don't worry! We meet every other Saturday all year long :)
#japaneseconversation #kaiwaclub #japaneselearner #friends
We had a wonderful time at the Bonsai Workshop! 🌳
Thank you so much to our talented instructors for dedicating their time and sharing their invaluable expertise on shaping, wiring, and caring for these miniature masterpieces.
It was a truly informative and inspiring session. We can't wait to see how everyone's trees grow!
#bonsaitrees #workshoprecap #bonsailearning
In the spirit of appreciation, and as a national day of observance in the US, we're pausing to reflect on the power of partnership.
To everyone who has dedicated time, shared expertise, or offered unwavering support to our organization this year - we see you, and we are profoundly grateful. Your belief in our work is our greatest resource. Thank you for making our shared vision a reality. We look forward to continuing this journey with you!
#ThankYouCommunity
JASC is mourning the loss of our dear friend, Edo Kite Master Mikio Toki. His smile, friendship, and impact on Colorado students will never be forgotten.
Happy Labor Thanksgiving Day! (勤労感謝の日→きんろうかんしゃのひ) We're thankful for every person who contributes to our society.
This year, make your thank-you tangible like the Japanese tradition! Create a card or small gift to a service worker in your life. Special shout-out to the resilience of our federal workers like those at @denairport (one of our dedicated Investor members) - they need and deserve our appreciation more than ever. Swipe through our slides to learn more about the holiday!
#ThankYouServiceWorkers #LaborDayOrThanks #GiveThanks #SmallGiftBigImpact
Join us for a Saturday morning Bonsai Workshop taught by certified Bonsai experts from the Denver Botanic Gardens! 🎄
The immersive experience begins with a lecture on the history and types of Bonsai, followed by a live demonstration of essential trimming and shaping techniques.
The best part? The final portion is a hands-on session where you'll create your very own miniature masterpiece!
We provide everything you need:
✂ Shears for the workshop
🌱 You will leave the class with your own tree, a training pot, and wire to continue your Bonsai journey at home!
Click the link in our bio to learn more and register today! ➡🔗
#Bonsai #coloradogardening #weekendworkshop
The last four days were back-to-back holidays in Colorado and Japan!
🌸Yesterday (November 3rd) was Culture Day or 文化の日 (Bunka no Hi) in Japan. It is a day to promote culture, the arts, and academic endeavors. Celebrations across the country often include art exhibitions, cultural festivals, parades, and award ceremonies, such as the prestigious Order of Culture presented by the Emperor.
💀This weekend (November 1st & 2nd) was Dia de los Muertos, which translates from Spanish to Day of the Dead. For families with Mexican heritage in Colorado, especially those whose roots in the state predate the U.S. statehood, the tradition of honoring the dead has been preserved for generations through family ofrendas (alters) in their homes. This holiday has similarities to Japan's Obon in August.
🎃Friday (October 31st) was Halloween. A very popular holiday in the U.S. known for the opportunity for children to receive candy through trick or treating in costumes. Halloween is now also celebrated in Japan, but they did not include the trick-or-treating tradition. Instead, like many adults in the U.S., Japanese adults will dress up in costumes and attend parties with friends.
Together, these holidays show us that cultural celebration is a universal language, constantly evolving, and a vital part of what defines us both locally and globally!
Let us know in the comments which of these holidays you celebrated...
Learn how to make Hot Pot at home with our Ouchigohan program! 🍲
🗓Date: Sunday, November 16th
⏰Time: 4:00 p.m. (MST)
📍Location: Online via Zoom!
$10 for members
$15 for non-members
🔗Click the link in our bio to register!
See you there!
#ouchigohan #hotpot #udon #japancolorado #japanesecooking #japaneserecipe #cookingtogether
We're looking for a creative member to design our organization's official 2026 Nengajo (Japanese New Year's Card)! 🎉 The winning design will be sent digitally to all our members, and the artist will receive a fantastic prize package 🏆
Design Requirements:
~ Year: 2026 clearly featured
~ Zodiac: for 2026, the horse
~ Logo Placeholder: blank box or outline, see 2 types on website
~ Greeting: あけましておめでとうございます / Happy New Year
~ Size: standard 4" x 6" postcard
~ File Type: PNG, PDF, or high-quality JPEG
~ Originality: must be your original creation
~ Bonus: integrate themes from both Japan and the state of Colorado. Show how these cultures connect!
🏆Prize🏆
~ A FREE 1-year Individual Membership to JASC
~ A $25 Gift Card to Kokoro
How & When to Submit:
~ Deadline: November 30th
~ Submit to: jascolorado.org/nengajo-contest
We can't wait to see your incredible designs!
#nengajocontest #postcarddesign #newyearscard #yearofthehorse #coloradojapan
Whether you're a regular attendee of our Kaiwa Club or have been planning on joining, mark your calendar with the upcoming dates for November!
🗓Dates: Saturdays, November 8th & 22nd
⏰Time: 10 am - 12 pm
📍Location: Edgewater Public Market
We meet every other Saturday as a place for native and non-native Japanese speakers to use their language skills in a relaxed space.
Kaiwa Club information can ALWAYS be found on our website 🔗 link in our bio!
We understand that if you don't use it, you lose it, so come use your Japanese with us!
#kaiwaclub #kaiwa #jascolorado #edgewaterpublicmarket #nihongo
Learn the art of Japanese floral arrangement! 🌼 Join us for an Ikebana Workshop on November 1st from 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM at the Broomfield Community Center.
Not only will you create a stunning piece of art, but you'll also be supporting the @broomfieldsistercities high school exchange trip to Ueda, Japan! Your ticket helps provide an immersive cultural experience for local teens.
👉Register now (link in bio!) to secure your spot and support cultural exchange!
Roll up your sleeves and feed your soul! 🍙
Join us for our unforgettable Onigiri Onegai, where we're mixing hands-on fun with a powerful purpose! You'll get to immerse yourself in Japanese culture by learning how to make and enjoy onigiri, Japan's ultimate comfort food.
But the fun doesn't stop with the food! Your presence supports an incredible cause: for every photo shared with the official hashtag #OnigiriAction, 5 children in need will be fed!
Come for the delicious food, stay for the great company, and leave with a full heart knowing you've made a difference. Let's learn, eat, and give back together!
🗓Date: Saturday, October 25th
⏰Time: 10 am - 12 pm
📍Location: JASC Office Building (1373 Grant St, Denver, CO 80203)
🔗Click the link in our bio to register now!
The moment you've been waiting for is here! 🎉Our SILENT AUCTION IS OFFICIALLY LIVE, and bidding is open on a spectacular array of items!
Browse and bid on:
🕹 Two (2) Pachinko Machines
🥀 Ikebana Vases
🎫 Tickets & Gift Cards
🍚 Stunning Tableware
👘 Traditional Clothing
🎎 Japanese Dolls
✨Don't miss out on these incredible treasures✨
IMPORTANT NOTE for Non-Gala Attendees: If you win an item and are not attending our gala, you must be able to pick it up from our DOWNTOWN DENVER OFFICE. We do not ship items.
Click the link in our bio to start bidding now! 🔗
✨Relive the night✨ where we celebrate HARMONY & HORIZONS! A massive thank you to our presenting sponsor, @united, and all of the sponsors for making this incredible evening possible.
The atmosphere was set by the beautiful floral arrangements from @sogetsucolorado 💐, and guests savored the exquisite catering by @matsuhisadenver 🍣. The spectacular sounds of the @coloradosymphony string quartet 🎻 and the warm welcome from @lawswhiskey 🥂 elevated the experience. There was even a unique photo op with a giant paper crane created by @japaneseartsnetwork.
We were honored to hear inspiring opening remarks from Governor Jared Polis, alongside our dedicated leaders, Executive VP of our Board, John Hayato Branderhorst and Executive Director Claudine Locascio.
Congratulations to our award recipients: @sumitomocorpofamericas for the Company Award, and Seiko Yoshikawa of Sogetsu Colorado for the Volunteer Award!
As you can see, we represented the theme of Harmony & Horizons with origami cranes. The fragile, beautiful origami crane is our collective wish for the future. Like a bird taking flight, it points toward our horizons, representing the hope, healing, and limitless potential of our collaboration. It reminds us that through intentional effort and shared endeavor, we can always fold a future defined by peace and deeper connection across the miles. 🏔️🤝🌸
#2025JASCGala #HarmonyAndHorizons #CulturalExchange #DenverEvents
Today is a beautiful holiday in Japan 🌝
It is the mid-autumn full moon, which means people will celebrate お月見 (o-tsuki mi) - a moon viewing holiday.
Common activities to celebrate お月見 are:
🌕Night picnics for admiring the beauty of this particular moon
🍡Seasonal Tsukimi menus at restaurant chains
🎶Festivals with traditional music
Here in Colorado, we can join in on the festivities with a night picnic or a moment for admiring the mid-autumn full moon.
Check out our full article on the moon viewing holiday in our 日本語コラム linked in our bio 🔗all of the articles are fully in Japanese... a great opportunity for reading practice! 📖
It's Sports Day in Japan! 🏂🏓⚾🎾🏐🥋🏀
In Japanese, today is called 運動会 (Undoukai) which directly translates to exercise meeting. The holiday was created to commemorate the opening ceremony of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. It is honored today to encourage physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.
Do you play a sport? Which one?
What is your favorite way to stay active and healthy?
💬Let is know in the comments below!💬
Mark your calendars! 📅 Our Silent Auction is officially going live Sunday, October 12!
Get ready to bid on some truly unique and beautiful items. This year, we're featuring a stunning collection including splendid traditional Japanese dolls, elegant Ikebana vases, gorgeous traditional Japanese clothing, and beautiful tableware.
Don't miss your chance to win a piece of unique art and culture. Browse the items now (link in bio!) and set your alarms so you can grab the treasures you're hoping to take home!
#SilentAuction #JapaneseArt #Ikebana #TraditionalClothing #Tableware #GoingLive #October12 #MarkYourCalendars
October is Onigiri month! 🍙
While we will be hosting an onigiri-making class in person a week after this event, we still encourage you to attend this month’s Ouchigohan! It’s the perfect opportunity to get inspiration for our onigiri event. Plus, learn to make the delicious spinach Ohitashi and a kabocha soup!
🗓 October 18th
⏰ 4 pm (MDT)
📍 Online via Zoom
$10 for Members/$15 for General Public
Click the link in our bio to register!
Even if you can't attend this months Ouchigohan or Onigiri Onegai, Onigiri Action starts October 7th and goes until November 15th, so be sure to make an onigiri or two and share it with the special hashtag.
JASC is excited to co host a Japanese Urushi Lacquerware event with JapanCraft21!💎
Experience the art and mystery of Japanese Urushi Lacquerware - one of the world’s most precious yet least understood traditional crafts - at an enlightening presentation by Steve Beimel of JapanCraft21.
Beimel and his team are passionately committed to revitalizing traditional Japanese arts. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about Japanese master craft textiles, from ancient history to present day.
🔗Click the link in our bio to register!🔗
Join us for a fun-filled onigiri-making event for a cause! 🍙 Together, we will make the classic Japanese rice balls in support of Onigiri Action.
Onigiri Action is an incredible program by @tablefor2_official where when we post our onigiri on social media with #OnigiriAction, Table for Two will donate a meal to a child in need!
So even if you can’t attend our event, if you make onigiri between October 7th and November 15th, be sure to post a picture on your social media with the #OnigriAction for an easy way to be a part of a great cause.
Event Details:
🗓 October 25, 10 am - 12 pm
📍 JASC Office Building - Miller Hall (1373 Grant St., Denver, Co 80203)
$3 for Members / $5 for General Public
Click the link in our bio to register!
🍁 Happy First Day of Autumn 🌰
With the transition between seasons being a time of reflection and celebration in Japan, here are a few ways you can celebrate 秋分の日, the autumn equinox, today:
💭 Personal Reflection: realign with your goals and set new intentions
💛 Family Time: reach out to a family member or friend and catch up or reconnect
🍄 Outdoor Activities: take advantage of the perfect outdoor temperature and soak in the crisp autumn air
Let us know in the comments if you did something to celebrate しゅうぶんの日🍂
#秋分の日 #autumnequinox #personalrefection #familytime #outdooractivites
Kaiwa Club is perfect for strengthening your Japanese listening and speaking skills!
🗓 The upcoming dates for October are Saturdays the 11th and 25th!
⏰ Starts at 10 am
📍 At the picnic tables in Edgewater Public Market in front of Arepas
Kaiwa Club will always be linked in our bio under the Upcoming Events 🔗
Don't miss our Kaiwa Club meetings in October! We'll see you there :)
#japaneseconversation #kaiwaclub #japaneselearner #friends
What a night at our special in-person Ouchigohan cooking class! 🍳
We were thrilled to see participants not only master a new recipe but also connect with each other. It was a truly special moment when one station started conversing in ✨Japanese✨, learning about each other’s backgrounds and sharing their passions.
A huge thank you to everyone who attended! We sincerely appreciate your patience and enthusiasm as we navigated our very first in-person cooking class. 🙏
This session was just a taste of the fun and community you can find in our Ouchigohan program. The culinary journey continues online every month, bringing together people from across the country to learn, cook, and connect. Join us for our next virtual class and become part of our growing community! 👩🍳👨🍳
#Ouchigohan #JASColorado #cookingclass #japanesefood
What an incredible day for our dragonboat team, Nichi-Bei-Go! at the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival! 🐲 After a summer of hard work and dedication, the team was able to showcase just how in sync they are. 🛶 Every stroke was a testament to their passion and teamwork, demonstrating the power of moving as one.
Nichi-Bei-Go! is more than just a dragonboat team; it's an extension of our larger JASC community. ⛩ It's a group of people passionate about Japanese culture and learning more about it. 🎉 This festival was an amazing opportunity to connect with the broader community and celebrate our shared love for the sport and our vibrant cultures.
#NichiBeiGO #coloradodragonboatfestival #CulturalExchange #teamwork #ColoradoLife
Our Ouchigohan home cooking classes are a blast all year long, and we're so excited to be the host society this month! 🍳
JASC Members~ Join us for a special in-person session and get a taste of the fun, community, and culinary skills we share throughout the year. Our Ouchigohan program is hosted by Japan America Societies nationwide, bringing Japanese cuisine directly to your kitchen every month.
Anyone can join this month's virtual session! 💻
This is your chance to learn a new recipe with friends and family, and it's the perfect introduction to our vibrant online community. We can't wait to cook with you!
🔗Click the link in our bio to register!
Our Annual Gala is just around the corner! Don't miss out on a night of celebration, good food, and great company. 🥂
The deadline to register is just one week away! Secure your spot by registering today. Link in bio! 🔗
What's it really like to learn with us? Find out in this student testimonial for our Passport to Japan classes. ✈🇯🇵
Our program focuses on building practical language skills and a deep understanding of the Japanese culture.
Inspired to begin your own journey? Our fall classes start on September 25th. Enroll today and save your spot! 🔗 Click here for more information and to register: https://www.jascolorado.org/learning-japanese
Today (September 15th) is Respect for the Aged Day in Japan 👵👴 a wonderful holiday designed to connect generations.
Can you think of a U.S holiday that is similar to this holiday? Let us know in the comments. 💬
Meet the heart of Nichi-Bei-GO! ❤️ Our latest video introduces the individuals who make our team so special and shares their favorite parts of the experience.
From the strong sense of community to continuous growth and our unwavering team spirit, discover what it truly means to be a part of our family.
Be sure to check out Nichi-Bei-GO! in action at the 🐲Colorado Dragon Boat Festival🛶 this weekend at Sloan's Lake Park. We'll see you there!
Are you seeking an opportunity to use your Japanese speaking skills? Join us for our next Kaiwa meetings this September! It's the perfect opportunity to practice your Japanese in a relaxed and friendly environment.
Mark your calendars for the next two gatherings:
🗓 Dates: Saturdays, September 13th and 27th
⏰ Time: 10 AM
📍 Location: Edgewater Public Market
This is a great chance to connect with other Japanese speakers and keep your skills sharp. Come use your Japanese with us!
For more information, visit our website linked in our bio 🔗
#kaiwaclub #kaiwa #jascolorado #japancolorado #edgewaterpublicmarket #nihongo
🍂 This fall, give yourself the gift of a new skill! 🍂
Register for our popular Passport to Japan 1 & 2 classes and start your 8-week journey into Japanese language and culture ✈⛩
These courses are designed to make learning fun and easy for everyone.
Spaces are limited and go FAST, so sign up NOW via the link in our bio! 🔗
Get ready for an evening of connection and shared vision at our annual gala, HARMONY & HORIZONS, presented by United!
We're planning an incredible night for you on ✨OCTOBER 15TH✨
Get a sneak peek at all the fun, including a Japanese-inspired Welcome Cocktail🥂, Matsuhisa catering🍣, and our lively wine toss🍾
🔗Be sure to register today by clicking here: https://www.jascolorado.org/event-calendar#!event/2025/10/15/jasc-annual-gala-2025
🎉We can't wait to celebrate with you!🎉
#HarmonyandHorizons2025 #JASCAnnualGala #JapanColoradoConnections #WelcomeCocktail #CorporateRecognition #SilentAuction #MatsuhisaCatering #WineToss #JapanTrivia
Join us for a special session focused on one of Japan's most comforting one-bowl meals, oyako donburi!🐔🥚 You'll learn to create this dish of tender chicken and sweet onions, simmered in a savory dashi-based sauce, all held together by a gently cooked egg and served over a warm bed of rice.
To complement this satisfying meal, we'll be creating a side of tangy daikon pickle. We'll also be making a refreshing bubbly matcha lassi, a drink that perfectly balances the earthy notes of matcha with the creamy tang of yogurt. 🍵
This class, led by our Japanese food expert Debra Samuels, will be offered virtually with unlimited seating.
For the first time ever, we will be hosting a special in-person session in Denver where we can accommodate up to 10 JASC Members, thanks to our incredible Investor Level Member, Inspired Functional Brands. Join us and cook alongside fellow Japanese food lovers! 👩🍳👨🍳
🌸 Date: September 13
🌸 Time: 4 PM MST (Colorado Time) / 6PM EASTERN TIME
Whether you're joining us in person or virtually, register today to learn a delicious recipe YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS! Registration available through the link in our bio 🔗
We're excited to announce major updates to our website! Be sure to check them out at www.jascolorado.org 🔗 (link in our bio!)
Our new navigation bar makes it easier than every to find what you need:
🤝 BUSINESS ~ companies and organizations can now find relevant information and resources in one place
👩🏻🏫 EDUCATION ~ learners and aspiring learners can explore programs and resources for studying Japanese both in and outside of Colorado
🗓 ANNUAL EVENTS ~ learn about the events that we host every year and mark them on your calendar
📰 NEWS ~ Stay up to date by subscribing to our community newsletter, reading out Nihongo (Japanese) Column, or checking out our Staff Updates blog
If you're a JASC Member, you'll now find:
😆 MANAGE YOUR ACCOUNT ~ easily update your profile information
💸 MEMBER DISCOUNTS ~ browse or add exclusive deals available to members
We hope this new website structure helps our community find the information they need and stay more connected with JASC than ever before.
Special thanks to our summer intern, Hanako Keney, for her work on the website. This is an ongoing project so stay tuned for new pages, information, and website visuals!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
JASCのウェブサイトリニューアルをお知らせします！
新しいナビゲーションバーで、必要な情報がこれまで以上に探しやすくなりました：
🤝Business ~ 企業や団体に関連する情報や資料を、一か所に集約しました。
👩🏻🏫Education ~ 日本語を学んでいる方、またはこれから学びたい方が、コロラド州内外での学習プログラムや教材を探すことができます。
🗓Annual Events ~ 毎年開催しているイベントを紹介しています。そのイベントをご自身のカレンダーにマークすることが可能です。
📰News ~ ニュースレターや、日本語コラム、スタッフ更新ブログを読むことにより最新情報をチェックできます。
JASC会員の皆様は、以下の機能もご利用いただけます：
😆Manage Your Account ~ ご自身の会員プロフィール情報を更新したり、住所の表示設定の管理などが可能です。
💸Member Discounts ~ 会員限定の割引リストをご覧いただけます。
この新しくなったウェブサイトにより、コミュニティの皆様にとって必要な情報が見つけやすくなり、また新しいウェブサイトがこれまで以上にJASCとのつながりを深めるきっかけとなれば幸いです。
この夏、ウェブサイトの更新にご協力くださったインターンのHanako Keneyさんに心より感謝いたします。
このウェブサイト更新プロジェクトは現在も進行中ですので、新しいページや情報、デザインの追加などをどうぞお楽しみに！
#websiteupdate #japancolorado #communitybuilding #businessresources #learnjapanese #memberbenefits #stayconnected
🎴Save the Date: October 15th, 2025!🎴
We are delighted to announce our Annual Gala, "Harmony and Horizons," as a tribute to the leaders, visionaries, companies, and organizations shaping Colorado-Japan relations.
Like cranes soaring over the Rockies, we honor the harmony of our shared history and limitless horizons of future connection.
This spectacular evening is proudly presented by @united!
Look forward to
🍽 Delectable catering by Matsuhisa
🥂 Connecting with 200+ industry leaders and Japanese business & culture enthusiasts
🎉 Bidding on exclusive items in our silent auction
SECURE YOUR SPONSORSHIP NOW and join us for a serene evening you won't want to miss!
🔗 Click the link in our bio to secure your spot! 🔗
#HarmonyandHorizons2025 #JASCAnnualGala #JapanColoradoConnections #DenverEvents
Colorado and Japan share a profound admiration for the majestic mountains that define their landscapes and shape their cultures 🗻
It's this shared passion that often draws people from our communities together, as we embrace the spirit of adventure found in our high elevations.
🥾🚵♀️⛺🏂🏼⛷
What is your favorite mountain activity? Let us know in the comments!
#mountainadventures #welovemountains #rockymountains #mountfuji
Kaiwa Club is perfect for strengthening your Japanese listening and speaking skills!
🗓 The Upcoming dates for August are Saturdays the 2nd, 16th, and 30th!
⏰ Starts at 10 am
📍 At the picnic tables in Edgewater Public Market
Kaiwa Club will always be linked in our bio under the Upcoming Events 🔗
Don't miss our Kaiwa Club meetings in August! We'll see you there ;)
#japaneseconversation #kaiwaclub #japaneselearner #friends
With schools starting this month, we wanted to make sure you knew of our Japan in the Schools program! 🏫
This FREE in-school program provides presentations about Japanese language and culture to students from Kindergarten to College.
❗Lesson topics are customizable❗
Some topics we have covered in the past include Journey through Japan, Art & Culture of Origami, Japanese Poetry (Haiku), The Japanese Aesthetic (Wabi-sabi), Anime in Japan, and more.
You can find "Japan in the Schools" in the link in our bio for more information about the program or requesting a session👩🏫
Take your children from our Colorado mountains🗻 to the land of the rising sun☀ with our Japan in the Schools program!
#japanintheschools #culturalexchange #coloradoeducation #globallearning #learnjapanese #origami #haiku #origami
We were excited to host our annual Yoyo-tsuri game🎣 and JASC info booth🪭 at the 51st annual Denver Cherry Blossom Festival!
It was great to see so many of our members, including our dragon boat team, stop by and say hi. Plus, we had a great opportunity to connect more people with our programs and resources throughout the Denver / Boulder metro community.
Thank you to our Benefactor member 🌸@sakurasquarellc🌸 for organizing this event every year!
A HUGE thank you to all of our volunteers for helping us provide a super fun festival game and promote JASC! 🎉
#sakuramatsuri #japancolorado #yoyotsuri #cherryblossomfestival
While World Ocean Day was last month on June 8th, Japan celebrates Sea Day or 海の日（umi no hi) on the third Monday of July 🌊
Though thousands of miles from any coastline, Colorado's connection to Japan runs deep, even through the ocean! We're part of one interconnected global ecosystem. A healthy ocean is vital for everyone, everywhere! Let's champion ocean stewardship together, uniting Colorado and Japan 🌏💙
#oneocean #interconnectedworld #colorado #japan
Save the Date for the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival! 🐲🛶
🗓 Dates: September 6 & 7 | Saturday and Sunday
JASC is proud to have a team compete in the annual Colorado Dragon Boat Festival as a way for our members to participate in a fun summer activity and to connect with the greater Asian-American community! 🎉
Please join us in cheering on our team and see if you would be interested in joining next season. Mark your calendars and let's Nichi-Bei-GO! 🚣♀️🚣♂️
#NichiBeiGO #paddleup #dragonboatfamily
Beyond thrilled to share highlights from the VIP Rockies vs. Dodgers game event for JASC corporate members! This special evening, made possible by a generous JASC board member, was a token of our immense appreciation for our corporate members' crucial support. Your commitment makes all the difference in advancing our mission to bridge Colorado and Japan. We loved connecting with you all! ✨
🎥A huge thank you to Keiko Ozaki and Ty Borkowski at Group Project for creating this fantastic recap video!🎥
If you're already dreaming of next year's season and potentially seeing the Dodgers (and maybe a certain superstar 😁) play live with our group, drop a ⚾️ below!
#ThankYouForYourSupport #RockiesVsDodgers #ColoradoJapanBridge #CommunityBuilding
Whether you're a regular attendee of our Kaiwa Club or have been planning on joining, mark your calendar with the upcoming dates for July!
🗓 Dates: Saturdays, July 5th & 19th
⏰ Time: 10 am
📍 Location: Edgewater Public Market
We meet every other Saturday as a place for native and non-native Japanese speakers to use their language skills in a relaxed space.
Kaiwa Club information can ALWAYS be found on our website 🔗 www.jascolorado.org
We understand that if you don't use it, you lose it, so come use your Japanese with us!
#kaiwaclub #kaiwa #jascolorado #japancolorado #jasco #edgewatercolorado #edgewaterpublicmarket #nihongo
🌟 Tanabata is the day of the star festival a.k.a. 星祭り（hoshimatsuri) 🌟
It is celebrated by writing wishes on thin strips of paper and hanging them outside one's homes and in public places 🎋
The writing of wishes is connected to the legend of Tanabata because the star, Orihime, wished to be with her lover, Hikoboshi. Because of her persistent wishing, Orihime and Hikoboshi are allowed to meet on the 7th day of the 7th month 👩❤️👨
To learn more about the legend of Tanabata, check out our short explanation in the slides above!
The celebration of Tanabata is about:
🌠The power of a wish
💛The energy of love
🌌A bridge to the celestial world
Let us know in the comments what wish you would write on your paper for Tanabata!
#starfesitval #japaneseculture #wishuponastar #tanabata
Last week, we had a 🍶VIP Sake Dinner🍶 for JASC corporate members to say thank you for their continued support in our mission and programs!
Special thank you to @ramenstardenver and Chef Tamai for hosting, to Allison Elliott of @ecorpinc for donating all the sake we enjoyed ... and teaching us so much about why we enjoy it, to Consul General of Japan in Denver Hiroyuki Okajima for taking the time to join us, and especially to our JASC corporate members for your commitment that empowers us to bridge cultures.
In Denver Metro Area, we're lucky to have authentic Japanese food like this. Let us know in the comments if you have a Japanese restaurant recommendation!🍣
Learn how to make Yakisoba (noodle stir fry), Takoyaki (fried octopus), and 🍓strawberry🍓 Kakigori (shaved ice) with our sister organization in Washington D.C. @jaswdc 😋
🗓 Date: July 19th
⏰ Time: 3:00 pm (MDT)
📍 Location: Online via Zoom!
$10 for members
$15 for non-members
🔗 Click the link in our bio to register!
Even if you can't attend the Zoom cooking class, anyone who registers will still receive the recipe that you can use at your convenience!
Check out the Ouchigohan program and collect home-cooked Japanese recipes! 👩🍳
#ouchigohan #homecooking #yakisoba #takoyaki #strawberrykakigori #japanesefood #japaneserecipes
Konnichiwa! 👋 Always wanted to learn Japanese, especially for a trip? Our Passport to Japan 1 class is designed just for you! Dive into fun, conversational learning that's perfect for first-time travelers. Summer 2025 registration is OPEN ~ let's learn together!
Class starts July 10th! Click the link in our bio to register 🔗
#Japanese #LanguageLearners #TriptoJapan #Nihongo
What's better than delicious Japanese home cooking? Sharing it with the ones you love! 🫶
Our Ouchigohan program is all about bringing people together, even from across the nation, and we've got something exciting brewing to take it to the next level in Colorado 🍚
Think GOOD food, GREAT company, and UNFORGETABLE memories, just like these tasty moments with our JASC staff & friends!
Stay tuned for our upcoming home cooking classes & gather Japanese recipes with friends & family for whatever you're craving 😋
#Ouchigohan #FamilyFun #FriendsWhoCook
Congratulations to all 2025 graduates! Everyone is so proud of your accomplishments. The JASC team wishes you all the best on your next adventure!
#卒業おめでとう #Classof2025 #Congrats
What an incredible day for a cause! ⛳️🏌♀️
We're still buzzing from the success of our 2025 Colorado-Japan Charity Golf Tournament!
A massive THANK YOU to Presenting Sponsor @united, every participant, all of the other generous sponsors & donors, and our dedicated volunteers who made this event unforgettable. Thanks to your incredible support, we raised important funding for the ✨️Japanese educational programs✨️ provided by JASC and Japanese Business Association of the Rockies.
It was a day filled with friendly competition🏆, beautiful weather☀️, and wonderful connections between our Colorado and Japan communities🤝. We hope you enjoyed the camaraderie as much as we did!
Relive the highlights! 🎥 Check out this recap video and comment what your favorite part of the tournament was. See you on the green in 2026!
#COJapanGolf2025 #CharityGolf #CommunityImpact #ThankYou
Don't miss your chance to win a trip to Japan! ✈
When you join our raffle, you have the chance to win 2 round-trip ticket to Japan or anywhere else in the world United flies 🌏 OR incredible stays at Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort ♨ OR a gift card for car-care at Big O Tires! 🚗 Thank you to our sponsors @united, @mtprinceton, and @sumitomocorpofamericas for donating these epic prizes!
All proceeds are used for the Japanese education programs of JASC. Click the link in our bio to learn more about our programs!
When you buy a raffle ticket, you can know that your money is going to a great cause and you have a chance to win big! BUY A TICKET NOW! 🎟
Raffle License Number: 2025-20218
#triptojapan #hotspringstay #carcare #epicprizes #raffle #supportourmission
🌸 JASC will be at the 51st Annual Denver Cherry Blossom Festival hosted by our awesome Benefactor Member, @sakurasquarellc! 🌸
Every year, our organization brings a fun festival activity that is enjoyed by many Japanese children at festivals year-round! That's right, yoyo tsuri! 🎣
Come check out our booth or help us make kids' days as a volunteer!
Do you know how long JASC has been doing this fishing game? 🧐Hint: you can find the answer in our feed.
If you find the answer, let us know in the comments! Then, we'll see you at the Denver Cherry Blossom Festival 🌸
#sakuramatsuri #Denver #japancolorado #yoyotsuri #cherryblossomfestival #🌸
Do you hate doing the dishes after dinner? Join us and our friends at our sister organization in Boston to make a one pan meal!
🗓Date: June 7th
⏰Time: 3:00 p.m. (MDT)
📍 Location: Online via Zoom!
$10 for members
$15 for non-members
🔗Click the link in our bio to register!
Check out our Ouchigohan program for an easy Japanese recipe for days that you only want to wash one pan and your plate!
#ouchigohan #homecooking #onepanmeal #japanesecookingclass #japancolorado
A most magical week at JASC... Japanese Kite Festival Week 🪁
The week that we all get to feel like a kid again!
From Wednesday afternoon to Sunday afternoon, we were putting our screens away, creating cultural art, and spending time in the beautiful Colorado spring weather ☀️
Thank you to @adcoparks for hosting us at the stunning Rotella Park for us to fly our handmade kites.
Thank you to Kite Masters Mikio and Asami Toki for the time, care, and preparation they put into this event every year.
If you were at any of the events this week, let us know in the comments which kite you made! 🚀🦋
If you weren't able to join us this year, we hope to see you at next year's festival 😄
#jasc #japancolorado #kitemaking #kiteflying #kitefestival #edokites #kitemaster #festivalfun
Do you prefer sweet or savory food? 🍪🍗 Does it depend on the day? At this month's Ouchigohan, learn to make different types of Sando (Sandwiches) to satisfy whatever you're craving!
These sandwiches are not what you would typically imagine. #Sando is the Japanese take on sandwiches, and they are a must-try! So, join us and our sister organization in Philadelphia and spice up your packed lunch 🍞
🗓 Date: May 16th
⏰ Time: 4:00 p.m. (MDT)
📍 Location: Online via Zoom!
$10 for members
$15 for non-members
🔗Click the link in our bio to register!
See you at the Super Sando Special!
#ouchigohan #supersando #sandwichlover #japancolorado #japanesecooking #japaneserecipe #cookingtogether
✨ We are very excited to offer a truly unique Japanese culture experience for you all this Saturday, May 17th! ✨
Once again, we welcome Japanese artist and Edo Kite Master Mikio Toki to Colorado from Tokyo. He will lead the community in making a beautiful, traditional Japanese kite. Materials are being brought from Japan, ✈ including washi paper, hand-cut bamboo, and shibori-style dyes. Toki Sensei will walk you through the steps to making your own Japanese kite ... and then you'll go outside and fly them together! 🪁
🗓Date: May 17th
☝Workshop 1: 11:30 am - 1:30 pm
✌Workshop 2: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
📍Location: Anythink Library Perl Mack (7611 Hilltop Circle, Denver, CO 80221)
This is a wonderful program for anyone ages 12 and up. Children should be accompanied by an adult who can assist. The steps are a bit intricate, so it can be tough for little hands. Little ones can join us in the park on Sunday to make a much simpler kite to fly!
🔗 Please click the link in our bio and register today!
😊We hope to see you this weekend for this very special cultural experience😊
Have you bought your raffle ticket yet? 🎟
Don't miss your chance to win 2 round-trip tickets to Japan or anywhere in the world United flies ... along with incredible stays at Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort and a gift card for car-care at Big O Tires! ✈ Thanks to sponsorships from @united, @mtprinceton, and @sumitomocorpofamericas.
All proceeds are used for the Japanese education programs of JASC which include:
✏️ Study abroad scholarships
🗣 Japanese language classes
🏆 Japan Cup
🏫 Japan in the Schools
It's a win-win situation!
Click the link in our bio to enter our raffle...
or buy tickets from any of our JASC board members.
Join our raffle to support a great cause and for a chance to win big! 🎉
#japaneseeducation #japancolorado #winbig #joinourraffle #triptojapan #prizes
Raffle License Number: 2025-20218
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