In the heart of December, JASC and the JET Alumni Association of the Rocky Mountains (JETAARM) joined forces to host a delightful Nengajo workshop. The event aimed to explore the rich cultural tradition of crafting Japanese New Year’s postcards, known as 年賀状 “Nengajo.”

Yuka Hicks kicked off the workshop with an insightful introduction to the significance of Nengajo in Japanese culture. Participants learned the age-old tradition of sending these special cards to convey good wishes and gratitude for the past year, as well as hopes for the upcoming one. The art of Nengajo, it seems, is not just about aesthetics; it’s a heartfelt gesture deeply rooted in the spirit of the community and connection.

As the participants immersed themselves in the cultural narrative, they discovered the intricacies of Nengajo’s creation. The workshop featured various art stations, each offering a unique avenue for self-expression. The drawing station allowed participants to unleash their creativity on blank postcards, bringing personal interpretations of the festive season to life.

For those inclined towards a more fluid and vibrant approach, the watercoloring station beckoned. Here, attendees experimented with a kaleidoscope of colors, creating visually stunning Nengajo that reflected the beauty of individual perspectives.

The stamping station became a canvas of creativity, showcasing the exquisite craftmanship of JETAARM members who carved intricate dragon and New Year motifs. These bespoke stamps, symbols of strength and good fortune, added a touch of traditional charm to participants’ Nengajo creations.

At the calligraphy station, participants participants delved into the art of elegant writing. Brush pen in hand, they carefully crafted New Year’s greetings and well wishes in Japanese characters.

The atmosphere at the workshop was nothing short of festive and familial. Laughter and conversation filled the air as individuals of all ages, from children to adults, shared stories, tips, and techniques. The collaborative spirit between JASC and JETAARM fostered an environment where cultural exchange flourished, and the joy of creating something meaningful brought everyone together.

JASC recently celebrated a huge success with their "Onigiri Onegai" event, where more than 50 enthusiastic participants gathered to learn the art of making onigiri, all while supporting a meaningful cause. This collaborative effort, hosted by JASC and The JET Alumni Association of the Rocky Mountains (JETRAARM), was not only a culinary adventure but also a heartfelt endeavor to make a positive impact on a global scale.

The event's primary purpose was to support Table for Two's Onigiri Action campaign. This initiative revolves around a simple yet impactful idea – for every social media post featuring a photo of an onigiri with the hashtag #onigiriaction, Table for Two pledges to provide a nutritious school meal to children in need worldwide. JASC and JETAARM embraced this campaign as an opportunity to not only indulge in the joy of making onigiri but also to contribute to a cause that resonates with the community.

The success of the Onigiri Onegai event can be attributed to the planning and execution by the organizing teams. Gathering ingredients became a community effort, with participants and volunteers alike contributing to the process by sourcing fresh and authentic supplies from Pacific Mercantile, a local Japanese and Asian store. This collaborative spirit set the tone for the entire event, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

Pacific Mercantile and JASC, and JETAARM staff buying items for the Onigiri Onegai

Volunteers played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth flow of the event. From guiding participants through the intricacies of onigiri crafting to assisting in the organization of the venue, their dedication added an extra layer of warmth to the gathering.

The overwhelming success of the Onigiri Onegai event has left the organizers, volunteers and participants inspired and motivated. With the genuine enjoyment and support witnessed this year, JASC and JETAARM express their eagerness to host this event again next year. They envision it as an annual tradition that not only brings people together through the joy of food but also continues to make a positive impact on the lives of children around the world.

Last week, we had the delightful opportunity to meet with officials from Yamanouchi town, Japan, as they get to know more about their sister city, Vail, Colorado.

The purpose of their visit was not only to strengthen the bonds of friendship but also to share and invite us to experience the cultural treasures of Yamanouchi Town.

Snow Monkey Park (地獄谷野猿公苑)

Yamanouchi town is in Nagano prefecture. They have a world-renowned snow monkeys. These beautiful creatures, known officially as Japanese macaques, often seen bathing in natural hot springs. These captivating creatures, with their thick fur coats and expressive eyes, draw thousands of visitors each year, making it a must-see destination. The sight of these animals, undisturbed in their natural habitat, serves as a gentle reminder of nature’s wonders.

While Vail and Yamanouchi town may be thousands of miles apart from each other, it was evident from our discussion that there is a deep-seated appreciation for natural beauty, culture and community in both regions. We are thrilled about the possibility of more folks from Colorado visiting Yamanouchi town to see the snow monkeys and partake in the town’s rich heritage.

Stay tuned for more updates!

We’re still gathering information from our friends from Yamanouchi town, and we will share more insights, stories, and travel tips with you! Stay tuned for more updates on Yamanouchi town and the enchanting world of snow monkeys!

Here’s to global friendships and the anticipation of new journeys ahead!